Chattanooga engagement photographer Archives

March 2, 2021 — Comments are off for this post.

5 Unique Unity Ceremony Ideas

Looking for a way to give your wedding ceremony a personal touch? Try one of these unique unity ceremony ideas!

Traditionally, this is the part of the wedding ceremony in which the couple perform a ceremony symbolizing their unity and the tying together of two families. It's sometimes based in religion, but not always! Throughout my time as a wedding photographer, I've capture tons of unique unity ceremonies, both religious and not.

Here are a few of my favorite unique wedding ceremony ideas I've come across. Use them as inspiration for your own ceremony!

My Favorite Unique Unity Ceremony Ideas

1. Plant a tree.

For a unity ceremony with a natural touch, plant a tree! During this unity ceremony, the couple work together to plant a sapling (or another kind of plant) in a pot and surround it with soil. When you're done, you can say 'I do' before your tree, and if you have a green thumb, you can enjoy your tree for years to come! Plant it in your yard, watch it grow, and who knows? Maybe your grandchildren will get to play underneath it one day.

2. Light a unity candle.

The unity candle has been around for a while, but that doesn't mean you can't put your own unique spin on it! One of my couples used a blue candle they'd inherited from the groom's grandparents, who only lit the candle once a year on their anniversary. The bride and groom lit this unity candle for their wedding ceremony, and they plan to keep the tradition alive on their own anniversary.

If you don't have a family heirloom, use your unity candle to start a new tradition! You can commission a custom unity candle from a small business or go with one from your favorite local shop. Don't be afraid to take a long-standing wedding tradition and make it your own!

3. Tie knots.

This unity ceremony idea takes the collaboration of the unity candle and turns it into a unique piece of art you can keep forever. In this ceremony, the couple braids ropes or ties a knot together, symbolizing the coming together of two people and two families to create a strong bond.

This unity ceremony actually stems from a Bible verse, Ecclesiastes 4:12, "A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." But I've seen non-religious couples put their own spin on it! If you're a couple of adventure seekers, tie a knot with rock climbing rope. If you enjoy boating, tie a sailing knot. No matter how you do it, physically 'tying the knot' is a beautiful representation of the bond you've created in your marriage.

4. Have a ring warming ceremony.

This unity ceremony is a great way to get your loved ones involved in the ceremony. The officiant introduces the ring warming ceremony, and then the couple's wedding bands are passed through the crowd (either tied together, in a mesh bag, or in a box). Everyone in attendance gets a moment to silently 'bless' the rings in their own way. They might say a prayer, think encouraging thoughts, or just send good vibes. Then, when everyone's had their turn, the couple exchanges their rings, now warmed by the love of their family and friends.

A word of warning, though: at a large wedding, the ring warming ceremony can take a long time. Be sure you have music queued up for this part of the ceremony!

5. Take a shot together!

Want to keep things fun at your wedding? Take a shot with your partner! Pick your favorite liquor, pour each other a shot (or offer shots to all your guests), and knock one back! It doesn't get any more fun than that!

Thank you so much for reading about my favorite unique ceremony ideas! I hope you found something that will work for your own ceremony.

There are a million ways to make your wedding ceremony your own. If you're looking for ideas, check out my blog for past weddings I've had the honor to shoot. If you're still not sure how to plan a unique wedding ceremony, just ask! I love helping my couples explore ways to make their weddings one-of-a-kind.

Published by Rachael Crowe in Advice, Featured, Weddings

February 5, 2021 — Comments are off for this post.

8 Mountain Wedding Venues in Chattanooga, TN

We all love the dreamy mountaintop elopement photos on Pinterest right now. The hazy light streaming through evergreens, the lush forests, the towering rock formations. But not every couple has the urge to hike the backcountry on their wedding day (or the budget to rent a ski resort out west), and many aren’t willing to sacrifice their guest list to have their dream mountain wedding. Why not pick a gorgeous mountain wedding venue here in Chattanooga?

You don’t have to elope in Colorado to get married in the mountains. You can host a wedding of any size and budget here in the Appalachian Mountains.

Why I Love Mountain Weddings

My local couples recognize the lure of the mountains, and many of them fell in love here. No matter the season, the foliage shows up. Go for the dense greens of summer, the copper colors of fall, or even the snowy hills in winter. You can’t go wrong.

Many of these venues also feature river views, a staple here in Chattanooga. Out-of-town guests can really get a feel for the area by driving up into the hills for your wedding and then back into town for drinks at their hotel. Some of these spots even offer their own accommodations! What’s more fun than a weekend in the hills with your closest friends and family, talking under the stars and cozying up in your cabin? (Or a private wedding weekend with your new spouse. Up to you!)

On top of that, there’s something cozy and intimate about a mountain wedding, even one with a large guest list. You can keep things super traditional or play up the vibes with cabin-themed decor. Either way, the hills make the perfect backdrop.

My Favorite Mountain Wedding Venues in Chattanooga

1. Gardens in the Gorge

If you’re looking for a mountain wedding venue that doesn’t sacrifice modern style, check out Gardens in the Gorge. The outdoor ceremony site works well in spring and fall, especially with the thick forest that surrounds the venue. Their main indoor space, Windsor Hall, is great for large receptions, and it can double as a ceremony space if the weather goes south.

Gardens in the Gorge is close to town, and it features four cottages for guests or bridal party members to rent for the weekend. Each of the cottages can accommodate four guests, so you could easily plan for a weekend getaway with your nearest and dearest.

Want to elope? You can do that here, too. Gardens in the Gorge will let you rent their space for just a few hours so you can host a private, intimate wedding away from the city. And like I said, it’s close enough to downtown for dinner or an afterparty.

A bride and groom embrace in front of a railing at a mountain wedding venue in Chattanooga. A bride and groom kiss surrounded by guests holding sparklers. Wedding guests sit on blankets in a meadow as the bride and groom exchange vows.

2. Tennessee RiverPlace

This venue has a different feel from some of the others on this list, but it still offers an impressive mountain view. Located deep in the valley, Tennessee RiverPlace is a Spanish style mansion overlooking the river.

If you’re concerned about the weather, the mansion is plenty large enough to accommodate an indoor ceremony and reception. But if you’re getting married in late spring or early fall, I say take advantage of the outdoor space. You can say your vows right in front of the river and dance all night on the outdoor patio surrounded by mountains.

Again, this venue is just a few minutes from downtown Chattanooga, so your out-of-town guests can Uber there and back without issue (and your friends can party downtown after the reception ends).

The mansion on the river is definitely the show stopper at this venue, but you still get the dreamy mountain vibes.

A bride and groom kiss beneath a floral arbor in front of mountains and the river in Chattanooga, TN. A shot through a Spaniish-style arch of a bride and groom exchanging vows in a field next to a river.

3. The Gray Dove

This venue is dripping with Tennessee charm. The Gray Dove is a true barn venue nestled on a farm in the valley. As if the farm itself wasn’t beautiful enough, you also get a backdrop of rolling hills in the distance.

When you rent The Gray Dove, you get the farm for the weekend. In addition to the ceremony and reception spaces, your bridal party can stay the night in the 1920’s farmhouse onsite. And did I mention the groom’s suite has an arcade and pool table?

I always recommend this venue to couples who want a barn wedding and a fun weekend away with their friends. My tip: book for late spring or early fall. The barn itself isn’t air conditioned, but it feels amazing on a mild, breezy night.

A bridge and groom stand together under an octagon arbor in a field. A bride and groom walk arm-in-arm down a gravel road through an open field. A groom leans on a railing and smiles at a mountain wedding venue in Chattanooga, TN.

4. Hemlock Falls

While it may not offer all the amenities some of these other venues do, Hemlock Falls is one of my favorite places to shoot. It offers the same vibes as a secluded meadow elopement just a short ways from downtown Chattanooga.

