Introduction

As a Smith Mountain Lake based wedding and couples photographer, I’d dreamed of doing more sessions right by the water. Elizabeth and Griffin’s engagement session set my heart ablaze with colorful blues, show stopping outfits, and an ending that really made a splash! When Elizabeth inquired with me, I was so excited to learn that she found my business card on the bulletin board of the beloved local Smith Mountain Lake Coffee House!

“I thought to myself hm need to remember her name – little did I know I was actually getting engaged that night!!”

The Location

Elizabeth noted that she and Griffin desperately wanted to take engagement photos at Smith Mountain Lake or in the surrounding area. As I began to research some fun spots we could go to, she expressed interest in either the Claytor Nature Center in Bedford, or the backyard beach area of a family home. After researching and discussing the details of both locations, we decided their family home would be best. I would still love to capture an engagement session at the Nature Center though, so if you are interested in having your photos taken there please contact me here. Travel fees will be waived if you book with me! 

It makes me so happy when couples incorporate somewhere that is important to them as a couple in their engagement sessions; whether it be where they met, a favorite date spot, or a childhood backyard. This little hideaway gave me all the lakeside Airbnb vibes, with boat docks, beautiful green grass, delightfully full trees, and a small beach with soft sand that melted between your toes. This location provided such a variety of scenery for some gorgeous photos. 

Outfit Ideas for your Smith Mountain Lake Engagement Session

When Elizabeth sent me her outfit ideas prior to their session with me, I think my jaw literally dropped to the floor. She came fully prepared with a document piecing together outfit inspiration for both her and Griffin (we love a type A bride), and I couldn’t even begin to pick which outfit looked best. Luckily my couples and engagement sessions include an outfit change, so we chose both! 

For their first outfit, Elizabeth paired this stunning white cutout two piece from Petal + Pup with Griffin’s dark blue polo and beige chino pants. We chose some romantic poses and prompts to compliment this attire. I asked them to slow down and take in the scenery, breathe in the fresh air, hold each other close, and enjoy this moment together as a couple. We cracked jokes, talked about their future together, and strolled the beach before they changed into their second outfits. Elizabeth styled this lovely tie shoulder midi dress from Francescas with Griffin’s earthy blue tee and khaki shorts. 

After their outfit change, we took photos on their backyard dock before frolicking through the open field on our way to the beach. Here’s where the fun began… Prior to their engagement session, I mentioned the possibility of Elizabeth and Griffin hopping into the water at the end of their session, and they were 1000% into it. They were so into it, in fact, that after some playful running and splashing at the beach, they decided to jump off the dock and fully submerge themselves in the gorgeous blue lake water!!! It was a last minute decision that took Griffin some convincing, but it was so worth it! I’m so happy that I was asked to capture such precious memories for these two, these photos truly show the joy and excitement that comes with being engaged to your partner. I can’t wait for them to get married next year!!

Kind words

“She captured our love in a way that was so authentically us.”

“Megan is truly a gem. Not only is she incredibly talented, but she is so kind and fun to work with. My fiancé and I are not people who take a ton of photos, and she made us feel at ease the entire evening. We could not be happier with our engagement gallery. She captured our love in a way that was so authentically us. She was so communicative throughout the entire process, and it was so fun to brainstorm shot and outfit ideas ahead of time with her. Run, don’t walk, to book her!!” – Elizabeth

If you’re looking for a photographer for your Smith Mountain Lake engagement session you can contact me here and find more of my work here!