Fall Lake Engagement Photos on Lake Vermilion

Let’s talk about meaningful locations for a sec. You know how certain places feel like home, no matter how much time has passed? That’s what Lake Vermilion is for Ali. Her family has owned this cabin for years, and since she and Steven spend so many summers here, it only made sense to do their fall lake engagement photos in a place that meant something to them.

We shot their session in early October, so it was peak Minnesota fall—crisp air, golden trees, and that perfect mix of cozy and cold—where you want to bundle up but also reminds you winter is lurking around the corner. I’m obsessed with how this session turned out.

Ali & Steven’s Love Story

Some love stories have that full-circle energy, and Ali and Steven’s is definitely one of them. These two first met in fifth grade, and now, over nine years together, they’re planning forever. Childhood friends turned life partners. They’ve spent the last few years in Philadelphia, doing the whole post-grad, big city thing, but recently moved back to Minnesota, ready to start this next chapter. These two belong here. They’re getting married next September at the Minneapolis Club, which is timeless and classic.

Chilly & Cozy Fall Lake Vermilion Engagement Photos

Early October in Minnesota is crisp, chilly, and just on the edge of being too cold. But these two handled it like pros. They brought their mini schnauzer—who was the real star of the show. This little fella refused to be left out, inserting himself into every shot like he was born for the camera. I respect the hustle.

Between the lake views, the fall colors, and the effortless way these two are together, this session had cozy, sentimental vibes. And that shot of them walking down the dock—that one lives in my head rent-free.

Minneapolis-Based Wedding & Elopement Photographer

Anyone can take engagement photos in a pretty place. But when that place truly means something to you, the magic happens. This home on Lake Vermilion is woven into Ali and Steven’s story.

Hey, I’m Maddi, your Minnesota + destination wedding photographer, here for the big moments, the little ones, and everything in between. If you’re dreaming of engagement photos that feel like you—whether that’s your family cabin, your favorite coffee shop, or some wild corner of the earth that makes your heart happy—let’s make it happen.