There’s one cabin onsite (which is perfect for your wedding night!), but other than that, Hemlock Falls is a clean slate. If you’re a DIY-savvy bride who wants a mountain wedding on a budget, I highly recommend Hemlock Falls.

A bride and groom dance on a ridge at their mountain wedding venue in Chattanooga, TN. A bride and groom exchange vows under a geometric arbor at sunset. The aisle is lined with antique rugs. A bride and groom kiss on a ridge at their mountain wedding venue in Chattanooga, TN.

5. The Homestead

The Homestead at Cloudland Station is one of my all-time favorite mountain wedding venue in Chattanooga. It’s nestled in the valley with a beautiful view of Lookout Mountain and perfect for couples looking for a boho venue with serious style.

This is technically a barn venue, but it’s more modern than it is rustic. Plus, with both indoor and outdoor spaces, it’s perfect for all seasons and weather. The barn itself is 150 years old and includes a tented reception space outside, so your guests can take a break from dancing to enjoy the night air.

In addition to the ceremony and reception spaces, The Homestead also features onsite accommodations for your bridal party and guests (including a beautiful old house, a lodge, and two treehouses. Seriously.).

This is another venue that’s near enough to Chattanooga for a downtown afterparty. But you might not need one! The grounds are gorgeous, and the different on-site options make it a perfect all-in-one venue. You get the charm of the barn, the grandeur of the mountain landscape, and the modern look all in one. What’s not to love?

A bride and groom walk down the aisle together in an open field. A black and white photo of a bride and groom walking hand-in-hand down a brick path by a barn. A farmhouse surrounded by fall foliage at a mountain wedding venue in Chattanooga.

6. Grandview

You can’t get any closer to a mountaintop wedding than you can at Grandview. The venue is literally on Lookout Mountain. The courtyard provides a lush, green backdrop for spring and summer weddings, and the patio is perfect for an open-air reception.

My favorite thing about this venue is that it includes access to Rock City, one of the most beautiful outdoor destinations in Chattanooga. I love taking couples and their bridal parties to the suspension bridge for photos. And the natural rock formations make for stunning photos, especially at sunset. Think “Utah backcountry elopement” just a few miles from downtown Chattanooga. If a mountaintop wedding is your goal, you really can’t go wrong with Grandview.

A bridal party celebrates as the bride and groom kiss on a suspension bridge. An outdoor dining space at twilight, lit by twinkle lights and candles.

7. The Views at Sunset Ridge

While this venue isn’t technically in Chattanooga, it’s close enough that I had to include it. The Views at Sunset Ridge combines a modern, clean lodge look with unforgettable mountain views. Trust me, it’s worth the 30-minute drive.

The venue itself sits on a hill with 360 views of the surrounding mountains, which are highlighted by the dining hall’s picture frame windows. In contrast, the ceremony space is super cozy with its modern lodge vibes. When you walk out after the ceremony, you’re hit with the huge Tennessee sky.

I usually recommend The Views for winter weddings since the building is so beautiful, but it would really work well for any season. Whether you’re escaping the heat of summer or want to keep your guests warm in winter, this is the place to do it.

A groom dips his bride into a kiss in front of the Tennessee hills. A wide shot of an empty wedding ceremony space. The altar is at the base of wood stairs beneath a large cross. A bride poses with her bridesmaids, who are dressed in emerald green, in front of the hills at a mountain wedding venue in Chattanooga, TN.

8. The Venue

This is one of the most popular mountain wedding venues in Chattanooga for good reason. It’s near downtown, easy to get to, and has plenty of space indoors and out.

The Venue is great for couples who want a beautiful space they can make their own. Yes, The Venue has plenty of its own charm, but it’s also a bit of a blank canvas. You can really inject your own style into the place and get the mountain views you’re looking for. Win-win.

And my favorite part: there are tons of nearby spots I can whisk the couple off to for more photos. So you can get your ceremony photos in front of the freestanding stone fireplace, your couples’ portraits in the Tennessee hills, and then let loose on the dance floor under the stars.

A bride and groom exchange vows in front of their guests at their mountain wedding venue in Chattanooga.

A bride and groom exchange vows in front of a freestanding outdoor fireplace.

Thank you so much for reading about my favorite mountain wedding venues in Chattanooga! I hope you found a spot that checks all the boxes for you.

I love all these venues, and they all have one thing in common: they highlight the natural beauty of the Tennessee mountains. I love shooting interesting venues, but I also love when a ceremony fits perfectly into the landscape. When you get married in a place like that, it feels so natural and real in a way that truly comes to life in your photos.

Getting married near Chattanooga? Let's chat! I’m Rachael Crowe of OKCrowe Photography. I’d love to capture your big day (and get down at your reception, too!).

And if you’re still not sure about your venue, just reach out! I’ve shot all over Tennessee, and I’m more than happy to help you find the perfect backdrop for your wedding.

If you’re on the hunt for your wedding or elopement photographer, my 2021 calendar is booking up quickly! Shoot me a note through my contact form so we can start planning.

Published by Rachael Crowe in Advice, Featured, Weddings

Tags: Chattanooga engagement photographer, Chattanooga mountain wedding, Chattanooga wedding photographer, mountain wedding, mountain wedding photographer, mountain wedding venue

February 3, 2021 — Comments are off for this post.

CHATTANOOGA ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS WITH A MOODY TWIST | LAINE + BRAD

Sometimes, a bride comes to me with an idea and I say, “I’m all in!” Laine knew exactly what she wanted in her Chattanooga engagement photo session, and I was happy to bring her ideas to life in this edgy yet intimate shoot.

Originally, Laine and Brad just booked me for an engagement session. But after I delivered their engagement photos, they asked me to shoot their wedding! (Score!) I’m in love with these images and so excited to join them for their wedding at Tennessee RiverPlace.

Enjoy Laine and Brad’s Chattanooga engagement photos, and reach out if you’re looking for an engagement photographer in the area!

Chattanooga Engagement Photographer - Photos Close to Home

Laine and Brad met at a mutual friend’s bonfire. Before the party, Laine’s friend told her she had to meet a guy there named Brad. Poor Brad was out of the loop, but he was immediately drawn to Laine when he saw her at the bonfire. And I mean, can you blame him? He followed her around all night, and the two of them hit it off. They started dating right away, and the rest is history!

For their engagement session, Laine and Brad wanted to recreate their first date close to home. They picked a beautiful open field near their house for some hazy sunrise photos and planned a campfire in the backyard with their pups to wrap up the shoot. Laine had a vision, and she let me run with it. The result is this collection of moody, romantic sunrise engagement photos.

Sunrise Engagement Photos

I met Laine and Brad at sunrise in a field near their home. The light fog and early morning rays created a dark fairytale forest setting that was just perfect for these two. She wore a long emerald dress (which contrasted her gold engagement ring and hoop earrings beautifully), and he wore a charcoal button-down with a tiny pattern detail on the pocket. Not too formal, not too casual. (If you’re unsure of what to wear for your own engagement photos, I’ve got you covered.)

If you follow me on social media, you might notice my work varies a lot depending on the time of day and lighting situations. I love to keep my editing as close to how the day actually looked as possible, so when Laine told me her vision, we worked together to decide on a time and location that would fit the vibe she was envisioning. She came to me with a clear idea of what she wanted in location, attire, and overall feel. She even took charge during the photoshoot! When a bride says, “I’m going to do this pose,” I say, “Go for it!”

I’m always more than happy to take full creative control of a shoot, but it’s also fun to work with a couple who knows exactly what they want. Laine and Brad worked for these shots, even going so far as to scout the locations themselves. They explained to me what they expected in the final images, but they also told me to get creative with it. I played around with long exposures and a few creative focus images, and they walked away with a wide variety of shots that Laine said perfectly fit what they had dreamed up for their shoot.

