Grand Teton Engagement Session | Claire + Fermin | Jackson Hole Couples Photographer

Claire + Fermin | Grand Teton Couples Session

Claire and Fermin’s couples session in Grand Teton National Park was the perfect mix of playful energy, quiet connection, and epic mountain scenery. It was over 2 years since I shot their proposal at Glacier View, and since they visit every year in May, it was the perfect time for an Anniversary Session! Their session was effortless, joyful, and they were completely themselves.

The Grand Tetons provided a stunning backdrop for their session, with towering peaks, open spaces, and soft natural light that made every moment feel cinematic. Sessions like this are exactly why I love photographing couples in the Tetons. And May is one of my all time favorite times to shoot in the Tetons! With snow capped mountains, slower tourism season, and beautiful clouds and overcasts throughout the month, it’s a dream to photograph in!

Why May and June are some of the Best Months for Couples Photos in the Grand Tetons

May and June are hands down some of my favorite months to photograph couples in the Tetons. You get a unique combination of dramatic scenery and a quieter, more intimate experience in the park.

Here’s why May & June are so special:

• Snow-capped mountain peaks with lower-elevation access

• Fewer crowds compared to peak summer months

• Moody skies, soft overcast light, and dramatic clouds

• Cooler temperatures that make sessions more comfortable

For couples who want iconic Grand Teton scenery without the summer rush, May or June are incredible choices.

For couples sessions in Grand Teton National Park, I focus on movement, connection, and letting moments unfold naturally rather than stiff posing. Claire and Fermin leaned fully into that approach, which allowed their personalities and relationship to truly shine through in their photos.

If you’re nervous about being in front of the camera, don’t worry. Most couples tell me that within the first few minutes, it feels more like a fun date than a photo shoot. I heard many times from the men how much better the session was than what they thought it’d be! Often couples will say “We’re awkward, we don’t know what to do or how to pose”. I sometimes chuckle a little because most people don’t take photos everyday, while I do! So that’s 100% my job to take care of! And I’m happy to do it!

Why the Grand Tetons Are Perfect for Couples & Engagement Photos

The Grand Tetons are one of the most iconic locations for couples photography, and for good reason.

Some of what makes the Tetons such an incredible place for engagement and couples sessions:

• Dramatic mountain peaks visible from almost every angle

• Open meadows, lakes, and scenic pull-offs for variety

• Beautiful light coming behind the mountains in the evenings

• A natural, timeless look that never feels trendy or dated

Claire and Fermin’s session captured all of that. Epic scenery paired with moments that feel personal and meaningful.

Planning Your Own Grand Teton Couples or Engagement Session

If you’re considering a Grand Teton engagement session, couples shoot, or even an elopement, sessions like Claire and Fermin’s are a great example of what’s possible. You don’t need a big production, just a beautiful location, intentional time together, and a photographer who knows how to work with both light and emotion.

I help all of my couples with:

• Location suggestions inside and outside the park

• Best time of day for lighting and crowds

• Outfit guidance that photographs beautifully in the Tetons

• Creating a relaxed, stress-free experience

Claire and Fermin’s Grand Teton couples session was a beautiful reminder of why documenting your relationship, no matter the season, is so meaningful. These photos aren’t just about how things looked, but about preserving how this chapter of life felt.

If you’re dreaming of authentic couples photos in the Grand Tetons, whether for an engagement, anniversary, or just because, I’d love to help you plan a session that feels natural, relaxed, and true to you.

Reach out here to book your Grand Teton couples or engagement session.

Top Reasons to Choose a Small Dispersed Ceremony in Grand Teton National Park

Why a Small Ceremony in Grand Teton National Park Could Be Your Best Decision

Planning a wedding or elopement in Grand Teton National Park is a dream come true for many couples. The jagged peaks, serene lakes, and breathtaking landscapes offer an unparalleled backdrop for saying “I do.” However, securing your perfect location in such a popular park requires some strategy. If you’re considering a wedding here, opting for a small ceremony—12 people or fewer, including your photographer—can make all the difference. Here’s why:

The Benefits of a Small Dispersed Ceremony Permit

Grand Teton National Park offers two types of wedding permits:

1. Small Dispersed Ceremony Permits: For groups of 12 or fewer, these permits allow couples to hold their ceremony in a wide variety of locations, including those not accessible to larger groups.

2. Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permits: For groups of 13–40, these permits are limited to a select number of pre-approved ceremony locations.

