Not Every Love Story Belongs in a Golden Field: Choosing a Backdrop That Actually Fits You
When you scroll through Instagram, it’s easy to believe every couple belongs in a glowing field at sunset. Soft light, tall grasses, warm tones… it looks dreamy. It’s beautiful. But here’s the truth I’ve learned after photographing so many couples:
Not every love story belongs in a golden field.
Some couples look their most alive on a windswept ridge.
Some ground themselves near water—calm lakes, crashing waves, foggy mornings.
Some feel at home in dense forests where the light filters through like a secret.
And some? They thrive in the quiet corners: a rocky overlook, a patch of moss, a worn trail they’ve walked a hundred times.
The magic happens when the backdrop matches the relationship.
Why Your Location Matters More Than You Think
A backdrop isn’t just scenery—it sets the emotional tone of your photos.
Warm fields create softness and romance.
Mountains add grit, adventure, and scale.
Forests bring mystery and intimacy.
Coastlines bring openness and movement.
When the vibe of the location doesn’t match your connection, the photos can feel a little… off. Almost like you’re playing a role.
But when you’re in a place that reflects you? Everything falls into place.
Your shoulders drop.
Your laughs come easier.
Your movements feel natural.
Your connection shines without trying.
This is why I ask couples about their energy first—not aesthetics.
The Pinterest Trap
It’s so common for couples to pick a spot because it photographs well for other people.
But here’s the thing:
Someone else’s perfect location could completely swallow your story.
If you’re quiet, private, and soulful, a busy overlook won’t feel right.
If you’re playful and adventurous, a minimalist backdrop won’t capture your spark.
If you crave movement, a still meadow might not connect.
There’s no wrong preference. Only the wrong fit.
What I Ask My Couples Instead
Before planning an elopement or session, I ask:
Where do you feel the most like yourselves?
What landscapes do you naturally gravitate toward?
Do you want calm and intimate, or loud and adventurous?
Do you want to tuck into a place—or stand boldly on top of it?
These answers tell me more about your perfect backdrop than a Pinterest board ever could.
How I Help You Choose the Right Spot
Part of my job (and one of my favorite parts!) is location scouting.
I know the tucked-away ridgelines, forest pockets, gentle meadow corners, quiet lakes, and dramatic overlooks that fit different types of love stories. I also help you avoid choosing a location just because it’s popular or pretty.
If you’re an ocean soul, we’ll head to the coast.
If you’re a summit-seeker, we’ll hike.
If you’re soft and sentimental? Maybe a blooming field or lakeside dock.
If you’re bold, spirited, and wild—there’s a trail for you too.
Your location should feel like an extension of who you are—not a prop.
Because the right place doesn’t just look good… it feels good.
And that feeling translates into photos that actually mean something years from now.
Instead of “Oh yeah, that’s that pretty spot we found.”
You say, “That’s so us.”
That’s the goal.
