I first met Dillon and his family at his older brothers wedding (shout out to Brayden and Aeva!) he was in high school then. But I am not exaggerating when I say that this wedding stood out in my mind. Not just because Brayden and Aeva are awesome (because they are) but because their family is awesome. This translated into getting the chance to photograph Dillions senior photos. It was here I had the chance to meet Eden, get to know Dillon more, and his family. In both cases my impression of them and who they are only increased. And I genuinely loved talking with them. So when I found out that Dillon was going to propose to Eden, and that I was being asked to be there, I was so excited. Proposals are some of my favorite things, such excitement and emotion it feels so visceral.

Noe and Ellie's New York City Engagement

This would mark the fifth time I've had the privilege of going to New York City, although this is the first time in the last decade. It is my favorite major city in the US, it has culture, people, nature, and of course, it may be the most “epic” of all city’s. That said, being able to do engagement photos with two exceptional people in one of the greatest cities on earth was a huge privilege. I absolutely loved my time with these two, they were funny, easy to talk to, and so thoughtful. Their story was so good - from what I remember - although because of my location I didn’t get the chance to write it down as I normally would.

Lake Tahoe Engagement With Joe and Crystal

You would think that I would get Joe and Crystal's story before anyone else, as I have spent more time with them than the vast majority of couples by the end of their engagement. We've shared a zoom call together, two meals, several drives, and climbed a (small) mountain. We've been to Tahoe, Reno, and had some awesome chicken. But in all those moments, in all those beautiful places I never had the chance to fully get their story. I know Joe saw Crystal on the beach and told her that he loved her Tattoos. I know Crystal thought "I'm on vacation, why not? I'll hang with this guy for a little bit" and I know that interaction ended up changing their lives forever.

Coeur d'Alene Wedding Photographer: Viktor & Rachel

Viktor and Rachel are two people I have enjoyed talking to since the day I met them. They were game when the place of meeting was closed and we ended up in Denny’s drinking hot chocolate. They seem like those type of people, ready to go for anything even when it isn’t ideal. That didn’t matter on their wedding day though, as things went so well. It was beautiful. Our weather was perfect, and the Barn on Wild Rose Prairie was as beautiful as ever (look no further than those sunset photos…) These two are kind and thoughtful, with some amazing families that I absolutely loved getting to know. I’m so excited to be the one who gets to share these photos with you, and I hope you love them!

Destination Engagement Photographer: Daniel & Janell

Daniel and Janell are clearly two amazing people. They are kind, easy to talk to, and game for anything. Look no further than these engagement photos (some of these places were NOT easy to get to). I had so much fun with both of them, so much so I didn't get to hear the full story of how they met because we were talking and joking about other things. I do know they met online, and that Daniel sent the first message (although he doesn't know what he said) and that it is through that one step of courage, that one step of "why not?" that this relationship was born. I also know that they don't love the same things.

Destination Photographer: Jacob & Allison's Airbnb Wedding

Something that has become so common this year is weddings going from 200 guests to 30 guests (or less). The number of guests at every wedding i’ve photographed (save maybe a couple) has been drastically reduced, and actually, i’ve really loved it. It’s let me get to know the people that are at the wedding even more, and hasn’t really made the day feel all that much smaller. Look no further than Jacob & Allison’s wedding, where just before their wedding the state of Washington changed the rules and required all ceremony’s to be under 30 people.

The Blog

Brent Looyenga is a Spokane wedding photographer based IN SPOKANE WASHINGTON and Coeur d’Alene Idaho area. He loves people and specializes in wedding, engagement, family and senior photography. You can like Looyenga Photography on Facebook or follow them on Instagram.