I’ve known Reid, Jenny, and their goofy labradoodle Bohdie for about three years now, and so I was absolutely STOKED when they said they wanted to have an adventurous engagement session up at Palomar Mountain. I’m always amazed at how many wildly different landscapes and gorgeous locations are in Southern California. Can you believe this one was just an hour outside of San Diego?!

Most people know Palomar Mountain for the Hale Telescope at the Observatory, but we chose to find somewhere a little more off the beaten path for their engagement session. Late on a Sunday afternoon in January, we drove up to Doane Pond, and it–was–COLD! I gave them plenty of action filled prompts to keep them moving and they were such champs about being in the freezing cold weather. Bohdi also found the BIGGEST stick of all time and my heart could not take how overjoyed his face was (scroll to the end to see what I mean).

One thing (of many) that I love about Reid and Jenny is that they have a relationship built on such a deep love and respect for one another. It was such a privilege to get to document that for them and so much fun to see their fun goofy side come out during their session.

Easily the number one thing I love about couples sessions is the chance to see those real, raw, genuine moments come out between two people. I have had the privilege of being close friends with several of the couples that I’ve done sessions with, and each time I am still totally shocked when I see whole new sides of people that usually come out only when they’re just with their person.

Right before the sun set, we headed out and made it just in time to one of the overlooks on our way back. Beautiful vibrant colors reflected off of the clouds, and I was struck by how freaking grateful I am to get to do what I do.

Beautiful day. Beautiful people (inside and out).

Would you be down to have an adventurous photo session up in the mountains? Slide into my inbox and let’s plan something!