If you’re dreaming of tying the knot at an iconic spot like Mormon Row or Schwabacher’s Landing, you’ll need a reserved permit for larger groups. Unfortunately, these permits can sell out months in advance. By limiting your guest list to 12 or fewer, you gain access to a small dispersed ceremony permit, which allows you to book stunning, less crowded locations, some of which are unavailable to larger groups.

Locations like Cascade Canyon, Cathedral Group, or even backcountry settings become possible with this permit. These unique spots provide a more intimate and adventurous experience, perfect for couples who want a wedding as extraordinary as their love story. As long as public is allowed, it’s usually something you can reserve for Small Dispersed Ceremonies. More details are available on GTNP permit site about allowed locations.

Weekday Elopements: Unlock Better Availability and Rates

Weekday weddings offer another significant advantage for couples planning a Grand Teton elopement. Most visitors flock to the park on weekends, making weekdays far less crowded. Here’s why a weekday elopement is worth considering:

• Higher Chances of Securing Your Dream Location: Popular spots like Blacktail Pond Overlook or Mormon Row are less crowded on weekdays, giving you more flexibility with your ceremony timing and location.

• Vendor Availability and Discounts: Photographers, florists, officiants, and other vendors often have more availability on weekdays, and may even offer discounted rates.

• Lower Lodging Costs: Jackson Hole and the surrounding areas are known for their luxury lodging, but prices tend to drop midweek. You’ll not only save money but may also find it easier to book accommodations closer to the park.

Other Tips for Your Grand Teton Wedding or Elopement

• Plan Ahead: Whether you’re booking a dispersed permit or a reserved site-specific permit, start the application process as early as possible. Permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t wait until the last minute. You can find more details on permit requirements HERE.

• Respect Park Regulations: Grand Teton National Park has strict rules to protect its natural beauty. For small dispersed ceremonies, ensure your chosen location adheres to Leave No Trace principles and follows park guidelines.

• Consider an Adventure Session: If you’re drawn to unique locations like Cascade Canyon or Cathedral Group but want a simpler ceremony spot, consider doing an adventure photography session in these breathtaking areas after your vows. This is great for anyone who decided to do a ceremony locally, but still wants epic photos during their vacation or Honeymoon.

• Hire a Photographer Familiar With the Park: Grand Tetons weather, lighting, and terrain can be unpredictable. Working with a local photographer (like me!) who knows the best locations and timing ensures your day runs smoothly and you get stunning photos.

Crafting an Intimate and Memorable Experience

Choosing a small, intimate ceremony allows you to focus on what truly matters: celebrating your love with the most important people in your life. With fewer logistics to manage, you can immerse yourself in the experience of your wedding day, surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of Grand Teton National Park.

By limiting your guest list, you gain access to incredible ceremony locations, avoid crowds, and create a day that’s truly unique. Pair this with the perks of a weekday elopement, and you have the recipe for an unforgettable celebration.

If you’re ready to start planning your Grand Teton or Jackson Hole elopement, I’d love to help! As a local photographer specializing in intimate weddings and elopements, I’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure your day is stress-free and absolutely magical.

Let’s make your dream wedding in the Tetons a reality—contact me today to get started!

Grand Tetons Summer Proposal • Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Lauren and Austin's love story took a breathtaking turn in September. With this stunning Cascade location inside Grand Teton National Park, Austin dropped to one knee, sparking a whirlwind of joy, laughter, and tears. I remember how excited Austin was for this moment as we chatted on the phone weeks before. He even pulled up Lauren's Pinterest and inspiration boards to find a photographer who matched her desired style of documenting and editing! He really went the extra mile for this moment to also make sure Lauren would love the photos!

Jackson Hole, Wyoming holds a special place for Lauren since she visited every summer with her family and would explore and hike in Grand Teton National Park. I loved that we were able to incorporate this very sentimental area into their proposal and engagement photos.

From the moment the session began both Lauren and Austin’s energy was contagious. I wish these two were locals so I could be best friends with them! Their love was effortless to photograph. It wasn’t just a proposal; it was a celebration of their connection, surrounded by the most majestic mountains.

Lauren and Austin’s engagement is a reminder that the best moments in life are the ones we embrace with open hearts and unfiltered joy. Here’s to a lifetime of love, adventure, and laughter for Lauren and Austin! Enjoy reliving their proposal through these images!