Woodsy PNW Engagement Session – Liz + Justin

First and foremost let me set the record straight, I’m a dog person. Don’t get me wrong cats have their moments but nothing beats the companionship and faithful love of a pup. When Liz and Justin approached me with the idea of incorporating their Golden Retriever Riley into some of their engagement photos I was stoked at the challenge. I must say he was a pretty good boy and didn’t give me much grief!

We shot this session at Point Defiance Park in Tacoma, we did a few shots by the beach and also utilized some of the woods as well as a tree clinging to life on the edge of one of the bluffs facing the Narrows Bridge. We had some excellent light that day and came away with some really nice shots, I also prefer a moodier look and the dying light and woodsy vibes really helped me acheive that. It’s always great to work with folks who don’t mind showing some love in front of the camera, I try my hardest to make my sessions comfortable and relaxing so people can be themselves while we’re together.

This was one of my first shoots with a new piece of equipment and it was really nice to have the chance to test it out on a real shoot. The Nikon 35mm 1.4 is a totally different monster in comparison with the also lovely Sigma 35mm 1.4 ART lens. The tones are smoother on the Nikon and it isn’t as contrasty and sterile looking, this lens has a lot more character to it.