Let’s start off this Shenandoah couples photoshoot by painting a picture.
Imagine an evening in the Blue Ridge Mountains with the sun high but the weather unseasonably fair. Where the afternoon breeze sways in and out keeping air flowing and the early evening cool. There’s not a lot of moisture around and as the evening moves on, periodic clouds roll in but not enough to fully cover the sun. A gentle haze begins to settle in above the mountaintops producing sweet, dreamy lighting for an evening photoshoot. And as the sun sets, the sky fills with the most radiant golden hues among rich blues.
That’s the kind of evening Asia & Charle and I were able to experience in late August at Shenandoah National Park for their couples photoshoot.
A Few Tips to Keep in Mind for Your Shenandoah Couples Photoshoot
When you venture through Skyline Drive, depending on the time of year, you will find that sometimes it can get quite busy. Some of the parking at a handful of the trailheads can get full very fast, especially around sunset. My advice is to always have backup trails just in case. If you’re aiming for sunset timing, keep to the west side of the drive. Sunrise is always the east side. On this particular day we were lucky enough to find the parking spots at both locations and the final scenic overlook completely empty, a rare but delightful sight.
Another thing to keep in mind, some overlooks can be uneven and rocky or slick due to extra moisture. Always bring comfortable shoes with good treading on the bottom. You don’t want to risk slipping or getting water inside your shoes and socks. If you’re set on wearing more stylish shoes at the top, you can always carry the shoes up in a bag. Just be aware on how slick and rocky it can be if there has been any rain that day.
Starting Their Couples Photoshoot at the First Location: Timber Hollow Overlook
We started our evening meeting about 2.5 hours before sunset at an easy spot with little to no hiking called Timber Hollow Overlook. The area offered lots of lush foliage and easy accessibility. In this location you will probably run into a few other couples taking their evening photos as well. But it’s easy to swap in and out so everyone can get the views and shots needed.
Asia & Charle took their time and soaked in every moment during their Shenandoah couples photoshoot. Footing wasn’t an issue in this area since we stuck to the easy spots to get to. A lot of roaming around the green meadow, and taking in the sunlight and views atop a rocky lookout. Luckily the heat and sunlight wasn’t strong enough to make anyone uncomfortable. And after roaming around the lush vegetation, we stuck to the overlook wall where they could relax, sit together, and connect.
Their Final Stop: Little Stony Man Trail for Golden Hour Photos
Little Stony Man is one of those trailheads that has super limited parking. However, we were lucky enough to find spots for both cars, and the hike up was easygoing and quiet. The moment we reached the top, the sun was beginning its descent and you could not have asked for a better backdrop. Virginia is well-known for it’s unpredictable weather especially this far up. Storm or rain clouds roll in often and drench the surrounding areas. But this day was calm, with the sky opening up in warm tones of gold and pink and a small amount of haze. The stillness made it feel like we had the entire mountain to ourselves (which honestly, we did!)
Asia & Charle got right into it and became really playful during their couples photos. They recreated their first dance from their wedding day. They played tag with the extra space this spot provided. And they got close and intimate during times when the evening sunset was glowing at it’s peak. With a desire for a simple, carefree day, they didn’t add or bring any extra details with them. They were experiencing Shenandoah in all its glory for the first time and they were completely captivated by the views.
Atop Little Stony Man, Asia & Charle let the quiet beauty of Shenandoah National Park fully guide their couples session. The beautiful sunset and soft haze set the perfect backdrop as they played, danced, and shared sweet, personal moments fully connected in the simplicity of the day. By the end of it all, their love and laughter spoke to a truly unforgettable evening.
Want to create memories like Asia & Charle did? Let’s make it happen.
