Columbia River Gorge Engagement Photos | Matt & Emily’s Golden Hour Session

Washington Engagement Photographer

There are few places that make my heart skip the way the Columbia River Gorge does–especially when the light hits just right during golden hour. This spot is hands down one of my favorite places to photograph couples, and getting to share it with people like Matt and Emily for their engagement photos? Just absolutely magical.

These two have been together since 2018, and when you’re around them, you can feel the kind of love that’s quiet and steady, the kind that feels like home. They’re naturally introverted, incredibly thoughtful, and most at peace when they’re curled up with their three cats or enjoying a slow evening at the beach with wine in hand.

When I asked them how they wanted these photos to feel years from now, they said:

“When looking back at these photos I would hope to feel all the love and excitement that we share just being with one another, especially before going into this next chapter. I think that we share a really special bond, and I would like to reflect that through these photos. We love to make each other laugh, be close to each other, and just be in our own little world.”

That’s exactly what we set out to capture with their Columbia River Gorge engagement photos.

Slowing Down in the Columbia River Gorge

The Gorge is one of those places that does half the work for us–it’s wild and quiet, dramatic and soft, all at once. We found ourselves tucked into one of my favorite corners of the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge, just as the sun started to dip and everything turned gold. It was the kind of light that wraps around you like a hug, and it couldn’t have been more perfect for Matt and Emily’s engagement photos.

They moved together with ease, laughing quietly, pulling each other close, falling into that bubble that couples like them seem to live in–a world that belongs just to the two of them. I just got to be the lucky one to document it!

Their Proposal Story

Their engagement story is as quiet and tender as their love.

While on a cruise off the coast of Florida, Matt and Emily spent a peaceful evening out on the deck of their cabin. Just the two of them–sipping drinks, stargazing, soaking in the stillness of the ocean around them. And in that slow, sacred moment, Matt asked Emily to spend forever together.

The proposal wasn’t flashy or elaborate… but it was honest, deeply personal, and perfectly them.

A Love Full of Depth (and Bonfires)

One of my favorite stories they shared was from a weekend trip to Long Beach, Washington. Matt had surprised Emily with the coziest cottage rental and a beach bonfire package. They spent the evening with wine, s’mores, music, and Matt showing off his axe skills while building the fire (which I’m told was very impressive 😄). They stayed out late under the stars, talking about everything; how they grew up, what they wanted from life, and how they could continue growing together. This was one of those days that just clicks–full of laughter, warmth, and that deeper kind of love that only grows over time.

Looking Ahead to Their Intimate Wedding

Matt and Emily have invited me to document their wedding next year at Vintage Gardens Rustic Events in Ridgefield, and I already know it’s going to be one of those days that feels like a warm exhale. They’re planning an intimate celebration centered on candid moments and quality time with family–exactly the kind of intentional, heart-forward wedding that I absolutely live for.

Your Washington Engagement Photographer

If you’re dreaming of Columbia River Gorge engagement photos, just like these two, I’d love to take you to this dreamy corner of the Pacific Northwest to create something honest and beautiful for you too. Whether you’re adventuring through the Gorge or curled up somewhere quiet together, I’m all about capturing the moments that feel most you. Reach out here and let’s start planning your own golden hour magic.

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