There’s something so magical about a Montana engagement session with the Mission Mountains providing a stunning, dream-like backdrop. For Rilee and Colby, this session wasn’t just about capturing pretty pictures – it was about slowing down and celebrating their story. This session was a reminder that engagement photos should emphasize authentic connection, not posed perfection.

In this blog, I’ll share a little about Rilee and Colby’s story, their Charlo Montana engagement session and tips for couples planning their own Mission Valley engagement session.

Why Choose the Mission Mountains for your Engagement Session

How do you picture your perfect engagement photos? If they include a background made up of breathtaking, towering Mountains and the quiet, calmness of small town Montana, the Mission Valley with Mission Mountain views is the perfect location for your Montana engagement session.

There’s a handful of easily accessible locations within the Mission Valley that give you stunning views of the Mission Mountains. From state managed Wildlife Management Areas to federally managed National Wildlife Refuges, you have a variety of perfect spots to choose from. There are just a few things you need to remember:

1. Some locations require a commercial use permit for photographers to use them for sessions.
2. Certain locations are closed during specific times of the year.
3. ALWAYS respect the location – clean up after yourselves and respect the rules and regulations so we can continue to enjoy these areas and capture the stunning scenery.

As a local Montana Wedding and Couples Photographer, I can offer location recommendations and help navigate the rules and regulations for each location.

Rilee and Colby’s Story

How They Met

Rilee and Colby met at a wedding in 2019. They were set up by friends, and as Rilee said, “We’ve been together since the day we met.” Their first official date was a dinner date the day after Rilee got her wisdom teeth removed. Even though she couldn’t actually eat, it clearly went well – and you can tell that they’re completely head over heels for each other!

The Proposal

Colby planned a picnic proposal at the top of a hiking trail with beautiful scenic views… but they never made it to the top. Colby started tearing up as soon as they hit the trail. In Rilee’s words, “Even without the view, he brought a good picnic and I was pretty endeared by his excitement – so it all went perfectly!”

Their Mission Valley Engagement Session

Rilee and Colby showed up to their Mission Valley engagement session with lots of love, a couple cowboy hats and the cutest pair of blue cowboy boots I’ve ever seen.

I first met them during our consultation call to discuss photographing their June 2026 wedding in Whitehall, Montana. To say I’m beyond excited is an understatement! Not only does their wedding sound like it’s going to be perfect but they are also incredibly sweet and so obviously in love. 

When they booked me to photograph their wedding, I offered them a complimentary Montana engagement session – and of course, they instantly said yes! (I mean, who wouldn’t want complimentary engagement photos?!)

Their Charlo Montana engagement session with Mission Mountain views was an absolute dream and I can’t wait to photograph their wedding this summer!

The Session Experience

Rilee and Colby’s Montana engagement session was filled with laughter, connection and those small, candid moments that make engagement photos so special. We started the session just before the golden light began to spill across the valley – right before that perfect Montana sunset that photographers dream about.

They brought props that reflected their personalities, including cowboy hats and blue boots, which added such a fun and playful vibe to the photos. I love when couples embrace what makes them them. It makes such a huge difference in their photos.

I prioritized natural poses and prompts, focusing on connection and authenticity. Real, organic moments like a shared laugh or sweet kiss became the heart of their session.

My favorite part? Watching how genuinely present and in love they were with each other. Montana engagement sessions are all about slowing down, soaking in the scenery and letting the couples personalities lead – and Rilee and Colby KILLED it!

Whether you’re planning a session near the Mission Mountains or somewhere else in Montana, my advice is simple: if you bring props, make sure it’s something that makes you feels excited (ahem – cute blue boots!), embrace the views and don’t stress about getting the ‘perfect’ shot. The most meaningful photos come from authenticity and connection, not perfection.

Tips for Planning Your Montana Engagement Session

Are you in the process of planning your Montana engagement session? There are a few things that can make your experience even more magical and stress-free!

Here are my top tips for couples planning their own Montana engagement session:

1. Choose your timing wisely: Golden hour (the hour before sunset) is my favorite time to shoot engagement sessions in Montana. The light is soft, warm and dreamy; and it’s usually followed by a breath-taking sunset. If evenings aren’t your thing, early morning sessions are also beautiful, calm and peaceful.
2. Dress for the location: Montana is stunning but it can also be unpredictable. Bring extra layers and shoes just in case. Also, props like cowboy boots or hats always add personality and a Montana touch!
3. Keep props meaningful: Try to keep props authentic to you. Choose something that makes you happy or has sentimental value. I’m gonna mention the cute boots one more time – cute boots, a favorite blanket or a picnic are great options!
4. Embrace the views: Montana has so many incredible backdrops. Let the scenery inspire you.
5. Hire a photographer who knows Montana: A local photographer is going to know all the best spots, best timing for the perfect lighting and the rules for public lands – which can lead to a smooth, stress free and unforgettable engagement session.

If you’re dreaming of your own Montana engagement session with Mission Mountain views, I’d love to capture your love story. Contact me today to start planning your session!

Outfits & Accessories

1. Brown Cowboy Boots: Ariat
2. Black Hat: Cody James
3. White Hat: Justin
4. Rilee’s Jeans: 7 for all mankind
5. Engagement Ring: Miller’s Jewelry in Bozeman, MT

checkout more of my work at Stacy Edwards Photography or fill out the contact form!