Kiah and Austin’s ski engagement photos feel extra special to me, and not just because they were taken on a snowy day at Vail Mountain (though that definitely helps). These two actually found my work on Instagram years ago, back when I was just starting and figuring things out as I went. The fact that they trusted me then, and kept coming back over the years, still makes my heart do a little happy dance.
What started as one session slowly turned into many—engagements, maternity, and eventually their wedding, too. Somewhere along the way, they stopped being “clients” and became real friends. The kind you cheer on loudly and feel genuinely invested in. Watching their relationship grow alongside my own journey as a photographer has been one of those full-circle moments that sneaks up on you and makes you realize how cool it is.
Kiah and Austin both grew up skiing and snowboarding in Colorado, so the mountains have always been a huge part of their story. Vail is familiar, nostalgic, and full of memories. Choosing an on-mountain engagement session felt like the most them decision possible.
Skiing & Snowboarding in Colorado on Vail Mountain
This session was equal parts exhilarating, hilarious, and slightly humbling for me. I’ll be the first to admit I’m a mediocre skier at best. Meanwhile, Kiah and Austin were casually flying down the mountain, hitting jumps, and making it all look way too easy. I was just trying to keep up while also not wiping out with my camera.
What I loved most about these ski engagement photos was the balance. We mixed in full-on action shots with some more editorial moments. One second, they were zooming past me like pros, the next, they were laughing together, stealing kisses, and soaking up the fun.
They hit a jump together toward the end of the session. I remember watching it happen, completely in sync, fearless, and fully trusting each other!
Why Ski Engagement Photos Are Such a Fun Idea
What makes this whole day even sweeter is that not only did we get to create these ski engagement photos together on Vail Mountain, but Kiah and Austin also tied the knot nearby at Camp Hale in Red Cliff. Being able to photograph their love in the same place where so many of their memories live, and then celebrate their wedding there too, was incredibly meaningful.
I also love how this session shows just how fun and flexible engagement photos can be. Skiing on the mountain followed by some relaxed après-ski shots in the village is such a good idea. You get the adventure, the movement, the laughs… and then you get to slow things down, grab a drink, and soak in that “we’re engaged!!” feeling. It turns the session into a full experience, and that’s always the goal.
If you’re a couple who loves being outdoors, grew up on the slopes, or just want something a little different, ski engagements are such a fun way to tell your story. Kiah and Austin leaned all the way into what they love, and the result was joyful, meaningful, and so full of life!
See more: A Devil’s Thumb Ranch Wedding in Tabernash, Colorado
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