I love when couples bring their own ideas to an engagement session and let me run with them. Leah and Kyle are the perfect example of this. They adore spending their summers on the lake, soaking up the sun, fresh air and gorgeous sunsets from the comfort of their boat. Naturally, when it came time for their engagement photos, their boat became the setting, offering a personal and authentic backdrop. It was the perfect way to capture who they are today and what they love to do together.
It was awesome having something so special to their relationship be the anchor (boat pun intended!) for the entire session. Their boat wasn’t just a prop; it was a reflection of their shared love for the water, a place where they've made countless memories. When couples choose a setting that holds sentimental value, the photos tend to feel more natural and genuine. This was exactly the case for Leah and Kyle. Every shot had a sense of ease and intimacy because they were in their element, doing what they loved most—together.
Planning the logistics of a session like this was a fun collaboration. We talked through everything—where we could dock, where to drop anchor, and how to make the most of the space on the boat. Since boats have limited room to move around, I also had to get creative about how to frame shots, especially with their corgi, Archie, on board too! Plus, the big question: were they game to jump into the water? They both said, “Hell yeah!”
Their adventurous spirit shone through in every part of the session, from splashing around in the lake to cuddling up on the boat deck.
Engagement Session on a boat created a fun challenge
As a photographer, working within the confines of the boat presented a unique and exciting challenge. Normally, I love incorporating lots of movement into my sessions—encouraging couples to explore their environment, walk, run and get playful. But with the boat's limited space, movement was more constrained. I had to focus on finding fresh ways to tell Leah and Kyle's story through the subtle shifts in their body language and interactions with the boat and water. The changing light as the sun began to set gave the whole session a warm, golden glow, adding to the romance of the moment.
It was a joy capturing these two in such a meaningful setting. Their boat, and the lake itself, became more than just a backdrop—it became a character in their love story. For Leah and Kyle, the water is where they feel most at home, and their engagement photos reflect that sense of comfort and joy. By the end of the session, I had no doubt that these photos would hold a special place in their hearts, just like their time on the lake.
If you're planning your engagement session, I encourage you to think about what makes your relationship unique. Whether it's a favourite activity or a beloved spot, choosing a location that means something to you can turn a beautiful photo into a cherished memory.
