As a professional wedding and engagement photographer, spring in Missoula is one of my favorite times of year. When planning Katerina and Evan’s engagement session at Lincolnwood Trailhead, a new location shooting for me, I was genuinely excited. I had worked with Katerina a few years ago during a boudoir mini session, and she had mentioned she was engaged at the time. When she reached out more recently to ask about wedding photography, I couldn’t have been happier.
With rain in the forecast the day of their engagement session, we were all pleasantly surprised when the rain cleared and the sun came out just before we ventured out into the woods. We even had a surprise owl sighting that evening! If you need spring engagement pictures in Western Montana, I’d love to connect and plan a unique session with you as well!
Katerina and Evan’s Love Story Started at a Halloween Party
Katerina and Evan first met when a mutual friend had been trying to set them up. Timing had been tricky until one Halloween night when Kat showed up dressed up after a Rocky Horror screening, and Evan was stunned speechless. A dare led to their first kiss, and from there, they stayed up all night talking. When he got home the next morning, Even texted his dad, convinced he’d just met “the one.” ❤️
Choosing Lincolnwood Trailhead for Their Engagement Pictures
Evan picked the Lincolnwood Trailhead in Missoula for their engagement session. I hadn’t shot there before, but ended up loving it due to the beautiful forest setting, access to the Rattlesnake Creek, and cool suspension footbridge. As mentioned above, we even spotted a huge owl nest high up in one of the trees with three baby owlets inside!
Spring Vibes: Floral Dress, Vintage Curls & a Custom Umbrella
Katerina wore a pretty floral dress with vintage pin-up curls and bold red lipstick. Evan kept it classy in blue jeans and a blazer. Together, they looked great — casual, stylish, and totally themselves.
Kat also brought along a darling umbrella that she and her mom had made together — a beautiful, functional piece of art. Even though we didn’t end up needing it for rain, we used it for some fun and playful shots — twirling, leaning in close, and adding a splash of color to the scenery.
Capturing Their Dynamic: Lighthearted, Candid, and Full of Love
Believe it or not, this was Katerina and Evan’s first professional photoshoot together! Katerina is outgoing and expressive, while Evan is more reserved, but their personalities balance each other out perfectly. We kept things light and fun — lots of walking, kissing, twirling, dipping, and just enjoying being together. One moment that stuck with me was when I had them do a “try to get away” pose. Kat joked beforehand that if Evan really held on, she wouldn’t be able to move at all. Sure enough, he held her so tightly at first she could barely move, and it got some great laughs I was able to capture on camera.
Why Engagement Sessions Matter
Like a lot of couples, Katerina and Evan just wanted engagement photos that felt natural — not selfies or posed phone pics, but real images that show who they are as a couple. Evan had also been wanting a nice photo of he and Kat together for his desk at work, and now he finally has several to choose from. Engagement photos are not only great “practice” prior to wedding day — they’re actually a celebration and really beautiful testament to this special time in a couple’s life journey together.
Testimonial From the Couple ❤️
“We love working with Carin. She keeps you talking and laughing and makes the shoot feel more like having fun with a friend than trying to turn yourself into a professional model.” -Katerina
FAQs About Spring Engagement Pictures in Missoula
1. What should we wear for spring engagement photos in Missoula?
Wear something that feels like you. Light layers, vibrant colors, and outfits you’re comfortable moving in all work great this time of year. Coordinate color palettes with your partner, don’t try to match. Dresses that move with the wind, jeans with a tailored blazer, and accessories like scarves and hats can all add personality. Just be prepared for Montana’s unpredictable weather.
2. Is Lincolnwood Trailhead a good photo location?
Most definitely! It’s a hidden gem with mix of forest, trails, and water, plus some unique elements like the suspension footbridge and possible wildlife sightings. It’s quiet, scenic, and very peaceful.
3. What if the weather’s unpredictable?
That’s spring in Montana! I always recommend being prepared with a backup layer, umbrella, or even boots just in case. Some of the best photos come from unexpected weather, but not to worry — we can always reschedule if the forecast looks bad.
4. Should we bring props?
Absolutely — if they’re meaningful or fun. Props can help tell your story and give you something to interact with, which often leads to more natural looking photos. Kat’s handmade umbrella was a great example. Other great ideas include picnic blankets, books, or even your four-legged BFF!
5. Should we get professional hair and makeup for our engagement shoot?
It can make a big difference in photos! Katerina had her makeup done professionally at Skin Chic in downtown Missoula and it really enhanced her natural beauty. It can also help you feel more confident on camera, but it is by no means necessary.
If you’re planning engagement photos in Missoula or anywhere in Western Montana, I’d love to help you create something that feels like you — relaxed, personal, and meaningful. Reach out today to inquire!
Want to see more engagement session photos? Check out these fall and winter engagement sessions at the Blue Mountain Trailhead in Missoula, MT!
