Winter Magic in Montana: Photographing a Styled Elopement at Cabins at Blacktail
There's something utterly timeless about Montana in the winter—snow-dusted pine trees, moody skies, and that quiet stillness that wraps around you like a wool blanket. Recently, I had the chance to photograph a styled winter elopement at the Cabins at Blacktail in Lakeside, Montana, and it was pure magic from start to finish.
What made this shoot so special wasn’t just the location (although it’s hard to beat cozy cabins nestled in the woods), but the chance to document it on both digital and film. Each medium brought a different texture, mood, and soul to the day—and together, they told a story that felt equal parts romantic, nostalgic, and real.
The Setting: Cabins at Blacktail
If you’ve never been to Lakeside in the winter, put it on your list. Just a short drive from Flathead Lake, the Cabins at Blacktail feel like a secret hideaway. Surrounded by trees and perched close to the mountains, it was the perfect backdrop for an intimate winter elopement.
The cabins themselves are simple but beautifully designed—wooden textures, big windows, and just enough rustic charm to feel warm without going full lumberjack. We styled the day to match: minimalist florals, soft earth tones, vintage textures, and a couple whose chemistry made the whole scene feel effortlessly romantic.
Shooting Digital + Film
Photographing this elopement on both digital and 35mm film allowed me to capture the day with two very different lenses—literally and figuratively.
- Digital gave me the freedom to shoot fast in shifting light, catch all the little in-between moments, and experiment with composition.
- Film, on the other hand, made me slow down. It forced me to be intentional, to wait for the right light, the right glance, the right breath. And when those scans came back? Pure gold.
There’s a softness to film that digital just can’t replicate. Especially in the snow, where light bounces everywhere—film rendered those tones with a creamy, almost painterly quality. Skin tones looked dreamy, the snow felt tactile, and even the shadows had warmth.
Final Thoughts
This styled elopement was more than just a creative shoot. It was a reminder of why I love doing what I do—documenting real emotion, real connection, in places that feel like they’re tucked away from time. And doing it on film and digital lets me tell that story in full color and texture.
If you’re dreaming of a winter elopement—Montana might just be your place. And if you're into the idea of film + digital coverage, let's talk. I’d love to help you slow down, breathe it all in, and remember it exactly the way it felt.
Vendor list
Florist and Designer: @fieldfiveflowers
Photographer: @j.annalisephotography
Content Creation & Super 8: @keepcandid
Venue: @thecabinsatblacktail
HMU: @sophia.roskos.beauty
Hair: @cabellovidahair
Table & Chairs: @barndooreventrentals
Linens & Tablescape: @empress_tents_events
Models: @elliehover & @itsconnorrrrr
Dress @velvetbride
