There is nothing more exciting and fun then meeting and photographing  a couple like Casey and Jack! They had their engagement session at beautiful Waywayanda State Park in New York and Jack brought his boat! It was just magical, floating around the lake and photographing them on the boat and the surrounding areas in the State Park. These two are so cute together and I loved that we were able to incorporate their love for the outdoors into their session!

 

Casey and Jack met in high school at Pearl River High School in their junior year. Soon after, they started dating as seniors. They are fairly certain that their first date was at the movies, although they don’t quite remember…but I think all high school first dates are at the movies, right? 😉

 

They both love live music and the outdoors – and of course, a cozy night at home hanging and watching a movie! They said their perfect date is some really good food, drinks, and music! Their passion for the outdoors and love for one another was so clear during their session. When I asked them what they loved most about each other, Jack said he loves how much she cares about her family and friends – and her great sense of humor. Casey said she loves how patient and understanding Jack is – and how he is such a great listener.

 

They got engaged in CROATIA on top of a mountain during a trip to Croatia and Prague. They took a cable car to the top of the mountain where there was a restaurant and bar. With the sun setting in the background, Jack proposed on the top of the mountain overlooking the beautiful countryside of Croatia! What a dreamy proposal, I can only imagine what the views looked like from up there!

 

This shoot was nothing short of an adventure! The boats motor broke right before the shoot so Jack and Casey had to row the boat to all the areas of the lake we wanted to go. But, it made for great photos! I have to admit, I was terrified during the shoot that one of them (or I) would fall into the lake with all my equipment every time we had to step out of it onto shore! Fortunately, Casey and Jack were both so confident and champs who were up for any poses or locations I suggested- and, none of us fell in :).

 

After paddling to one of the islands on the lake, they dropped me on land so I didn’t fall into the lake with all my equipment. They were able to relax together on the boat while I captured their love under the beautiful golden glow of the sun! After taking some pictures on the boat, we wandered to a path in the woods before heading back to the docks as the sun was setting for an outfit change and that golden hour light (DREAMY).

 

After one last outfit change, we decided to take a few pictures in a different area of the park, and found a quiet road with some dreamy light as the backdrop.  Where most people see a road, I see beautiful things happening. I was IN LOVE with Casey’s body suit during this portion of the session, and totally want to snag one for myself!

Oh and the ring! I just LOVE her rose gold ring and the pictures we got of it! It was a team effort to get the ring shot on her pant leg because I was determined to use the fabric as the backdrop. A special thanks to Casey for staying still and Jack for helping me set the scene!

 

They will be getting married at Red Tail Lodge at Mountain Creek – the venue I helped design way back when I was a design major in college! I cannot wait to finally take some mountaintop bride and groom portraits there – especially with Casey and Jack. It’s a dream!

 

Thank you to Casey and Jack for taking me out for the day and allowing me to explore around the lake with you! I am looking forward to capturing more of your love story on your upcoming big day, and know you two are destined for so much happiness in the decades to come!