Whitefish Cabin Engagement Photos | Ryan + Tomiko

Introduction

I had such a beautiful time with Ryan and Tomiko at their Whitefish cabin engagement photo session. We laughed, we cried, we did everything to show these two as they ACTUALLY are and their love as it ACTUALLY is — it was such a beautiful experience. Keep reading to learn more about this gorgeous couple and to get some fall cabin engagement photo inspo.

Ryan and Tomiko

Ryan and Tomi met at a mutual friends’ wedding — Ryan was the officiant for Tiff and Sam who he grew up with. Tiff and Tomi became friends through Pure Barre and their wedding was at the Wilma with the bluegrass band. Ryan and Tomi were introduced by various friends multiple times and then he asked her to dance. Tomi had never listened to bluegrass and said, “I don’t know how to dance to this” and he replied: “I’ll show you!” And proceeded to swing her around as they laughed. The rest is history!

Tomiko’s response to the Whitefish cabin engagement photos:

“My God these are the most beautiful pictures I’ve ever seen, Shayna- thank you, thank you, thank you! The gallery made me cry. This entire experience was so beautiful in every way, I’ll cherish it and the love I felt by you. You are a sun gem and we’re so lucky to be in your life.”

Side-note, that was the first time I’ve ever been called a sun gem and I really love it lmao!!

Whitefish, Montana Engagement Photos

Whitefish is such a rad location for engagement photos, and this little A-Frame cabin on Whitefish Lake was PERFECT for Ryan and Tomiko. They are so low-key — Tomi said that every day is a slumber party! He’s truly her best friend. They check in throughout the day and support each other when they’re having tough days at work- then come home to have dinner and end the day watching movies, eating snacks, and cuddling.

Sooo: as simple as it was, that was the basis for the shoot: cuddling on the couch and eating snacks haha!!

Why you should add video to your Montana engagement session:

I loveeee when my couples opt for a hybrid photo/video engagement session so that I can incorporate the video from their session into their final wedding film later on, like I did for Ryan and Tomi. Watch below!

Cabin couples’ outfit inspo

Looking for some outfit inspo for your engagement photos? Take a cue from Ryan and Tomiko's laid-back vibe during their fall shoot in Whitefish, Montana. Ryan rocked a classic flannel button-down, giving off those cozy cabin vibes, while Tomiko kept it chill in a white long-sleeve sweater. Their outfits weren't matchy-matchy, but they totally coordinated and felt totally them. They weren't worried about being super fancy; they just wanted to feel comfortable and show off their true selves. And you know what? They nailed it. So, future couples, keep it easy, stay comfy, and let your personalities shine through your outfits. Trust me, you'll feel your best and look amazing in your engagement photos.

Gorgeous handmade beaded earrings by Miko Japanese Beads

Tomiko is also an incredible jewelry designer and artist. If you want stunning handmade beaded jewelry made by the best human, then shop local and snag a piece from MIKO Japanese Beads. Every piece is locally made in Missoula, Montana and inspired by nature.

Fall engagement photos in Whitefish, Montana

Fall is such a wild card in Montana that planning for an in-home (in-cabin?? lol) lifestyle session is such a safe bet, but you can still take advantage of the gorgeous fall colors by venturing outside for a bit! We reallyyyy leaned into the season with Ryan + Tomi’s shoot when we went outside — Tomi opted for a cutie ear warmer headband while we were out, Ryan went full lumberjack building a fire, and they enjoyed s’mores and cocoa.

Cabin engagement photo activity inspo

Maybe you love the idea of a cabin as your engagement photo location, but you’re not sure how to incorporate activities that reflect your personalities. I’ve got you!! Ryan + Tomi love music, so I knew the record player would be perfect, for example. They also love cards, so we warmed up with a card game. It doesn’t have to be anything crazy!

Here are some ideas for you:

Morning coffee ritual on the cabin's deck or patio
Stargazing session with blankets and hot cocoa
Hammock cuddling and reading books together
DIY craft project, such as making a scrapbook of memories or painting
Couples' yoga or meditation session in a scenic outdoor spot
Cozy fireside moments
Cooking together
Outdoor adventures (hiking, exploring trails)
Relaxing on the porch
Games and activities (board games, horseshoes)
Romantic dinners

Fun ideas for a Whitefish engagement/couples session

Here are some fun ideas for you to consider if you want to plan your engagement session in Whitefish, Montana!

Whitefish restaurants, bars, and wineries

Hiking + biking trails in Whitefish, Montana

Adventurous Activities to do in Whitefish, Montana

Whitefish Lake: Swim or enjoy water sports at Whitefish Lake! Whitefish Lake is stunning and one of my favorite parts of the Whitefish area.
Ski at Big Mountain/Whitefish Mountain Resort
Take a day trip to Glacier National Park

Cozy places to stay in Whitefish, Montana

Whitefish, Montana Engagement Photographer and Videographer

Heyyy, I’m Shay, your Whitefish, Montana engagement photographer and videographer. If you love story-driven photos and films, then head over to the info + pricing page to learn more and be sure to fill out the contact form so I can hear allll about your vision and get back to you to answer your questions and plan your dream session. :) Chat soon!!