There’s something about waterfall engagement photos that just slow everything down. The sound of rushing water. Cool air moving through the trees. Slick granite under your boots. You don’t rush here. You can’t. And honestly, that’s the magic.
And when you combine that wild beauty with two humans wildly in love? You get this. Danica and Ariana’s waterfall engagement session at Glen Alpine Falls was the kind of shoot that stays with me in the most soul-filled way.
Why Glen Alpine Falls Is Perfect for Waterfall Engagement Photos
Nestled in the mountains above South Lake Tahoe, Glen Alpine Falls brings together all the good stuff. Here you’ll find stunning cascades, rocky terrain, lush trees, and if you’re lucky, golden light bouncing off the water just right.
When Danica and Ariana first reached out, they were hoping for engagement photos near Mount Shasta. More specifically, they were searching for a queer-friendly photographer who would truly see them and celebrate their love. When they couldn’t find that space there, they contacted me and moved their plans to Lake Tahoe.
After I sent over my location guide, they found themselves torn between a few beautiful spots around the lake. Glen Alpine Falls stood out, but they had some very real questions about timing, access, and whether a longer session would be worth it.
Once I let them know I was more than happy to accommodate a longer engagement session so they could move slowly and fully experience the area, it was an immediate yes.
And that’s something I always want to emphasize: some locations just need more space! They need more time to get there, more time to wander and more time to FEEL it. And that’s okay! That’s exactly the point.
A Low-Key, Romantic September Afternoon
We began their session at Lily Lake, where the light filtered softly through the trees and the air already felt like early fall. From there, we made our way to Glen Alpine Falls. Danica and Ariana brought two outfits, which gave us the freedom to shift the mood as we moved locations.
Their energy here was tender, playful, and deeply connected. Quiet laughs. Foreheads touching. Hands finding each other without thinking. Exactly the kind of moments that unfold when you give yourselves time.
During the session, Danica’s mom (who tagged along and hiked with us like a champ!) gently pulled me aside and thanked me for bringing my energy into their session. She told me how grateful she was that they had found me.
That moment filled my heart in a way that’s hard to put into words. Being trusted with love like this is never something I take lightly.
Planning Tips for Glen Alpine Falls Engagement Photos
If this location is calling your name, here are a few things to know before you go:
- Plan for extra time. Travel, walking carefully to the falls, and soaking it all in takes longer than you think, and you definitely don’t want to rush through all of this.
- Bring a 4WD or AWD vehicle. This is especially important depending on the season and road conditions. The roads aren’t fully paved, and they can be bumpy.
- There’s no cell service. Come prepared and plan ahead. Download offline maps or directions in advance.
- Pack water and layers. Temps can shift quick in the mountains! And definitely bring shoes with traction, especially if you’re stepping near the water or scrambling over rocks
Kind Words from the Couple
“We keep thinking about what a special and lovely time we had shooting with you the other weekend! Thank you again for your time and for making it such a wonderful experience! We are so in awe of all of these beautiful photos! It was such a pleasure working with you and we too hope that our paths cross again someday!”
Planning Your Own Waterfall Engagement Photos?
Every couple deserves to have their love documented without hesitation or explanation. I believe deeply in creating spaces where you can show up exactly as you are and know that you belong here. And days like this remind me why I do what I do.
And if you’re dreaming of your own waterfall engagement photos in Lake Tahoe that feel grounded, meaningful, and full of heart, I’m your gal. Because I deeply believe you deserve time to explore. To laugh. To dance in the golden light or sit on a rock and just be together. That’s the kind of engagement session I offer, and I’d love to be part of yours.
You can check out my packages here, and when you’re ready, send me a message here! I cannot wait to hear from you! And if you are planning a Lake Tahoe elopement, you will definitely enjoy this guide!
And if you’re looking for more Lake Tahoe engagement photos, check out these blogs:
