Nestled away in Austin Texas Adia & Luke make their life and love vibe out to the fullest. So when they reached out to work together on dreaming up their engagement session I was stoked. These two are a dream to work with, and their love story is nothing short of inspiring.

After some brainstorming we landed on two breathtaking locations in Texas: Hotel Viata and Hamilton Pool. I mean, could they have picked two more perfect spots?

Hotel Viata

Hotel Viata is a such a hidden gem in the heart of Texas. The modern architecture and chic decor provided a sophisticated backdrop for their photos. As soon as we arrived, I knew we nailed it. We started with some playful and intimate images at their bar, with Adia’s regal dress and Luke’s crispy wears adding a timeless touch. As they were sipping martinis and toasting to their future the photos started flowing.

The sunset was nice imminently approaching and I knew we had to hustle if we were going to get to Hamilton Pool in good time. Some quick billiards and romantic veranda photos later and we were on our way.

The sunset was nice imminently approaching and I knew we had to hustle if we were going to get to Hamilton Pool in good time. Some quick billiards and romantic veranda photos later and we were on our way.

One thing I always want couples I work with to be mindful of is how fast time flies during sessions that are more adventurous like this one. Find you a photographer that will guide you through all these logistics while taking into account the looks you two are dreaming up for your final images. If your goal is to create dynamic images in dynamic places meeting with your photographer is so key. I meet with my couple’s at least a couple of times prior to adventurous sessions like this to really iron out logistics and timing. That way we can have the best chance at creating the images we’re dreaming up, or better.

Hamilton Pool is pure enchantment and only takes an easy hike to get to the main location. This natural swimming pool, formed by a collapsed grotto, is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery and when we were there we even had some sizable icicles on hand. The photo above is not from Adia & Luke’s engagement session but it is an example of how the time of year really effects how this geological beauty looks. The crystal-clear water, cascading waterfall, and serene environment create a fairy tale setting that’s perfect for capturing your love.

We made it to Hamilton Pool at the perfect time, for starters it was right around Christmas so we avoided a lot of the crowds and a punishing heat index. It takes a bit to get there, but my oh my, was it worth it.

During our planning period leading up to this engagement photography adventure we met a couple of times virtually for styling sessions. Adia was adimate about finding the 2 perfect dresses that would “WOW” at either location, especially at Hamilton Pool. Her dynamic red dress was the perfect compliment visually to the surrounding browns and reds in the rocks and trees. Something we definitely took into consideration during the planning process. Luke could be wearing anything he wanted as long as he brought those SMEYES.

As we descended further into the canyon, the beauty of the place took our breath away. We timed our arrival to catch the golden hour here as well. The light filtering through the trees created an ethereal ambiance and glow. Adia and Luke looked like they stepped out of a storybook, their joy and love shining through every image. We had the place to ourselves and that is a bit of the luck of the engagement session and and product of good planning.

Often couples hire me because I will make photos of them looking great in epic locations. There’s one catch, if there is water nearby I am for sure going to ask you if you are willing to get in it, yes even if it is cold. As I hoped Adia and Luke both said yes to some photos in the water but their boundary was lower legs only. That is a boundary I can work with. What I loved most about working with Adia and Luke was how collaborative they were from outfits to locations to comfort levels.

Here is Adia and Luke contemplating what I have asked of them and what they’ve agreed to.

They were SO BRAVE!!

Once they ventured into the 52 degree water they easily fell into the moment. Adia and Luke were naturals in front of the camera, their love and connection palpable in every image. They laughed, they danced, and they shared quiet moments that I was privileged to capture.

Once Luke had enough Adia dug deep and stayed in for a few more gorgeous solo images really exhibiting her vibrant red dress in this unique space.

A quick heads-up about Hamilton Pool: it’s a popular spot, and to manage the number of visitors, they require reservations in advance. It’s totally worth it for the experience and the stunning photos you’ll get. Also, for photographers, there’s an additional permit required if you’re planning a professional shoot, so make sure to plan ahead and secure that to avoid any last-minute hiccups.

Quick Tips For Hamilton Pool:

• Make sure you check out the website to see what parts of the park are accessible and if there is water access or not. It often depends on rain/snowfall.
• Make a reservation and try to avoid peak times of day/year so you don’t have to navigate too many hikers/people and you can get the photos you want easier.
• Dress for the weather and use proper footwear, you . If it is chilly make sure to wear clothing under your fancy clothes or have something big and warm to wrap up in after your session or during breaks.
• Challenge yourself, the water is cold but worth it and the caliber of your photos will sky rocket along with your bravery and dopamine levels.
• Be up to date on the water quality if you plan on swimming. Depending on rainfall and heat the water can have higher than safe bacteria levels and access to it will be denied. The Reserve has a staff member down by the pool making sure there is no funny business and people are obeying the rules.
• Also be up to date on what areas of the pool are open and what are closed. This way you can kind of plan your photos and have appropriate expectations. When we were there for this session the whole back area within the cavern and on top of it was closed but that isn’t always the case.

In the end, we got some seriously stunning images that Adia and Luke will cherish for a lifetime. I’m so grateful to have been a part of their love story, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for these two. Cheers to Adia and Luke, and here’s to many more adventures together!