Getting Creative With Smoke Bombs

Though we had planned for a foggy sunrise shoot, the weather didn't exactly cooperate. Any fog we were hoping for cleared as soon as the sun rose. Luckily, I had a few smoke bombs in the back of my car, so we made our own fog!

The faux “fog” didn’t look entirely natural, but the yellowish hue and billowing clouds of smoke added to the dark, otherworldly feeling we had going on. Plus, they added even more edginess to Laine and Brad’s looks. I especially love how the smoke photographed in black and white, and so did they!

We can’t always count on the weather to cooperate for an engagement shoot (or a wedding, for that matter), but I’ll help you make gorgeous memories rain or shine or fog or… you get the idea. I’m all about rolling with the punches!

Backyard Bonfire

To wrap up this engagement session, we swapped the dark and moody vibes for some fireside snuggles in Laine and Brad’s backyard. After spending the morning with this couple, I could just tell they were made for each other. They worked as a team, and their chemistry made every pose look natural.

Another gorgeous detail from the day is the array of blankets Laine and Brad styled for their shoot. Brad’s mother made all of them by hand! Laine and Brad spread them like picnic blankets on the ground and cozied up with them by the fire. I loved the pop of color and the texture they added to these images. And what a sweet surprise for Brad’s mom to see her artwork on display!

Every detail of Laine and Brad’s engagement shoot was personal to them - from the locations all the way down to the props. The backyard bonfire was a nod to the day they met. I love the idea of paying homage to your first date (or your most memorable date) in your engagement photos. Did you go bowling? Let’s shoot in a bowling alley! Did you meet at a dog park? Let’s include your furry friends! These small details are a sneaky, fun way to pay tribute to your love story.

Speaking of furry friends, I’m so glad Laine and Brad’s dogs got to join us for a few photos. After watching from the window for a little while, they rushed outside and snuggled up with mom and dad by the fire - a super sweet ending to a perfect engagement session.

It’s not every day I get to work with a couple who has such a clear artistic vision, but it’s such a treat when I do! Whether you already have an idea for your engagement photos or you have no clue where to start, I’d love to hop in on the creative process.

Reach out so we can chat about your dream engagement session. I’d be honored to be your engagement photographer here in Chattanooga or wherever your story takes you.

For more engagement inspiration, check out my past sessions on my blog and on social media.

Published by Rachael Crowe in Engagements

Tags: Chattanooga engagement photographer, Chattanooga engagement photos, chattanooga photographer, Chattanooga wedding photographer, engagement photographer, engagement photos, Tennessee photographer, Tennessee wedding photographer

March 1, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

Top 5 Chattanooga Engagement Photo Locations

Tired of scrolling through Google or Instagram for the best place to take engagement photos in Chattanooga? If scouting out locations isn’t your area of expertise, I've got you covered! As a local Chattanooga wedding photographer, I've got the scoop on the city and our surrounding hills. I'm happy to share my top 5 Chattanooga engagement photo locations with you.

If you're hunting for a local Chattanooga engagement photographer, I'd love to work with you! My standard session lasts 90 minutes, so if you’re looking for two different vibes for one price, we should have time to visit two nearby locations within that time frame. After you pick your locations, make sure to check out my blog What to Wear for your Engagement Shoot for outfit ideas!

Rachael's Top 5 Chattanooga Engagement Photo Locations

So, you got engaged...now what? (Congrats, by the way!) Well, chances are, you've got the all-important bullet point for "Engagement Photos" on your ever-growing To-Do list. Whether you plan to use your engagement photos for your Save the Date cards, holiday cards, wedding website, or you just want some nice portraits of you and your S/O for your home, you want beautiful photos to commemorate this time in your lives. I've got plenty of engagement sessions under my belt, so I'm pleased to share my favorite engagement photo shoot locations around Chattanooga with you.

1. Scenic views of Scenic City – Coolidge Park and Renaissance Park

Whether you’re a native or a transplant, you’ve visited one of Chattanooga’s most photographed locations – Coolidge Park. In the heart of Northshore on the waterfront, Coolidge Park packs a huge punch when it comes to shoot amenities. Fun-loving couples looking to capture the magic of Scenic City can visit the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge, the 100-year-old carousel and the interactive water fountain. For more outdoorsy type shots, we can also move over to Renaissance Park, a dog-friendly park right around the corner.

Keep in mind: Chattanoogans love to visit this area when the weather’s nice and it can get fairly packed in the park. But, don’t sweat it! There are plenty of ways we can snag dreamy shots like no one else is around.

man in gray sweater dips woman in short red dress and black leather jacket on a pier near Chattanooga Market Street Bridge

man sits on a bench with his arm around a woman's shoulder on Chattanooga's walking bridge near Coolidge Park

man and woman hold hands in Chattanooga's Coolidge Park between views of Market Street and Walnut Street Bridges

man and woman cuddle with small dog on picnic blanket in Chattanooga's Renaissance Park

man and woman cuddle on Chattanooga's Walnut Street Walking Bridge as the sun sets

man and woman hold hands and walk beneath Chattanooga's Market Street Bridge near Coolidge Park

man in all black and woman in amber satin dress sit on cement steps of Chattanooga's Renaissance Park near downtown

2. Mountain-top dream shoot – Sunset Rock and Point Park

Do you frequent the trails or enjoy basking in the beauty of the great outdoors? Then a photoshoot up on Lookout Mountain might be for you! Both Sunset Rock and Point Park are easily accessible, allow pets, stay beautiful year-round, and have the best sunset views around. Lookout Mountain, the location of both spots, is perfect for both the more adventurous and the amateur trailblazer because it provides several short hikes of varying intensities.

Again, these are popular locations for native Chattanoogans, so parking can be tricky. You’ll also need to be ready for an audience as we shoot (most likely gawking at how beautiful you both look).

man and woman cuddle on Sunset Rock Point Park on Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga, Tennessee

man and woman smile as they cuddle their French Bulldog on Sunset Rock on Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga, Tennessee

man carries woman on his back on Sunset Rock on Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga and they laugh

man carries woman on Sunset Rock on Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga and she leans her head down toward him

3. City slickers walking tour – Downtown Chattanooga

For those looking for an edgy, modern, or industrial look, I always recommend downtown Chattanooga. The city overflows with potential: parking garages, alleyways, and factories. Parking can be hard to come by, and you may have curious bystanders, but a city shoot offers you the chance to handpick a few locations around town that speak to your creativity. The possibilities are pretty endless as we mix up traditional shots with modern, industrial influences. A city shoot allows us to quickly jump from location to location for a variety of backdrops.

Couples interested in this approach can recommend businesses and parks they prefer, and I'll gladly curate a walking tour to suit your ideas.

woman cuddles against man, holding his hand, her head on his shoulder, in downtown Chattanooga, TN

man and woman hold hands and run across a vibrantly painted wall in downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee

man and woman pose on sofa for engagement photos at Dwell Hotel in downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee

man and woman high-five on a parking deck in downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee

4. Throwback to your favorite memories – A location special to you

The locations you regularly frequent are often overlooked, but you can honor memories while creating beautiful new ones during your engagement photo session. The list of significant places in your relationship is endless. The university where you met, the restaurant where you had your first date, the cozy nook at home where you watch the sunrise together! These special locations can offer comfort or spark new romance as your relive memories, and the photos can be cute and quirky!

We might have to work out some logistics with shooting in public places (like acquiring permits or calling ahead to notify businesses of the shoot), but I’ll help make it work.

man and woman hold record folders in front of their faces at record shop in Chattanooga, Tennessee

man and woman kiss and snuggle on leather loveseat in front of brick wall in downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee

man and woman sit in church pew in a small theater with credits on the screen

diamond engagement ring rests inside a street taco in downtown Chattanooga

man and woman hold hands and kiss while sitting on bed of Ford truck in field of grass near Chattanooga

man and woman tear apart margarita pizza in downtown Chattanooga

5. The secret garden – Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center

Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center is nestled on Lookout Mountain. This wonderland is lush with bamboo gardens, bright blooms, a gorgeous treehouse, and peaceful river views. Reflection Riding offers a naturally elegant backdrop and is rarely heavily populated, so we can capture sweet moments with your boo without an audience! The property's paved paths and driving loop make adventurous, outdoor photos very easily accessible.

