Something I’ve been learning more and more is that every couple is vastly different, in the way that they choose to celebrate their love. Some want to do a 10-mile hike, on a secluded mountain for their engagement. Others want to just relax on the beach together, with a glass of wine. Some want it to be just the two of them, while others have loved ones (or fur babies) that they just can’t celebrate without.

For Shane + Marlee, they had an exact vision of how they wanted to celebrate. They knew they wanted the beauty and sand of the desert, at a location they love, with Marlee’s pup Sokka.

Like a lot of the guys I’ve photographed, Shane was a little anxious about the session. So before we got started, we hung out out a local restaurant for some drinks to loosen up! Once we arrived, Sokka was eager to get started! The three of them just snuggled and played a little fetch, while enjoying the incredible view. It was laid back and effortless.

The evening flew by! For me, that’s always the case. It doesn’t matter if it’s an hour long session or a four hour session, the time always just seems to fly!

Shane + Marlee love adventuring and traveling together. They’ve been to so many places as a couple already and plan to celebrate their wedding day, off the coast of Italy next year! It’s couples like them that remind me why I love what I do and why photography is so valuable.

These images truly represent what’s important to them, their dynamic together as a couple, and who they authentically are. That’s my goal with each and every couple that I photograph, and I’m ecstatic to have achieved that with Shane + Marlee. I can’t wait for their wedding next year!