Katie & Nick’s Engagement Session at Artist Point | Bellingham, WA

When Katie and Nick reached out to plan their engagement session, they knew they wanted a location that felt adventurous, romantic, and true to their love for the outdoors. After tossing around a few ideas, we landed on one of the most breathtaking places in Washington: Artist Point near Bellingham. With its dramatic alpine views, wildflower-lined trails, and panoramic vistas of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan, it’s easily one of my favorite locations for couples who want a mix of awe-inspiring beauty and meaningful connection.

Their session was everything an engagement session should be—laid-back, intimate, joyful, and full of movement. We hiked a bit, chased the light, and laughed through the breeze as we explored the ridgelines and open sky.

Why Artist Point is Perfect for Engagement Sessions

If you’re looking for the ultimate backdrop in the Pacific Northwest, Artist Point delivers in every season. Perched at the end of Mount Baker Highway, this spot feels like a world away, even though it’s just a few hours from Seattle.

In summer and early fall, the area is blanketed in wildflowers and rolling meadows. On clear days, you get unobstructed views of snow-capped peaks and mirror-like alpine lakes. In late fall and winter, snow begins to coat the peaks, creating a wintry wonderland that feels straight out of a fairytale.

Photographer Tip: The light here is incredibly soft near sunset, and the open sky means you get golden hour longer than in forested areas. Just be prepared for quick weather changes and bring extra layers—it gets chilly fast at elevation! And don’t forget the bug spray! There are lots of mosquitos there too.

Katie & Nick: Natural, Joyful, and So In Love

Katie and Nick brought such genuine energy to their session (it might have been their cute dog, too). They weren’t trying to “pose” or look perfect—instead, they were simply themselves. You could see their connection in the way they moved together, laughed at each other’s jokes, and paused to take in the views hand in hand.

Katie wore a soft, flowy neutral dress that caught the wind beautifully and added that romantic, ethereal movement we photographers love. Nick kept it classic with a button-up and dark pants—simple, timeless, and perfectly complementary. Their wardrobe choices worked so well with the muted mountain tones and the moody light rolling in over the ridgelines.

We explored a few different areas—some tucked-away spots with big rock formations and some wide open views where the peaks stretch endlessly into the distance. Whether they were snuggled up on a rock, hiking a trail, or dancing barefoot on the edge of the world, every frame felt like a love letter to their relationship.

Engagement Session Tips for Mountain Locations

If you’re dreaming of a mountaintop engagement session like Katie and Nick’s, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Time It Right
Aim for golden hour—either early morning or just before sunset. This light is softer, more flattering, and adds magic to every photo.

2. Dress Smart
Choose clothing that flows and moves, and wear layers so you can stay warm when the temps drop. Neutral tones work best against the dramatic mountain landscape.

3. Pack Light but Smart
Bring hiking shoes for the walk in, then change into your photo-ready outfit at the location. Don’t forget water, bug spray, and a small mirror or comb if you’re worried about wind.

4. Be Flexible
Mountain weather can change quickly—fog, wind, and sudden drops in temperature are all part of the experience. But sometimes, those unexpected moments create the most cinematic photos.

Katie and Nick’s engagement session at Artist Point was a reminder of why I love what I do—capturing love in wild, beautiful places with couples who are fully present with each other. This session was filled with joy, movement, natural beauty, and the kind of connection that doesn’t need words.

If you’re planning an engagement session in Bellingham, Mount Baker, or anywhere in the PNW, I’d love to help you choose a location that feels like you and capture your story with honesty and heart.

Thinking about your own mountaintop engagement? Let’s make it happen.