Reflection Riding does charge an additional photography fee to shoot there, but we’ll have plenty of time and can even shoot after sunset.

man and woman hold hands in front of treeehouse at Chattanooga's Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center

man in light pink button-down shirt hugs woman in green dress at Chattanooga's Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center

man in light pink shirt holds hands with woman in green dress at Chattanooga's Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center

man and woman kiss on a boardwalk in front of a treehouse at Chattanooga's Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center

man and woman hold hands and run through grass at Chattanooga's Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center

man in light pink button-down shirt hugs woman in green dress at Chattanooga's Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center

BONUS: If none of these piqued your interest, I also have personal favorites I don’t share with the public. Inquire here, and I’m happy to share my secrets!

Thank you so much for reading about my Top 5 Chattanooga engagement photo locations! I hope you found an idea that fits your vision for your engagement photos. Congrats again on your engagement!

Hey, Chattanooga! I’m Rachael Crowe of OKCrowe Photography. Tired of scrolling search results and Pinterest for engagement outfit inspiration? I've got you covered there as well! Check out my What to Wear for your Engagement Shoot post for ideas. Needing more options for engagement shoot locations? Look through my recent engagement blogs for inspiration or contact me for other suggestions.

I recently updated my travel schedule for 2020. If you’re on the hunt for your wedding or elopement photographer, my calendar is booking up quickly! Shoot me a note through my contact form so we can start planning.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in April 2019, and has been revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

Published by Rachael Crowe in Engagements

Tags: Chattanooga engagement photographer, Chattanooga wedding photographer, couple's session, Sunset Rock, tips and tricks

February 8, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

Engagement Photos in Denver’s RiNo District | Farrah + Andrew

I am so excited to share Farrah and Andrew’s engagement photos in Denver's RiNo District with you! This shoot was a blast, and I love that part of my job as a photographer is traveling to couples. (I keep my travel schedule current on my site, but I’m always excited to add to it for your event. Contact me to talk through the possibilities!)

SO, Farrah and Andrew! Real talk: are you actually models, or what?

man and woman sit against a painted wall in Denver's RiNo art district for engagement photos

TRAVELING ENGAGEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER--LET’S HIT THE ROAD!

I was on the phone with Farrah for a pre-booking consultation to chat about her upcoming wedding in Chattanooga when she mentioned she and Andrew currently live in Denver, Colorado. I joked that they could bring me to Denver for their engagement session. Farrah paused and said, “Ooooo, you could come to Denver?!”

Farrah and Andrew have ties to Chattanooga. They met at UTC and have family in town, so they’ll be “coming home” for their wedding later this year. But Farrah was excited to bring me to Denver. While they’ll have photos in Chattanooga for their wedding, Denver has been especially meaningful to the couple because it’s where they’ve created their first home together. They know that even if they move away at some point, this time of their lives in Denver is recorded for their memories.

man and woman holding hands crossing the street on a sunny day

man and woman holding hands walking on a bricked alleyway between colorfully painted buildings in Denver's RiNo District

man and woman holding hands and laughing on a bricked alleyway between colorfully painted buildings in Denver's RiNo District

ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS IN DENVER’S RINO DISTRICT

Since Farrah travels a lot for work, she turned in some flight miles to fly me out to Denver for their engagement photos. I arrived a day ahead of the photoshoot to scout the area and check out where the good light would hit during their session. This is something I always try to do as part of my travel photography work! I was excited to document Andrew and Farrah in Denver’s RiNo District. RiNo stands for River North, and this area of the city is being revitalized and has a really trendy vibe. It’s becoming known as the art district of Denver. You’ll find lots of cool restaurants, brewpubs, and art galleries here, and tons of colorful murals all through RiNo. So this area provided a cool, urban vibe for their engagement photos.

I enjoyed walking through the RiNo District so much I decided Farrah and Andrew’s session should be a bit of a session on-the-go, too! I picked a few streets and alleys where I wanted to take the couple, and we stopped at some places that stood out to them, too.

Man stands behind woman and hugs her over her shoulders and kisses her cheek. She holds his arm against her.

man and woman stand in front of boldly painted brick wall for their Denver RiNo engagement photos

man and woman hold hands and walk in front of boldly painted black and white brick wall in Denver's RiNo art district

man and woman stand looking at each other against tall metal-framed windows and brick building

man and woman holding hands in front of tall metal-framed windows and brick building for Denver RiNo engagement photos

man and woman hugging in front of tall metal-framed windows and brick building for Denver RiNo engagement photos

man and woman kissing in front of tall metal-framed windows and brick building for Denver RiNo engagement photos

man and woman holding hands in front of tall metal-framed windows and brick building for Denver RiNo engagement photos

man and woman holding hands and walking away from tall metal-framed windows and brick building in Denver's RiNo district

Man and woman pose kissing in front of Denver's Il Posto street art mural of a man and woman kissing

man and woman sit against a painted wall in Denver's RiNo art district for engagement photos

man and woman sit on the ground leaning against a brightly painted wall for Denver RiNo district engagement photos

man and woman holding hands crossing the street on a sunny day

After we wrapped up in Denver’s RiNo District, we drove up Lookout Mountain outside of the city. If you’re a Chattanooga local, you’ll know that we’ve got a Lookout Mountain here, and Andrew and Farrah are actually getting married in Lookout Valley later this year! Ha! We kept laughing that they’d have engagement photos on Lookout Mountain in Colorado and wedding photos on Lookout Mountain in Tennessee. Can’t make this stuff up!

Man and woman stand in a tall grass field near snow. They hold hands and press their foreheads together as the sun sets

Man sits in tall golden grass with woman cuddling on his lap. She hugs one arm around his shoulder and leans toward him.

Man sits in tall golden grass with woman cuddling on his lap. She holds his cheek and kisses him.

#ItsAJeepThing

For engagement sessions, I invite couples to bring something that’s special to them or something that is part of their everyday life together. Lots of people bring food or a pet, but Farrah and Andrew wanted Andrew’s Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk incorporated into their photos. The couple has really bonded over road trips and camping trips in their car. Andrew even proposed in it! It’s been a huge part of their relationship, and I love that they see it as a way to continue adventuring together in the future.

Another thing they brought were DINOSAUR SOCKS. Remember that “Rawr! It means ‘I love you’ in dinosaur” meme? Sometimes when they’re in a hurry, Andrew and Farrah will text each other a dinosaur emoji as a quick “I love you.” A moment please to acknowledge how super cute and quirky this is.

Man and woman sit in the open hatchback of their Jeep. She sits between his legs as he hugs her.

Man and woman sit in the open hatchback of their Jeep. She sits between his legs and turns her face to kiss him.

Man and woman sit in the open hatchback of white car. She sits between his legs, her hand reaching behind her to his face.

Man and woman sit in the open hatchback of their white car. She sits between his legs as he hugs her.

Man and woman sit in the open hatchback of white car. She has her legs over his lap. They wear white, dinosaur-printed socks

DENVER, CO LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS

Following engagement photos with Andrew’s Jeep, the couple did a quick outfit change at a coffee shop up on Lookout Mountain. Then, I took some photos of Farrah and Andrew against some of their favorite mountain views. Not downplaying Chattanooga’s Lookout Mountain views one single bit, but these Colorado mountain views are jaw-dropping! We hit the jackpot with golden hour and blue hour (right after sunset), and these two are absolutely gorgeous in their Denver mountains.

Man in dark suit hugs and woman in long maroon dress stand at an overlook between coin operated binocular machines.

