Mid-October proved to be the perfect time to head to Lawton for this cooler than ice cold couple for their Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge engagement portraits. (Seriously, Hannah and Randy are too cool. I kept thinking while editing these images, I am 100% good with the fact that my clients are 100% cooler than me!)
We carpooled together from Oklahoma City to Lawton for their portraits, and had such great conversations in the car. It really helped to ease them into the session once we began. They seemed instantly comfortable even though it was their first time in front of my camera.
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge engagement portraits
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is located in southwestern Oklahoma near Lawton. With nearly 60,000 acres of protected land, you will not get bored exploring backdrops for portraits here. The refuge has protected unique wildlife habitats since 1901 and is the oldest managed wildlife facility in the United States Fish and Wildlife Service system. It is home to 806 plant species, 240 species of birds, 36 fish, and 64 reptiles and amphibians. During our two hours here, we enjoyed sights of many of the plant species and even a handful of birds flying overhead.
Hannah and Randy chose to stick to one outfit during their session, which kept things simple and elegant. The color choices and comfort level kept them looking great in all of the locations we ventured to. I’m a big fan of both flowy dresses and leather jackets, so this duo really had me in heart eyes.
A secret elopement and a surprise reception
The following summer after their engagement portraits, Hannah and Randy secretly eloped in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. A few days later, they surprised their wedding guests in Oklahoma City with the elopement video and celebrated their wedding reception.
Gathering Sunshine creates authentic engagement portrait photography for genuine spirits, celebrating the power of connection. Based in Oklahoma, I am passionate about telling your story as it authentically unfolds. What excites me most about photography after nearly two decades are the endlessly creative, imaginative and remarkably kind people I’ve had the pleasure to meet and work with. As you’re in the process of looking for the Oklahoma engagement portrait photographer who will capture your vision, I would love to connect and hear your story.