Washington Adventure Photographer

Shalynn + Yvonne's Intimate PNW Elopement - Packwood, WA | Olympia Wedding Photographer

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Step 1: Move to the PNW

Step 2: Meet the love of your life

Step 3: Plan an Intimate PNW elopement at Mt. Rainier with only your closest friends and family, an awesome wedding planner (Erica from @thegreatestadventurewed of course) and an awesome photographer (hey that’s me! I’m fun and not nerdy at all, I swear hahah!)

That’s exactly what Shalynn + Yvonne did! Wellllll, minus the Mt. Rainier part. The October weather in Washington State is a little hard to predict and we happened to get one of those super rainy and foggy days where we couldn’t see the mountain. Don’t panic though guys, these lovely ladies will still get their dream photos. We’ll be heading up to Mt. Rainier for some beautiful follow up portraits next summer.

That all being said, I can’t even put in words what an amazing experience Shalynn + Yvonne’s magical little elopement was. They were surrounded by their closest friends and family and I was blown away at how kind, compassionate, funny and supportive they all were.

Intimate elopements have very quickly become some of my favorite events to capture. If you are considering an elopement give me a call and let’s make it happen!

Venue: Harder’s Cabin - Packwood, WA

Wedding Planner/Florist/Decor - Erica from The Greatest Adventure, Weddings + Elopements

Hair/Makeup Artist: Crystal from Opal Artistry Seattle

^^^Check these ladies out, they did such a great job and they were fun to work with!

Do you want memorable images of you and your love? What’s holding you back? Call me, let’s sit down for chips and salsa and chat about your ideal session.

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful.

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Becky + Stu's Ocean Shores Wedding | Olympia Wedding Photographer

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Getting married on a Washington beach in October when it will surely rain?? Sure, let’s do this!

The grey, cloud-filled skies formed the perfect stormy yet serene backdrop for Becky + Stu’s Ocean Shores nuptials. Cold and wind aside I loved every minute! I did however decide that I need an umbrella hat since I can’t carry an umbrella and both cameras at the same time!! That’s probably super nerdy but it’s totally going on my Christmas list!

Becky + Stu are a super laid-back, fun couple and I seriously spent the entire day smiling and laughing. Becky has this raw and authentic smile that just reveals what a genuine person she is. You can’t help but smile back, no matter you mood. Stu is witty and laughs with his whole being. It is easy to see why these two are drawn to each other and such a perfect match! Side note, Becky + Stu work with Oysters, check out the handmade Oyster cake topper, so unique!

After the ceremony the wedding party popped a few bottles of Champagne and toasted to the lovers! Soaked from head to toe we all headed back to the Inn to change clothes and then kick off cocktail hour. The Reception was held in a room in the Inn and was decorated in a beach theme with blue lights lighting up the walls, driftwood decorations and pictures of their travels on each table. Becky + Stu handmade candles, coated in sand as their wedding guest gifts! So thoughtful and different!

This was one of the most unique and fun weddings of my 2018 season and I’m so glad I got to be a part of it. Such a lovely couple, so many smiles and a fabulous, moody beach ceremony!

Congrats Becky + Stu!

Ocean Shores, I can’t wait to see you again!


Venue: Shilo Inns Ocean Shores

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XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Adventure Portrait Sessions: What They Are and Why You NEED One! | Olympia Wedding Photographer

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What is an adventure portrait Session?

An adventure portrait session is a great way to capture images of you and your babe while exploring the great Pacific Northwest. An adventure session throws traditional portrait locations to the wind in exchange for ones that are a bit more wild, natural and epic. They tend to be way more fun… and maybe a bit muddier!

Who is an adventure portrait session for?

Nature lovers, free-spirits and the adventurous at heart. If a bit of a drive or a hike doesn’t scare you then an adventure portrait session is for you! While adventure session are perfect for lovers and elopements, they are also great for senior sessions, bridal sessions and boudoir. So hike up your skirt and let’s go!

How much does an adventure session cost?

Price depends on the location you select as well as time needed for the adventure, see pricing HERE.

Things to consider when planning an adventure portrait session.

  • Time - How long will it take to drive to your desired location? If there is a hike, how long will it take?

  • Location - What sort of background appeals to you? Woods, mountains, water? All of them?? Maybe there is a place that has special memories for you?

  • When to schedule - This depends on your location…. places like Mt. Rainier close when there is snow but others like Gold Creek Pond are amazing in the winter! Also consider fall as a great time to book due to the auburn foliage, it’s pretty magical! Winter session can be foggy, snowy and majestic but there is a higher chance of rain…be prepared to shoot in the rain or reschedule.

  • Clothing - Select two or three outfits that don’t clash with the scenery. After all the view is why we are there! Think simple patterns, solid colors and fun hats. Bring or wear sensible shoes. Bring towels and a change of clothes in case you get wet.

  • Props - Best to keep it basic out in the wilderness but a cute little picnic, a bottle of champagne or a cozy blanket can all be great additions to your session.

  • Snacks- Exploring is hard work and we may build up an appetite! Bring plenty of food and water for our adventure.

Where are some great locations to do an adventure portrait session?

The possibilities are endless!

Below are just a few localish locations for an adventure portrait session. If you have another idea I'd love to go explore with you! I'm open to non-local adventure too, message me and let's start exploring!

Ask about my bucket list locations!

  • Ocean Shores

  • Rattlesnake Ledge

  • Mt. St. Helens

  • Alaska (My home state - let’s go!)

  • Tropical Beach (I’ll be your dive buddy!)

  • Scotland

Mt. Rainier

See more of Mt. Rainier

Lake Cushman

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Ruby Beach

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  • Amber + Steven Elopement

Rattlesnake Lake

See more of Rattlesnake Lake

Franklin Falls

See more of Franklin Falls

Gold Creek Pond

Deception Pass

See more of Deception Pass

Cannon Beach

See more of Cannon Beach

Manchester State Park

See more of Manchester State Park

Vantage

See more of Vantage, WA

Group Senior Shoot

For portrait location ideas closer to Olympia check out 10 Great Portrait Locations Near Olympia

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Tammy + Dan's Gold Creek Pond Vow Renewal | Olympia Wedding Photographer

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