Man in dark blue suit and woman in long maroon dress look at each other and smile.

Man in dark suit and woman in long maroon dress stand on large rocks with rolling grassy mountains in the background

Man in dark suit and woman in maroon dress kiss in a grassy field on Colorado's Lookout Mountain for engagement photos

Man in dark suit and woman in maroon dress stand in a grassy field on Colorado's Lookout Mountain for engagement photos

Man in dark suit twirls woman in maroon dress in a grassy field for engagement photos on Colorado's Lookout Mountain

Man in dark suit and woman in maroon dress kiss in a grassy field on Colorado's Lookout Mountain for engagement photos

Man in dark suit and woman in maroon dress in a grassy field for engagement photos on Colorado's Lookout Mountain

Man in dark suit and woman in maroon dress hug

Man in dark suit and woman in maroon dress press foreheads together in front of Colorado mountain scene

Man in dark suit and woman in maroon dress kiss, her hand and engagement ring on his shoulder

Man in dark suit wraps his arms over woman's shoulders from behind. She holds her hands over his at her chest.

Man in dark suit hugs and woman in long maroon dress in front of Colorado mountain scenery

Man in dark suit and woman in long maroon dress hold hands in the middle of the street on Lookout Mountain in Colorado

Man and woman hold hands and cross the street overlooking the mountain view from Lookout Mountain in Colorado

Man in dark blue suit and woman in long maroon dress hug overlooking the mountain view from Lookout Mountain in Colorado

After wrapping up their photos on Lookout Mountain, we drove into town, grabbed tacos and margaritas, and just hung out. We used this time to finish planning their wedding timeline, and I shared a few Chattanooga vendor recommendations. I really like being able to help couples in this regard and share some of my own wedding expertise!

Andrew and Farrah, I loved getting to hang out with you in the Denver area! Thanks for bringing me out for your engagement photos. I can’t wait for your wedding in Chattanooga later this year!

Did you know my most frequently booked wedding photography package includes an engagement session?! Professional engagement photos are a great opportunity for you to get used to being in front of a camera. Whether you want formal or relaxed portraits, this session allows for a photoshoot without the additional pressure of the wedding day timelines and busyness.

Whatever your vision is for your engagement session or your wedding, I’m here to capture the details. As your wedding photographer, I know just how much this day matters to you, and I am so excited to document it. Contact me today so we can start planning together!

Hi, y'all! I'm Rachael Crowe of OKCrowe Photography. For couples booking me from out-of-state, bringing me to your place for photos is always on the table. I love being a travel wedding photographer as much as a hometown Chattanooga wedding photographer. If you liked Farrah and Andrew's engagement photos in Denver's RiNo District, check out Liz and Andrew’s winter elopement in Zion National Park. Liz and Brock’s couple’s portraits in Joshua Tree National Park is another one for inspiration! If you’re planning a destination wedding in Chattanooga, check out Jim and Emily’s destination wedding blog for ideas!

Published by Rachael Crowe in Engagements, Travel

Tags: Chattanooga engagement photographer, Chattanooga wedding photographer, Denver engagement photographer, Destination wedding photographer

February 4, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

Fun Engagement Photos at Lake Winnie Chattanooga

I’ve mentioned before that I like when couples do things in a way that fits their unique personalities and styles. So when Carmen and Brian contacted me about doing their fun engagement photos at Lake Winnie (Chattanooga, TN), I was totally into it.

Man in white pants and blue sport coat dances with woman in red dress below rollercoaster for fun engagement photos

Fun Engagement Photos at Lake Winnie Chattanooga, TN

Lake Winnie Amusement Park is just outside of Chattanooga and has been a classic family fun destination for almost 100 years. Besides a few roller coasters and some classic carnival-type rides, they also have an arcade and food stands.

We scheduled Carmen and Brian’s engagement session for a Sunday night in September, a little before the park was closing. The timing was perfect for us because the crowds had thinned out by that point. In the peak of summer, a Lake Winnie photo session might be a bit trickier!

The employees were all so nice and helpful. Because we were there during a slow season, we were able to get on a few of the rides before anyone else so we could get in the shots we wanted. So shout-out to Lake Winnie for making an unconventional engagement shoot even more fun.

Man and woman laugh in blue and red spinning carnival ride during their engagement photos at Lake Winnie in Chattanooga, TN

Man and woman laugh in blue and red spinning carnival ride

Woman laughs in blue and red spinning carnival ride

Man and woman ride a blue and red spinning carnival ride

Man and woman sit on retro stools at a high-top table

Woman reaches across a table to offer a bite of funnel cake to man

Woman kisses man's cheek as he enjoys a funnel cake

Man and woman ride ferris wheel at Lake Winnie in Chattanooga for engagement photos

Ferris wheel at Lake Winnie in Chattanooga

Man and woman kiss next to a metal frame fence near a carnival ride. Ferris wheel stands in the background.

Man and woman hold bean bags in front of carnival game counter as they prepare to toss bags for stuffed animal prize

Man puts his hand on woman's back as they prepare to play a carnival game

Man and woman toss bean bags at stacked blocks at a carnival game

Man tosses bean bags at stacked blocks at a carnival game

Man and woman toss bean bags at stacked blocks at a carnival game

Man flexes bicep next to woman in a red dress holding a stuffed puppy

Man stands beside woman sitting on counter of carnival game with a wall of stuffed animal prizes hanging behind them

Man and woman hold hands and smile while walking on sidewalk

Woman in red backless dress kisses her fiance

Unique and creative ideas for your engagement photos

A lot of times we photographers use words like “engagement portraits” because these tend to be semi-formal photo sessions. But they don’t have to be! Your engagement session can be relaxed and silly as well. In my post about engagement photo outfits, one of my top 5 tips is to CHOOSE COMFORT. And I’d make the same recommendation for where to take your engagement photos! If you have a location where you’re super comfortable, or if you have a creative idea that’s a little outside the box but fits YOU, let me know. We can get as untraditional as you are! As you can see from this gallery, Carmen and Brian really brought some fun into their engagement photos by having them taken at Lake Winnie.

Man holds woman's hand and leads her past carousel

Man and woman stand between horses on Lake Winnie's carousel in Chattanooga, TN

Man holds onto carousel horse and leans into his fiancé to kiss her

Man kisses woman on her cheek as she balances herself between two carousel horses

Man and woman stand between horses on the carousel at Lake Winnie in Chattanooga for their cute engagement photo session

Woman sits on carousel horse and gazes at man standing next to her for their fun engagement photos at Lake Winnie

Woman in red dress sits on carousel horse and leans over to kiss man in blue blazer standing next to her

Man and woman stand near white lattice divider

Man and woman ride in roller coaster with their hands raised.

Man and woman with hands raised in the last car of a roller coaster

Man and woman sit in the first car of the Cannon Ball rollercoaster during their fun engagement photos at Lake Winnie

Man kisses woman's cheek in the first car of the Cannon Ball rollercoaster during their fun engagement photos at Lake Winnie

Man in white pants and blue sport coat dances with woman in red dress below rollercoaster for fun engagement photos

Man in white pants and blue sport coat kisses woman in red dress below rollercoaster framing for fun engagement photos

Woman and man hold hands and walk along the top of the wide curb next to the lake at Lake Winnie in Chattanooga

Man and woman link arms and bite into fried corn dogs during their fun engagement photo session in Chattanooga, TN

Man sits with woman on his lap at the end of Skee-ball game at the Lake Winnie arcade for their unique engagement photos

Woman kisses man's cheek as she sits on his lap on the Skee-ball arcade game for their cute engagement photos in Chattanooga

Woman sits on man's lap on the Skee-ball arcade game for their fun engagement photos at Lake Winnie in Chattanooga, TN

Man and woman on the swing carousel ride for their fun engagement photos at Lake Winnie in Chattanooga, TN

Man and woman reach for each other's hands on the swing carousel ride for their fun engagement photos at Lake Winnie

Woman holds crystal glasses while man pours champagne into one

Woman holds crystal glass, her engagement ring displayed, while man pours champagne into it

Woman holds crystal glasses while man pours champagne into one

Man in light blue sport coat and woman in red dress link arms to drink champagne from crystal glasses

Couple riding in green frog car during their unique engagement photos at Lake Winnie in Chattanooga, TN

Couple laughs while riding in green frog car during their fun engagement photos at Lake Winnie in Chattanooga, TN

Man and woman smile at each other on a green frog carnival ride

Man and woman make silly faces on frog-shaped carnival ride at Lake Winnie

Shadow of man and woman holding hands and walking on a sidewalk

Man and woman holding hands and walking. She carries a stuffed puppy carnival game prize.

