When a couple brings their dogs and a bottle of champagne to their engagement session, you know you’re in for something truly special. Courtney and Dylan’s Sope Creek engagement session was the perfect blend of earthy charm, sentimental connection, and laid-back elegance—all with a bit of summer heat to keep us moving.

Located just outside Atlanta, Sope Creek Trail offers a unique mix of scenic hiking paths, historic ruins, and tranquil water views. It’s one of those places where time slows down just enough to let love breathe—and that’s exactly what happened with these two.

Starting at the Lake | Pups, Champagne, and Quiet Moments

We kicked off their Sope Creek engagement session on the wooden deck overlooking the lake—an idyllic, peaceful spot nestled in the trees. The late afternoon light flickered through the canopy, giving us a soft glow as Courtney and Dylan sipped chilled champagne and took a quiet moment together. Their two dogs wandered nearby giving them some alone time.

It was hot and muggy in that classic Georgia summer kind of way, but these two never let it slow them down. They were all smiles, laughs, and their little gestures is what made the whole session feel intimate and authentic.

Courtney and Dylan standing at edge of wooden deck during their engagement session at Sope Creek
Couple sitting face to face on wooden deck at Sope Creek
Engagement couple toasting champagne by lake at Sope Creek Trail
Couple stealing a kiss during engagement session on wood deck along lake at Sope Creek
romantic couple smiling during engagement session at Sope Creek
Romantic and intimate moment along lake at Sope Creek

Into the Woods | Ruins, Romance, and the River

After a short hike, we arrived at the iconic Sope Creek ruins—a historic paper mill remnants cradled by lush forest and a babbling creek. It’s cinematic, slightly rugged, and incredibly romantic.

Courtney’s flowy dress moved effortlessly with the ever so slight breeze, and Dylan’s casual, clean style complemented the natural backdrop. Together, they looked completely at ease among the stonework and the rushing river behind it. We captured a series of portraits that balanced editorial drama with deep emotional connection—images that speak not only to their love but also to the legacy they’re building.

Groom-to-be gives his bride a tender kiss among the textured walls of Sope Creek ruins
Engaged couple laughing and sharing a candid moment inside the stone ruins along Sope Creek
Romantic close-up portrait against ruins at Sope Creek
Artistic photo of layered frame of couple against Sope Creek ruins
Couple pose between weathered stone columns of Sope Creek paper mill ruins during engagement session
Engaged couple laughing and shring a candid moment among the green foliage during engagement session at Sope Creek
Couple standing by river on downed tree trunks during engagement session at Sope Creek

The dogs joined in for a few frames too, perched among the rocks and greenery, part of this love story just as much as their humans.

Two dogs join couple during their engagement session at Sope Creek in Atlanta
Dogs with engaged couple sitting on rock along river at Sope Creek

Why We Love Sope Creek for Engagement Photos

For adventurous couples looking for a location with depth, variety, and natural charm, Sope Creek Trails offers it all: serene lake views, towering trees, architectural ruins, and the gentle movement of the river. It’s a place where stories unfold naturally, and your engagement session becomes more than a photoshoot—it becomes a shared memory.

Couple sitting on log over river at Sope Creek engagement session
Couple sharing a romantic gaze and moment near a window-like opening in the Sope Creek Trail ruins

Ready to Tell Your Story?

Whether you’re newly engaged or just starting to dream about your wedding, your engagement session should reflect the heart of your relationship. At Viridian Images Photography, we create experiences rooted in meaning, emotion, and artistry—images you’ll treasure for decades.

Let’s plan your one-of-a-kind engagement session in Atlanta or beyond. Reach out today to start dreaming together.

At Viridian Images Photography, we believe that your love story deserves to be told with intentionality, artistry, and emotional depth. Based in Atlanta and traveling wherever your story takes us, we specialized in creating bold, editorial-inspired wedding photography that captures the connection between modern, intentional couples. With a personalized experience from the very first conversation, we treat our couples like family and guide them every step of the way. If you’re drawn to timeless images that feel like you—and want more than just pretty pictures—we’d love to connect.

👉 Ready to start your journey with us? Get in touch here to inquire about availability.

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