June 9, 2024
Guys, I photographed my first couple in Montana! This was an absolute dream come true for me! Paradise Valley has been on my radar for sometime but honestly never thought I would have the change to go, much less capture someones story! It happened though and I’m still trying to process it!
A little backstory for you. I worked with Chelsea at a local Frozen yogurt place in downtown Charlottesville Virginia. Keep in mind, this was years and years ago! I knew Chelsea was out in Montana, because I couldn’t help but follow along with all of her incredible adventures her and her partner were having. So I reached out knowing I had a trip coming up. I took the risk to see if they would be interested in working with me! They said, yes! All in all, you could say I was freaking out with excitement!
Where to shoot in Paradise Valley!
I knew the general location was going to be Paradise Valley but I was insanely overwhelmed with where exactly I wanted to picked! With that being said, I asked Chelsea if there was a specific spot in Paradise Valley that meant something to her and Claire. She of course said, yes! There was a hike in the area that the two had gone on together, in fact it was the first one they did after Chelsea moved to Montana to be with Claire. Right away, I knew that was the spot! She said the wildflowers would be amazing and I just loved what the location meant to her and her relationship!
Paradise Valley offers so many incridble spots for a shoot or elopement! However, I can’t give my secerts away that easily! You’ll have to contact me here to get my Montana location guide!
The plan was set, we had a time and place and I was ready! After having a solid plan I had heard rumblings that trailheads were bring closed down due to high Grizzly bear activity. When I was told this, I was completely shocked as that was something that has never been a concern for me before. Well, until now.
What to do to protect yourself in Grizzly country
Just to name a few!
- make yourself big
- stand your ground
- don’t turn your back
- stay as calm as possible
Montana is filled with Grizzlys, it very important to be knowledgable about them and how to react if you are to encounter one during your session in Montana. Chances are it won’t happen but It is always better to be safe than sorry. As your photographer I will always have bear spray on me at all times!
When Chelsea and Claire arrived it was time to hit the trail. We did not head up too far because the wildflowers and the view right off the bat were absoluely incredible! I know personally I have never seen wildflowers quiet like that be both! Everyone seemed pretty happy with the idea of staying lower simply because of the shoes.
Something to keep in mind when shooting with me, We will 9 out of 10 always be on a trail. Keep that in mind!
When I share these two were the cutest I’m not joking, take a look for your self! Ps. We saw a mountain lion on the second ridge! True story! We never felt in danger but I must say that was a first!
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