Roller coaster car at the top of a steep climb. People raise their hands at the top.

I think Lake Winnie was such a cute idea for engagement photos in Chattanooga. It helped tell a story about Brian and Carmen and allowed them to show their fun sides. If your fun side is something you want to let really shine during your photo session, let me know! We can brainstorm locations together, and I’m always thrilled to run with whatever crazy idea you’ve got, too.

One reason I enjoy doing engagement photos with my clients is to get them comfortable in front of the camera before the Big Day. If you’re on the fence about scheduling a session, contact me, and we can chat through the details.

Hi, y'all! I'm Rachael Crowe of OKCrowe Photography, and I hope this blog inspired you. As you know, I love shooting in and around Chattanooga so much that I put together my Top 5 Chattanooga Engagement Photo Locations for you, but obviously there are countless places in our area for your session. ALSO, I travel for engagement photos, elopements, and weddings! For inspiration, check out Liz and Andrew’s Zion National Park Elopement or Jim and Emily’s Brooklyn Engagement Session. You can see my current 2020 travel schedule on my site, and I’m always ready for adventure if you want to book me to join you out of town.

And if you’re still stressing about what to wear for engagement photoshoot, check out my top tips!

Published by Rachael Crowe in Engagements

Tags: Chattanooga engagement photographer, Chattanooga wedding photographer, couple's session, Georgia wedding photographer, Tennessee wedding photographer

January 31, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

What to Wear for your Engagement Shoot in 2020

So you’re looking for ideas for what to wear for your engagement shoot. I hear you! When I help couples plan their engagement photos, one of the most asked questions is:

"What should we wear to our engagement session?"

We all feel your pain! I get it--you may be using these photos for Save the Date cards or holiday cards or your wedding website. You want your engagement photos to look perfect, and finding the best outfit for engagement photos may not be as easy as opening your closet doors.

If you’re reading this blog, you’ve probably already been scrolling search results and Pinterest for engagement outfit inspiration. It’s possible your significant other is not quite as interested in choosing the perfect look, or maybe you’re reading through this cuddled up side-by-side on the couch, pinning away. Either way – I’ve got you AND your boo thing covered. So yeah, what to wear to an engagement photoshoot...read on!

I’ve also linked my Pinterest board at the end of this blog for some engagement photo outfit and styling ideas. Make sure to check that out!

Top 5 tips on what to wear for your engagement shoot in 2020

1. Two is better than one.

Can’t decide between outfits? Bring two! Nobody ever said you can’t have casual engagement photos as well as formal engagement photos! Having a choice of two outfits allows you to get the best of both worlds. Going jeans and t-shirt and then changing into a sexy dress for engagement photos is totally acceptable.

Tip: Make sure you plan for a changing location during your shoot – there’s nothing like bonding with bae while changing clothes in the middle of the woods. Another option is to wear neutral base items – a slip, or tank top and spandex shorts – to comfortably switch between your outfits.

man and woman in jeans and casual tops stand below arched tree branches during their engagement photo session

man in blue suit and brown shoes and woman in wrap-around knee-length dress hold hands on a bridge for engagement photos

2. When in doubt, go with a neutral piece.

Your first reaction to this one may be – “boooring!” – but hear me out! Neutral colors (like tan, gray, black, or navy) ensure that YOU are the center of attention in your engagement photos instead of your shirt being the eye-catcher.

Neutrals are great for coordinating outfits for engagement pictures, too! Don’t worry, this isn’t family portraits from the ‘90s. Coordinating is not the same as matching. If you and your partner begin with a neutral base, you’re already a huge step closer to looking like the cute little matched set that you are.

One more thing: Neutrals are flattering for every skin tone, which makes them a good start before you mix and match. So, if you’re unsure or even a bit anxious, this is a great way to go!

man in dark collared shirt cuddles over the shoulders of woman in cream turtleneck sweater during their engagement photos

man in black short sleeve black shirt and black pants holds hands with a woman in amber halter dress next to flowering bushes

woman in black jeans and green jacket with her legs across mans knee as they sit in the grass during engagement photos

3. Go bold with gem tones.

Think ruby, emerald and sapphire. If you’re going for colorful, opt for a gem tone instead of neon colors (lime green or bright orange) to get that punch of color.

These vibrant gem tone colors can be paired with neutrals or color-blocked to add a punch of color without being distracting. Gem tones photograph beautifully, and the color transfers well (a.k.a. the color turns out in photos how you see it IRL).

man in gray sweater dips woman in short red dress and black leather jacket on a pier near Chattanooga Market Street Bridge

woman wearing red dress and man wearing blue jacket and light pants kiss near ferris wheel and carnival rides

man in slim jeans and green t-shirt holds hand with woman in long-sleeve, emerald jewel tone dress

woman in short maroon dress holds hands with man in blue button down shirt next to a flowing creek

4. Spice it up!

If you love to make a daring statement on the regular, you have so many ways to execute in style! Start with your interest pieces – like a bold print, a chunky necklace, a boho hat, or a floral skirt – and build your dream engagement outfit around it.

Warning: Sometimes bold patterns can look unflattering in pictures if they become distorted with your posing, but if bold is your style, then I believe we can rock it!

woman in short, white fringe-hemmed dress and black leather jacket sits on lap of man in jeans and brown leather jacket

man wearing jeans, black shirt, and black cowboy hat holds hands with woman wearing long red dress in front of large red barn

woman in floral sundress and black hat sits with man in blue jeans and black shirt on a large rock. her legs are in his lap.

5. Choose comfort.

Obviously you’ll look your best when you feel your best (there’s probably a scientific law about this). You really want to choose an outfit that makes you comfortable. I promise you, if you’re uncomfortable, it’s going to show in your photos!

While a form-fitting outfit will show off your figure better, be careful that you won’t be counting down the minutes until you can strip out of that dress. Through the session you’ll sit, stand, snuggle, jump, twirl, and more. So be sure you’ve got on comfortable shoes and clothes with some stretch and breathability.

My two cents? Do yourself a huge favor, and when you’re planning what to wear for your engagement shoot, start with comfort.

Tip: Comfort doesn’t have to mean dressed down! It’s really all about making sure your engagement photo outfits aren’t entirely out of line with who you are or what you wear on the daily.

woman snuggles her head on man's shoulder as they sit beneath a shared plaid blanket in a wood cabin

man snuggles his nose in woman's hair during engagement photo session. Chattanooga's Walnut Street walking bridge behind them

woman lays with her head in man's lap on a bench outside a mountain stone cabin with small fire nearby

woman in short maroon dress and man with pants cuffed to his knees cross a rocky stream barefoot

Bonus Tip 6: Picked some options, but still not 100%? Consult with trusted friends, or send me a couple outfit ideas for an unbiased opinion! Your crew and (photographer) are often the best place to go for honest thoughts and confidence-boosting affirmation, so you'll go into your engagement photoshoot feeling like the fabulous duo you are!

Ready to start making your selections? Check out my Pinterest board curated with my top 5 engagement shoot outfit ideas in mind! Then CONTACT ME to schedule your shoot!

