When Drew and Emily envisioned their engagement session, they wanted something that reflected their love for the outdoors and the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. This winter engagement session in Houghton Michigan came together after a winter that had felt unusually bare with almost no snow, which is nearly unheard of around here.

Then, right on time, fresh lake-effect snow moved through the area. Overnight, it blanketed the towering pines around Houghton and transformed the forest into a quiet, snow-covered landscape. It felt calm, still, and fitting — the kind of setting that invites you to slow down and be fully present.

Fresh, Lake-Effect Snow and Pine Forrest Vibes in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

This winter had been an anomaly for the U.P., with hardly any snow for months. But the day before Drew and Emily’s session, several inches of fluffy, fresh lake-effect snow fell, just enough to coat the pines and soften the trails.

Every so often, a gentle breeze would shake snow loose from the branches, sending it drifting down around us. Those small moments added movement and opportunity to the session in a way you can’t plan for, which is one of the reasons winter engagement photos feel so unique.

 

How to Stay Comfortable During a Winter Engagement Session

Before we go any further, let’s talk about the biggest concern couples usually have with winter engagement sessions: the cold. It’s a valid concern, and the good news is that staying comfortable can be doable with a little intention.

Here’s what I recommend to keep winter engagement sessions relaxed and enjoyable:

• Dress in layers: Staying warm helps you relax, and we can always shift or remove layers for a few photos when needed.

• Choose insulating fabrics: Wool, knits, fleece-lined tights, and thicker coats make a noticeable difference.

• Plan for movement: Walking, standing close, and gentle motion help keep you warmer than standing still.

• Build in warm-up breaks: We move at an unhurried pace, and warming up in the car for a few minutes is always an option.

Comfort directly affects how relaxed you feel and relaxed couples always photograph better.

Warm and Genuine Moments with Drew and Emily

From the very start, Drew and Emily’s energy was easy and intimate. They’re the kind of couple who make you feel comfortable almost immediately — warm, kind, and completely at ease together.

We spent the session walking, talking, and laughing as we moved to keep warm and keep poses natural. Emily brought along a cozy blanket that became part of a few quieter, snuggly moments. One of my favorite images from the day is her looking directly into the camera — calm, confident, and completely herself.

Drew & Emily’s Love Story: From Nashville, Tennessee to Houghton, Michigan

Drew’s initial inquiry gave me a glimpse into their journey, and I knew right away that their session, and later their wedding, would be something special.

Their story began in Nashville, Tennessee, while Emily was finishing her degree at Trevecca Nazarene University and Drew was working as a security officer. They met when Emily locked her keys in her car and Drew answered the call, a small moment that ended up changing everything.

After months of long-distance phone calls, video chats, and time apart, Drew made a bold decision. In August 2022, he packed up his life and moved more than 900 miles to Houghton to be with Emily.

“I had embarked on a true adventure, the kind that old tales and storybooks and movies only talk about… And it is only just beginning.”

Their love grew stronger through the distance, and now they’re married. Their wedding on the shores of Lake Superior in Calumet was beautiful (a story for another time), but capturing this chapter of their journey will always be something I’m grateful for.

 

Choosing the Right Winter Location in Houghton

One of the keys to a successful winter engagement session is choosing a location that doesn’t require a long hike or constant exposure to wind. The Michigan Tech Trails were ideal for Drew and Emily. They’re scenic, can be accessible, and flexible depending on conditions.

When planning winter sessions, I always factor in:

• Wind exposure

• Ease of access

• Natural places to pause and warm up

• How the light moves through that location during winter

That kind of behind-the-scenes planning allows couples to focus on being together rather than on logistics.

Tips for Planning a Winter Engagement Session in the Upper Peninsula

If you’re considering a winter engagement session in the Upper Peninsula, I’m here to say — it’s worth it. A little preparation goes a long way.

Dress for the cold without overthinking it
Layered sweaters, flannels, and dressier winter coats photograph beautifully and keep you warm. We take breaks as needed, and bundling up between shots is encouraged.

Let winter light work in your favor
Sunny winter days bring sparkle and contrast, while overcast skies create soft, even light. Both pair beautifully with a natural, true-to-life editing style.

Embrace the season
Winter sessions are a bit more adventurous, but the stillness, texture, and quiet beauty of a snowy forest create images that feel timeless and grounded.

Why Winter Engagement Sessions Are Worth It

No two engagement sessions are ever the same. Even when couples choose similar locations or seasons, the experience and the images are shaped by the moment itself.

Winter is a huge part of life in the Upper Peninsula, and embracing it allows couples to create photos that feel rooted in place and time that are special to you. It might take a little sisu, but the calm, presence, and beauty winter brings are always worth it.

Embracing the U.P.’s Sisu

If you’re considering a winter engagement session in Houghton Michigan or elsewhere in the Upper Peninsula, I’d love to help you plan something that feels natural, meaningful, and true to you. More details about what a session includes can be found here. You can also learn more about how I approach sessions.