Rain, Romance & Real life: A Coastal Oregon Engagement Session

Engagement photo shoots are always an adventure—and sometimes, the weather likes to join in on the fun. I recently had the joy of photographing my youngest son and his beautiful bride-to-be, Aubrey, during my first visit to their home in Oregon.

We had talked and texted about the shoot for months, brimming with excitement and ideas. Oregon offered an endless buffet of gorgeous locations: the stunning Pacific coastline, lush parks, blooming orchards, cozy wineries, and even the cherry blossoms in Salem. Choosing just two or three felt like having to pick only a couple dishes at a gourmet feast.

To make it even more special, my oldest son, Nick—Peter’s autistic big brother—joined me for the trip. It was our first time seeing Peter and Aubrey together in their element as a couple. But this wasn’t just a photo session—it was also a family visit, a sightseeing tour, and a chance to soak in their new life together.

You can probably already tell where this is headed.

The itinerary was packed a little too tightly. We tried to do it all: capture engagement photos and enjoy a full visit. Meanwhile, Oregon decided to remind us who’s boss. The weather, true to its moody Pacific Northwest nature, delivered a mix of rain, wind, and cold temps—none of which paired well with the light, springy outfits we had in mind.

Lesson learned: when planning a shoot in Oregon (or anywhere weather is unpredictable), allow for flexibility in the timeline and pack for all conditions—layers, umbrellas, and cozy photo-friendly blankets included. Also? If you’re flying in, consider renting a car… or just drive with a trunk full of gear like I wish I had.

But rather than let the rain wash out our plans, we leaned in.

Peter and Aubrey were absolute troopers. We pivoted locations, chased the light (and dry patches), and embraced the moment. Instead of stiff poses, I encouraged them to simply interact. They whispered inside jokes, laughed at the drizzle, and huddled close for warmth—giving me candid, honest moments that told their real love story.

Nick even joined in a few shots, adding a sweet family layer to the experience. At one point, we ducked into a nearby café to warm up with a cold beer (yes, really) and regroup. Over pints, we mapped out a second mini shoot later that day, hoping for a break in the weather and maybe, just maybe, a little sunshine.

Through it all, what stood out most wasn’t the rain, or the locations we didn’t get to—it was the joy, the laughter, and the way these two stuck together through it all. The weather became more than a challenge; it became a metaphor. Life won’t always offer perfect conditions, but love like theirs finds a way to shine through.

In the end, the experience mattered just as much as the photos. Together, we made something beautiful—something real—on a cold, rainy Oregon day.