Couples Adventure Photos in The Columbia River Gorge

I will never get tired of photographing two people wildly in love, especially with the Columbia River Gorge as the backdrop. The cliffs, the breeze that plays with your hair, the views that stop you mid-sentence, reminding you how small and alive you feel all at once. Couples sessions out here aren’t just about getting a few nice photos, they are about sharing an adventure together and letting that connection shine through every image.

Why an adventure couples session is different

You might be booking an adventure couples session for your engagement, your anniversary, or simply because you want to celebrate this season together. Whatever the reason, this is a different experience than meeting me at a local park for posed photos. We are working with wide open landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and that magical golden light you can only find in the Gorge. It is a more relaxed experience, one that lets you move, laugh, and take in the view, all while I document your connection in a way that feels true to you.

What to wear for your Gorge session

I always suggest bringing two outfits. Start with something casual so you can move freely, give piggy back rides, or run around without feeling restricted. Then, switch into something more dramatic, like a dress paired with a casual dress shirt and chinos for your partner. This is the perfect combination for an adventure session, giving you variety without sacrificing comfort. I don’t recommend getting too fancy with a tux, unless you want to be photographed in your wedding outfits, of course. For shoes, boots or nice chucks are your best bet. Leave the high heels at home because the terrain is rocky and uneven, and we may climb small hills to reach the best views. I also wouldn’t suggest a short dress because it is usually windy in the Gorge.

Weather and light in the Gorge

I choose Gorge locations that are more out in the open so we can capture that golden glow at sunset. Shooting during sunset gives us the most beautiful light, painting the landscape in warm tones and giving your photos a soft, dreamy feel. While forests can be beautiful, the trees and mountains can block the sun during golden hour, so I avoid deep forest locations for couples sessions. The Gorge can be windy, and that is part of the magic. Your hair will move, your dress will catch the breeze, and it all adds to the feeling of freedom and connection these sessions are meant to capture.

I should mention, the exact spot from this session is now closed to the public, but I have found a new location just down the road that has similar stunning views. It is a bit more tucked away and smaller, which actually makes it perfect for couples sessions. It has just enough space for us to move around while still keeping that sense of intimacy, with the mountains and the river in the background. Because it is a smaller area, it works best for just two people, letting you fully soak in the scenery without distractions, and allowing us to capture that feeling of having the entire Gorge all to yourselves.

Ready to book your Columbia River Gorge couples session?

If you are ready for an adventure, I would love to photograph you at the Gorge. Whether you want to celebrate your engagement, your anniversary, or simply document your love for each other, these sessions are meant to feel like a date with the best view. You will leave with windblown hair, happy hearts, and images that remind you how good it feels to be in this moment together. If that sounds amazing to you, head on over to my pricing page or check my available dates on my booking calendar!