Fall engagement photos are at the top of the list for must haves for any new couple. Couples flock to Asheville North Carolina, or pretty much anywhere else in the Blue Ridge or Smokey Mountains of Western NC/Tennessee. Why? COLOR!
Late September mountain summits along with a few select valleys start to change into a kaleidoscope of fall foliage amazement shaped by Mother Nature. Orange, yellow, red accent the tall evergreen trees of the high country. It is hands down my favorite time to be in the Carolina’s. Growing up it was a family tradition to pack up the car, and drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway looking at all of the colors. Now I share that with couples who have a sense of adventure, and are some of the most memorable experiences with each photo shoot each year. Golden hour brings on a whole new idea here!
Meghan and John Mark share many things in common. Meghan lies to John Mark about short hikes that turn into 14 mile hikes. Meghan says its just a stroll. They both are doctors, they both save lives, and they both love each other. Meghan contacted me about my fall adventure photoshoot, and shared that she wanted to incorporate some trails and color with their engagement photos. Their timing couldnt of been better for their session. It was the beginning of peak fall foliage, so talk about a great opportunity!.
If you google Graveyard Fields you will see that couples have been taking engagement and elopement photos with their photographer in this area for years. Its an easy place to park, walk down a short easy path, and get some cool photos with color and a waterfall. What you don’t see, is couples using the ENTIRE area for their photos, and heading off on some of the trails for a better canvas. Thankfully, Meghan and John Mark where up to the task, and we elevated their photo shoot!
We set off on an afternoon photo shoot of hiking, crossing streams, finding private cascading waterfalls. The colors were the most robust on the higher areas of the Shining Rock Wilderness, so that is where we went.
After spending many hours running around taking photos, we decided to head over to the Sam Knob area for a change of outfits and scenery. It was nearing sunset and golden hour which gave us a few options being so close to Black Balsam Knob environment as well. Thats a great location of sunset wedding or engagement photos, if you dont mind about a 1.5 mile round trip hike.
We headed out into an open field which gave us a commanding view of the Pisgah National Forest, and the beginning of Shining Rock Wilderness. If you ever have a few days to camp, I highly recommend this area. Its one of my favorites and I hike here often to take personal photos.
As the sun was setting a fog started to roll in. This had been a trend that entire week, and this seemed to be the grand finale. Fog so thick you could not see more than about 10-15 in front of the camera. It choked out our sunset, so we had to improvise.
Meghan pulled a bottle of champagne out of nowhere, and we decided to have some fun! I. By the end of the day everyone was comfortable, and the photos showed who these two are as couple. Fun and loving!
Engagement session rock! I’m looking for adventurous couples who are looking for an immersive adventure experiences! From the mountains to the coast and ever city in between! I am happy to help you find the perfect place, and I promise you we’ll have an epic adventure…and some laughs on the way. Fill out the contact form, and let’s chat!
