Courtney + Matt’s Sunset Engagement Photos at Onondaga Lake

Courtney, Matt, and I met up at Onondaga Lake one evening over Labor Day weekend to capture some delicious golden sunset engagement photos. While it was still summer (and sure felt like it), they wanted their photos to have a fall feel, so they dressed the part and did a great job enduring the warm temps.

Onondaga Lake was the perfect spot for this session. The part of the park we chose boasts tons of natural elements like pampas grass, trees, open fields, and of course water, which gave us tons of variety in the images.

We eased into the session with some of my simple go-to poses to help them shake off the day and settle into a feeling of connection with each other. I love working in some walking shots too, since they’re effortless but usually result in smiles and laughter. Photos where my couples are laughing are truly my favorite! This time in your lives should feel joyful and fun, and I love capturing that side of your relationship.

I found a large tree with fall colors starting to show, and it was stunning mixed with the golden hour light. After grabbing some photos in front of that, we headed down to the dock for some sweet pictures of Courtney and Matt just enjoying their time together.

We wandered back to the parking area so they could change into something more casual for our last few photos. I positioned them overlooking the lake right as twilight was approaching, then snapped a couple ring shots. They really wanted a photo of them doing a pinky promise, and it worked out perfectly because it showed off Courtney’s gorgeous engagement ring as well. What a sweet moment!

I can’t wait for their Curtis Manor wedding in the fall of 2024. We’re going to have the best time!