Hey, Chattanooga! I'm Rachael Crowe of OKCrowe Photography. Sick of scrolling through Google and Instagram to find the perfect location for your engagement photos? I've got your covered there as well! Check out my top five Chattanooga engagement photo locations. Needing some more ideas for what to wear for your engagement shoot? Look through my recent engagement blogs for inspiration.

I recently updated my travel schedule for 2020. If you're on the hunt for your wedding or elopement photographer, my calendar is booking up quickly! Shoot me a note through my contact form so we can start planning. 🙂

Editor's note: This post was originally published in April 2019, and has been revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

Published by Rachael Crowe in Engagements

Tags: Chattanooga engagement photographer, Chattanooga wedding photographer, couple's session, Tennessee wedding photographer, tips and tricks

January 19, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

Raccoon Mountain Sunset Engagement | Tess + Webb

I’ll be shooting Tess and Webb’s wedding at The Homestead at Cloudland Station later this year, and if that’s anything like their Raccoon Mountain sunset engagement session, it’s gonna be a good one (see other weddings I've shot at The Homestead at Cloudland Station)!

Man in light blue suit and glasses leans in to kiss woman at golden hour during Raccoon Mountain engagement session

Raccoon Mountain, not just for caving and mountain biking

When Tess contacted me about engagement portraits, she wanted to give me some creative liberty and to style her and Webb a little for the photos. I suggested a flowy gown and more formal outfit and an outfit change mid-session to vary the tone of things a bit. The couple wanted a mix of water and mountain scenery, and I knew Raccoon Mountain offered both features. I knew we also had the possibility of an incredible sunset for their engagement portraits, so we scheduled our timing with this in mind.

If you haven’t been up to Raccoon Mountain, you really need to go exploring. It’s a little tricky to find info online about the park. Raccoon Mountain is technically part of TVA’s hydroelectric system, and the other sort of main draw is the cavern system underground. But above ground is a huge reservoir surrounded by a 1-way loop drive with a couple of unreal overlook spots! You’ll just have to take my photo evidence here as proof that you need to get up there and check it out.

We began the evening with their more formal outfits, and I got some shots of Tess and Webb in the woods. With such incredible scenery coming up, I really wanted to capture these two in a more “neutral” setting, something that wouldn’t be too distracting from the couple. This also helped Tess and Webb get used to my direction and cues.

Man in light blue suit and woman in white lacy dress stand beneath tall trees on Raccoon Mountain

Man in light blue suit and woman in white lacy dress hold hands beneath tall trees

Man in light blue suit and woman in white lacy dress stand beneath tall trees

Man in light blue suit and woman in white lacy dress stand beneath tall trees on Raccoon Mountain

Man in light blue suit and woman in white lacy dress stand beneath tall trees

Man in light blue suit and woman in white lacy dress kiss beneath tall trees

Man in light blue suit and woman in white lacy dress stand hugging, looking at each other beneath tall trees

Man leans over woman's shoulder, almost kissing her neck while they both smile

Mountainside serenade

I always encourage my couple’s to bring something special with them as a way to personalize their session. Webb brought his guitar because he plays a lot of open-mic nights, and Tess is always there to cheer him on. Music is something the two have bonded over, and it was really cute to watch him serenade her as part of their engagement portraits.

Man leans over woman's shoulder, hugging her, while they both smile

Man in light blue suit and woman in strapless white dress sit on large rocks near woods. He plays a guitar while she smiles.

Man in light blue suit and woman in strapless white dress sit on large rocks. He plays a guitar while she smiles.

Man in light blue suit and woman in strapless white dress sit on large rocks. She plays a guitar as he reaches over the frets

Diamond engagement ring sits on guitar frets

A sunset engagement session on Raccoon Mountain

The sky start to change, and we knew it was time to work in some of those amazing sunset shots. This light still kills me. We definitely got in those mountain views that Tess wanted in her engagement portraits with Webb! Haha! I am over the moon at the swoon-worthy close-up shots as the couple leans in for that kiss.

After photos at the overlook, Tess and Webb changed into their less formal outfits. We did some styled, more moody photos on the loop drive around the reservoir. If you ask me, Tess couldn’t have picked a better dress to match that sky.

Man in light blue suit and woman in flowing lacy white dress kiss at sunset with rolling Tennessee Valley hills behind them

Man in light blue suit dips woman in flowing lacy white dress at sunset with rolling Tennessee Valley hills behind them

Man in light blue suit twirls woman in flowing lacy white dress at sunset with rolling Tennessee Valley hills behind them

Man leans over woman's shoulder, almost kissing her neck while they both smile. Behind them the sun sets over several hills.

Man in light blue suit picks up woman in flowing lacy white dress with rolling Tennessee Valley hills behind them

Man leans over woman's shoulder, almost kissing her neck while they both smile. Behind them the sun sets over several hills.

Man leans over woman's shoulder, almost kissing her neck while they both smile

Man in light blue suit picks up woman in flowing lacy white dress with rolling Tennessee Valley hills behind them

Man in light blue suit and glasses leans nose-to-nose with woman at sunset during Raccoon Mountain engagement session

Man in light blue suit and glasses leans in to kiss woman at golden hour during Raccoon Mountain engagement session

Man and woman walk hand-in-hand on Raccoon Mountain's loop drive at golden hour. She carries a bouquet of white flowers.

Man and woman stands hand-in-hand on Raccoon Mountain's loop drive at golden hour. She holds a bouquet of white flowers.

Man uncorks champagne and champagne sprays out. Woman in pink dress stands next to him laughing.

Man drinks champagne from the bottle. Woman in pink dress stands next to him laughing.

Man and woman stand next to each other on paved road near metal guardrail. She holds champagne bottle and laughs.

Man and woman stand hand-in-hand on Raccoon Mountain's loop drive at golden hour.

Man and woman stand kissing on Raccoon Mountain's loop drive at golden hour.

Man and woman walk hand-in-hand on Raccoon Mountain's loop drive at golden hour. He has a guitar hung over his shoulder.

Man and woman walk on paved road at golden hour. He strums a guitar hung over his shoulder.

Man and woman walk on paved road. He strums a guitar hung over his shoulder.

Man dips woman in long pink dress back and kisses her at golden hour on Raccoon Mountain's loop drive

Tess and Webb, thanks for the creative freedom for your engagement portraits! Can’t wait till the wedding!

Researching where to have your engagement portraits taken? We’ve got so many amazing locations within a pretty short drive from Chattanooga! Raccoon Mountain is only about 20 minutes from downtown. And don’t forget, I’m always ready to book tickets to meet you in your dream destination! CONTACT ME, your friendly Chattanooga wedding photographer, so we can start planning!

Hi, there! I'm Rachael Crowe of OKCrowe Photography, and I hope you enjoyed seeing Tess and Webb's engagement photos. In need of your own engagement session inspiration? Consider my Top 5 Chattanooga Engagement Photo Locations. Or interested in a couple’s portrait session out of town? I do that, too! Check out Liz and Brock’s Joshua Tree Adventure couple's session.

Published by Rachael Crowe in Engagements

Tags: Chattanooga engagement photographer, Chattanooga wedding photographer, couple's session, Tennessee wedding photographer

January 18, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

DUMBO Brooklyn Engagement Session | Emily + Jim

I was planning a summertime New York City vacation when Emily and Jim’s request to book me for their Lookout Mountain Destination Wedding hit my inbox. The couple, originally from the Southeast, now lives in New York City, so I contacted them about doing a “portfolio-slash-engagement session” while I was on my trip. These two were totally on board with modeling for me! I hope you enjoy their DUMBO Brooklyn engagement session photos.

Man and woman sit on large rocks near water with New York City scape behind them

Southeast Meets Northeast

Emily and Jim met while attending Auburn University in Alabama about 7 years ago. They now live in New York City in a ridiculously stylish studio apartment. While planning their wedding, they decided to return to their roots in the Southeast and have a Lookout Mountain “destination wedding” in Chattanooga. You can see photos of their wedding on my blog.

