The Couple
Jen + Jackson inquired with me about shooting their wedding later this Summer; after chatting about their wedding vision over the phone, I immediately knew I would love working with them! They chose a package that best suited their day, and we began planning their complimentary engagement session.
While planning, Jen told me that Jackson popped the big question at the top of their favorite hike together on Oahu’s North Shore: Crouching Lion. Obviously, I let out a big fat YESSSS when she asked to book their engagement session at this location. It is the perfect view of Kahana Bay, the gorgeous Ko’olau mountain range, and a great workout all in one!
PSA: This hike is officially “closed” and by hiking the trail, you are agreeing to take the risk of whatever could potentially happen while on the way to or at the peak. If you are a photographer, PLEASE TAKE CAUTION when leading clients to this location and ensure that you are not liable. Keep yourself and your clients safe! If it has been raining, reschedule the hike, don’t risk the safety of you or your clients. That being said, with this particular couple, I did end up rescheduling our original session date because we had thunderstorms and flash flood warnings the night before. Okay, rant over and back to the gorgeous engagement session!
The Session
We met and parked around 5:15 am to begin our trek up the trail while it was still dark. The sun rose a little before 6:00 am that morning, so we had 45 minutes to hike up and some extra time to cool off and change before the session started. Besides the fact that I was completely out of breath by the time we reached the peak, the hike is fairly short and goes by fast. Caution: the hike is STEEP and not for the faint of heart, so watch videos and read up on it prior to visiting. I have linked some videos at the end of the blog for reference.
Once changed, Jen and Jackson were the easiest couple I have worked with in such a long time. Jen is a photographer herself, so she and Jackson transitioned into poses and prompts so flawlessly! They weren’t afraid to be themselves, get steamy, and stay goofy in front of the lens. I am so honored to capture this beautiful moment in their lives and be a part of their wedding day coming up soon!
About halfway through our session together, we noticed clouds rolling in. Before we knew it rain started coming down – not just a drizzle, too – this was POURING RAIN. Jen and Jackson were absolute troopers. We hid in a bush to wait it out for 5 minutes and once the rain let up a bit, they were down to keep going! The two danced, kissed, and loved each other despite the rain coming down and it was literally the cutest and sexiest thing ever. Well, you’ll see for yourself 😉
Tips to Prepare For Your Hike (engagement session style)
- Research your location
- Don’t go into any hike (or any location for that matter) blind. Do your due diligence and prepare yourself for the area that you are visiting.
- Watch a helpful video on Crouching Lion here.
- Bring a backpack
- Bring a hiking bag or backpack and put all of your necessary items in there.
- Include: water bottle, snack, brush or supplies to touch up, a towel, and an extra set of clothes (or two!)
- Know your limits
- It is crucial to know your bodily limitations! Don’t overexert yourself or push yourself beyond your physical limits. Take your time, be aware of your body, and listen to it.
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Let’s chat! I would love to help you plan your next session with the one(s) you love. Click here to get started planning 🙂
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