What to Expect During an Adventure Photo Shoot

Adventure photo shoots are a thrilling way to capture life’s most special moments, whether it’s an engagement, a wedding, or a family portrait in the great outdoors. Whether we’re hiking to a secluded mountaintop, shooting a helicopter wedding, or exploring remote wilderness areas, an adventure shoot is a unique way to document your story in a truly incredible setting.

If you're considering an adventure photo shoot, you might be wondering what to expect during your experience. As both an accredited hiking guide and photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing many adventurous couples, families, and individuals in some of the most stunning backdrops in the Canadian Rockies. Below, I’ll walk you through what you can expect during an adventure photo shoot so that you can be fully prepared for your big day.

1. A Personalized Experience Tailored to You

The first thing you should know is that an adventure photo shoot is all about YOU. Whether you’re looking for the perfect mountain wedding, a proposal in a secluded valley, or a family portrait in the backcountry, I tailor each shoot to reflect your unique style, personality, and vision. Together, we’ll discuss the perfect locations, the vibe you want to create, and any special details that will make your shoot unforgettable.

What to expect:

• A pre-shoot consultation to discuss your ideas, locations, and goals for the day.

• Collaboration on the best time of day for lighting, whether it’s a sunrise session or the golden hour before sunset.

• A focus on capturing natural moments that reflect who you are.

2. A bit of Adventure!

One of the exciting aspects of an adventure photo shoot is that it often involves some light hiking or traveling to unique locations that aren't easily accessible by car. Depending on your shoot, this might mean a short hike to a hidden waterfall, a steep climb up a mountain trail, or even boarding a helicopter to land at a remote mountaintop. While I’ll make sure everything is as smooth as possible, there’s a sense of adventure that comes with every shoot.

What to expect:

• Some physical activity: We’ll be walking, hiking, or perhaps climbing to get to the perfect shot location.

• A mix of accessible and rugged terrain: Depending on your shoot, be prepared for both comfortable paths and uneven, challenging ground.

• Comfortable yet stylish gear: If you’re doing a heli-wedding, family shoot, or engagement session, dress in a way that suits both your style and the outdoor environment.

3. Flexibility & Patience for the Perfect Shot

Adventure photo shoots take time, especially when we’re working in unpredictable natural environments. We might have to wait for the perfect lighting, or sometimes a cloud or gust of wind may add unexpected beauty to your photos. I always advise my clients to be patient and flexible, as nature doesn’t always work on a schedule, but the results are always worth it.

What to expect:

• We might spend some time waiting for optimal lighting or weather conditions.

• Natural elements like wind, clouds, or rain might create unique photo opportunities. I’m skilled at adapting to these moments and using them to our advantage.

• A variety of candid and posed photos: We'll take some time for both posed portraits and capturing those beautiful spontaneous moments that naturally occur during the shoot.

4. A Focus on Safety and Comfort

While we’re out exploring the backcountry, your safety and comfort are always my top priority. If we’re hiking or climbing to a specific spot, I’ll ensure we’re prepared with the right gear, and I'll guide you through any challenging terrain. For heli-shoots, I work closely with experienced pilots to ensure the flight is smooth and safe. You can feel confident that I’m there to keep you safe while capturing your best moments.

What to expect:

• Clear safety instructions before the shoot: From helicopter rides to hiking tips, I’ll ensure you feel comfortable and prepared.

• Gear recommendations: If we’re heading into more rugged terrain, I’ll suggest proper footwear and clothing to keep you comfortable.

• A focus on your well-being: I’ll be monitoring your energy levels and keeping track of the conditions to ensure you’re always safe.

5. A Full Range of Photos: From Intimate Portraits to Candid Moments

The beauty of an adventure shoot is that it gives us the freedom to create a diverse range of photos. We'll focus on capturing beautiful posed portraits, but also spontaneous, candid shots that showcase the natural chemistry and emotion between you and your loved ones. Whether you’re laughing together, sharing a quiet moment, or having a blast exploring a new place, these real, authentic moments are what make adventure photo shoots truly special.

What to expect:

• A mix of posed and candid shots: I’ll guide you through a few poses, but most of the time, I’ll be documenting your raw emotions and interactions.

• Action shots: If you’re hiking or exploring, expect some action shots that capture the energy of the day.

• Romantic and adventurous moments: Whether it’s a helicopter flight or a mountain summit, these locations provide incredible backdrops for breathtaking photos.

6. A Truly Unique and Memorable Experience

An adventure photo shoot isn’t just about the photos—it’s about creating memories. It’s about the journey you take together, the laughter, the excitement, and the beauty of the wild landscape around you. It’s a day you’ll never forget, and the photos we capture will reflect that adventure, turning these moments into timeless keepsakes you can cherish forever.

What to expect:

• A fun, relaxed experience: Adventure shoots are meant to be enjoyable and memorable.

• Stunning images that tell a story: Whether it’s a wedding or a family portrait, your photos will reflect the unique, personal adventure you’ve experienced together.

• A sense of fulfillment: By the end of the shoot, you’ll feel like you’ve accomplished something special—and have incredible photos to prove it.

Final Thoughts: Get Ready for the Adventure of a Lifetime

An adventure photo shoot is more than just a photoshoot—it’s an experience that’s as unforgettable as the images it produces. From awe-inspiring landscapes to candid moments of joy, you’ll walk away with a collection of memories that will last a lifetime.

If you're ready to plan your own adventure shoot, get in touch! We're here to help make your dream photoshoot a reality, and can’t wait to capture your adventure in the stunning beauty of the great outdoors.