Okay, hear me out, your engagement session doesn’t have to be all “stand here, smile pretty, now kiss.” If you’re dreaming of something that feels a little more you (and a whole lot more fun), this one’s for you. Mike & Emily’s South Lake Tahoe engagement session was the perfect example of how to turn your photos into an actual adventure.

We rented bikes near Camp Richardson, took off down a trail surrounded by pine trees and golden light, and ended the afternoon with melty, magical scoops from the Camp Richardson Ice Cream Shop. I mean… come on. Could you script a cuter date?

These two were all in! Laughing the entire time, trying out “bike tricks” for the camera that turned out to be way harder than they looked, and soaking up every second of the wild joy that happens when you just lean into the moment. Their session was the perfect mix of candid, playful, and genuinely unique engagement photos that felt so them.

Activities Make Your Engagement Session Way More Fun

When you’re doing something you love, the photos hit different. You’re not thinking about posing or where your hands go—you’re too busy living in the moment. And that’s when the magic happens.

Mike & Emily didn’t just show up for photos—they showed up for an experience. Biking through the trees, giggling their way through every wonky attempt at a trick, and ending with a sweet treat (because yes, ice cream engagement photos are a thing and yes, they’re adorable).

So if the idea of stiff poses stresses you out, good news! Your engagement session doesn’t have to look anything like that.

Why Lake Tahoe Is the Dreamiest Engagement Spot

Whether you’re locals, road-tripping adventurers, or Tahoe-obsessed honeymooners, this place is epic. The landscape is wild and gorgeous, and the vibe is equal parts relaxed and romantic.

South Lake Tahoe, in particular, is packed with options for couples who want to do something during their session!

Activity Ideas for Your Lake Tahoe Engagement Photos:

• Rent bikes and hit up one of the many paved or mountain trails (Tahoe’s bike trail system is amazing—check out this blog!)
  
• Paddle around the lake on kayaks or SUP boards
  
• Catch Sunrise or Sunset from a Scenic Overlook
  
• Pack a little picnic and find a quiet spot by the water
  
• Explore rock scrambles or boulder fields for something rugged
  
• Rent a Vintage Cabin or A-Frame for Cozy Photos In + Around It
  
• Come in winter for a snowshoe, sledding, or hot cocoa session
  

This area seriously has everything—sunset views, cozy forest vibes, lakeside beaches, and enough trails to keep you exploring for days. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re starring in your own dreamy, outdoorsy rom-com.

Your Session = Your Story

This session with Mike & Emily reminded me of why I freakin’ love what I do. When you say yes to a session that’s rooted in what you love—bike rides, big belly laughs, sugar cones dripping down your wrist—you’re not just creating photos… you’re making actual memories.

If Lake Tahoe is calling your name (and honestly, how could it not?), I’d love to help you craft something that feels so uniquely you. I’ll help you plan it out, recommend the best spots and trails, and be your personal hype human with a camera strapped on. Let’s skip the stiff poses and dive straight into something fun, real, and unforgettable.

So what do you say? Ready to turn your engagement session into the adventure of a lifetime? Contact me and let’s do this thing. 

Vendors
Photography – Clarissa Wylde Photography
Ice Cream – Camp Richardson Ice Cream Parlor
Bike Rental – Camp Richardson Mountain Sport Center