Riva and Lukas are my kind of people.

Happy, playful, and completely comfortable being themselves together. Those are some of my favorite couples to photograph because the best images happen when people stop worrying about “posing” and just enjoy each other.

And these two were SO good at that.

We headed to McKee Bridge in the Applegate Valley for their spring engagement session, and it was such a beautiful setting for their sweet, fun energy. The river, trees, bridge, and natural surroundings gave us the perfect backdrop for a relaxed afternoon of exploring and creating some magic.

But the best addition to the session?

Wally. 🐾

Their sweet floofy pup joined them, and obviously I was thrilled. I will never get tired of couples bringing their dogs along. They’re such an important part of life, and including them makes the photos feel even more personal and meaningful.

Wally fit right in with their playful vibe, and watching the three of them interact was the cutest thing.

Riva and Lukas are the kind of couple who make each other laugh easily. They snuggled, played, and were totally willing to be a little silly, which is exactly what makes engagement sessions so much fun.

And then they got in the water.

I’m always a fan of couples who are willing to embrace a little adventure, and these two absolutely did. They played, splashed around, and created some of my absolute favorite images from their session.

Those photos where couples are laughing, moving, and forgetting the camera is even there?

That’s the good stuff.

Spring in the Applegate Valley is such a beautiful time for photos, too. Everything feels fresh and green, the river is gorgeous, and the whole area has such a peaceful, outdoorsy feel.

Riva and Lukas, thank you for such a fun afternoon! I loved photographing your playful love, your sweet connection, and of course, your adorable furry sidekick.

I’m obsessed with these images, and I’m so excited for the next chapter of your story. 🤍🐾🌿