So, back to New York City and this stylish couple. First, we met together at their apartment. I was excited to take some at-home photos of them before our walking portrait session in Dumbo. We chatted about their wedding plans and what they still needed to line up. Planning a destination wedding is tricky, and I was happy to help them with Chattanooga wedding vendor recommendations.

Woman sits on man's lap in front of a large black and blue painting as they laugh. They're surrounded by large plants.

Woman sits on man's lap in front of a large black and blue painting as they cuddle. They're surrounded by large plants.

Man and woman cuddle, holding hands

Man and woman hold hands and cross the street in a zebra-striped crosswalk

Woman in flowing, white sundress holds hands with man in blue floral shirt and white trousers as they walk down the sidewalk

DUMBO Brooklyn Engagement Session

After getting some ideas nailed down, we left their apartment, picked up some champagne, and began our photo adventure in New York City's Dumbo area. Emily works in fashion, and I loved the dress she chose for this shoot! Side note: I’ve sort of always wanted to use the phrase “works in fashion” in a real life scenario.

Sooo, by the way, DUMBO stands for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass,” something I’m really glad I Googled. Ha! Got a little bit nerdy researching Dumbo Brooklyn, too. The bridge in these photos is actually the Brooklyn Bridge, not to make things more confusing. Also, Brooklyn Bridge engagement photos in Dumbo New York City...is this my real life?!! I’d love to shoot in New York more, so if you live there or you want to travel there for a session, I’m already on board. *WINK*

We popped the champagne at golden hour in the streets of Dumbo and walked along the edge of the water. New York City is absolutely huge. If you’re looking for where to have an engagement session in New York’s Dumbo neighborhood, just walk down the street! You'll find so many little nooks and crannies and sidewalks and side streets for amazing photos. It’s unreal.

The weather was a dream, not too hot and not too cold, and look at that perfect perfect golden light. I heard that a gorgeous New York City sunset is rare, so I felt especially lucky to have one during Emily and Jim's session.

Man and woman stand in front of glass door refrigerators with various types of wine and champagne

Man and woman hold hands and walk toward waterfront. Sun shines through her white cotton sundress.

Man and woman hold hands and walk between black metal fencing.

Man and woman hold hands and walk in front of a black, metal fence along waterfront. New York City skyline is behind them.

Man and woman pop open a bottle of champagne in Dumbo New York City with Brooklyn Bridge in background

Man sprays champagne on a cobblestone street of Dumbo Brooklyn while woman places her hand on his shoulder, laughing.

Woman in strapless white sundress drinks champagne from the bottle while man watches during Dumbo Brooklyn engagement session

Man and woman hold hands, smiling at each other, while walking down brick street with Brooklyn Bridge in the background

Shadowy side street leads to the Brooklyn Bridget lit with sunlight

Man's arm with silver watch and woman's arm with simple, large diamond ring. Brooklyn Bridge in the background.

Man and woman kiss on a brick street with Brooklyn Bridge in the background

Woman bends backward while man stretches to plant a kiss on her throat

Man and woman run down the sidewalk next to cobblestone street near the Brooklyn Bridge

Man carries woman on the sidewalk during their engagement session in Dumbo Brooklyn near the Brooklyn Bridge

Man and woman hold each other on the sidewalk during their engagement session in Dumbo Brooklyn near the Brooklyn Bridge

Man and woman kiss on the sidewalk during their engagement session in Dumbo Brooklyn near the Brooklyn Bridge

Man and woman cuddle on large rocks at the East River in New York City

Man and woman holding each other under the Brooklyn Bridge during Dumbo Brooklyn engagement session

Man and woman stand gazing at the sunset under the Brooklyn Bridge during Dumbo Brooklyn engagement session

Man and woman stand on large rocks next to the East River under the Brooklyn Bridge during Dumbo Brooklyn engagement session

Man and woman stand gazing at the sunset under the Brooklyn Bridge during Dumbo Brooklyn engagement session

Man and woman cuddle on large rocks beside the East River in Brooklyn New York City

Man and woman sit on large rocks next to the East River with the Brooklyn Bridge behind them

Man and woman stand under a tree looking at each other, their arms looped around each other

Man holds woman in white sundress near water with New York City buildings in the background

Man kisses woman's shoulder while they sit on large rocks waterside with New York City scape in background

Man and woman cuddle on large rocks waterside with New York City scape in background

Man and woman hold hands and walk along large rocks waterside with New York City scape in background

Man twirls woman in white sundress near water with New York City scape behind them

Woman cuddles man over his shoulder during golden hour

Woman cuddles man from behind during golden hour in front of New York City scape

man and woman walking hand-in-hand toward the Brooklyn Bridge

How to feel comfortable with your wedding photographer

I had so much fun giving these two cues during our shoot. As a photographer, it's awesome to work with a couple with an easy-going, fun-loving approach to the portrait session!

I know I’ve said it before, but the trust between a photographer and couple is such a big deal. Some of that comes naturally, just a relaxed chemistry between the three of us, but oftentimes the trust develops from sessions like this one before the actual wedding day. Especially if you’re nervous in front of cameras, it’s so important to become at ease with your wedding photographer!

I always like to invite couples to meet with me for coffee or dinner or a drink before the BIG WEDDING DAY because it helps us get comfortable with each other. It’s nice to be human together for a little bit and establish a bond over common interests outside of the pressure of such an important day. So, yeah. Fill out the form and let’s grab coffee. 😉

If you’re thinking about a couple’s session or engagement portraits--in Chattanooga or New York City or the other side of the world--I’d be thrilled to photograph you and your boo. Contact me, your friendly Chattanooga wedding photographer, so we can meet up and grab that drink.

If you loved looking through Emily and Jim’s “portrait-slash-engagement” photos, you might also be inspired by Liz and Brock’s Joshua Tree adventure shoot. Not sure what to wear to your engagement session, I’ve got you covered!

Published by Rachael Crowe in Engagements, Travel

Tags: Chattanooga engagement photographer, couple's session, New York City wedding photographer, Tennessee wedding photographer

September 21, 2018 — Comments are off for this post.

Liz and Brock | Joshua Tree Adventure Session

First of all, Joshua Tree National Park in California is a DREAM! Doing an adventure session in Joshua Tree... even better. This is one of my favorite sessions of all time, and I'm super excited to share the photos.

Liz and Brock were one of the winners of my west coast session giveaway (keep up with my travel schedule for more giveaways). Both of them work for Disneyland now, but they met a few years ago when Brock's band was touring and visited Liz's hometown. Like every teenage fantasy, Liz caught Brock's eye from the stage and they ended up talking after the show. He friended her on Facebook, and they begin dating shortly after. Liz is also a talented SFX Makeup Artist and you can check out her work on Instagram!

Joshua Tree National Park is known for the giant branching yuccas, known as Joshua trees. They are the funny looking plants in these photos that don't quite look like a tree but aren't exactly a cactus or bush. More like something you would find in a Dr. Seuss book, they are pretty peculiar (which you know I love!). I was also told Joshua trees symbolize the strength and beauty that can arise from dysfunction, which is very cool. Joshua Tree National Park is also known for fan palm oases, seasonal gardens of cholla and ocotillo, and massive rock formations that attract avid rock climbers. Definitely a must see in the national park system.

I had the best time photographing Liz and Brock's couples session in Joshua Tree. I would love to come back for more photo sessions, so if you know someone interested in eloping or looking to book a photographer there, I would be so grateful if you would share my contact info! Sessions can be booked by emailing HelloRachaelCrowe@gmail.com.

Published by Rachael Crowe in Engagements, Travel

Tags: Chattanooga engagement photographer, couple's session, Destination wedding photographer, National Park wedding