Black Balsam Knob is my favorite mountain photo spot on the Blue Ridge Parkway.


And as Maddie and Jacob planned their engagement session, we knew we were looking for some fall color and some epic mountain views! Luckily, Black Balsam Knob delivered both, with a side of some gorgeous, dramatic fog.


Jacob remarked, "I feel like I just walked into Lord of the Rings!" and as a true Middle Earth nerd (I once gave a paper at a Tolkien conference back in my English major days!), I think he was right on. That sense of adventure is definitely present at Black Balsam, and the dramatic weather underscored the epic scenery.


Further down the parkway, the trees were showing off their vibrant oranges and yellows, but here at over 6000 feet above sea level, the colors were deepening into richer tones of an oil painting as autumn yielded to winter.


And likewise, as the session progressed, the sun gave way to dramatic, moody clouds and mist began to enshroud the mountain.


We had to work quickly before the storm arrived in full -- no one wants to be on top of a bald mountain when thunderclouds roll in -- but fortunately, with the beauty of the scenery and a sweet couple, we were able to create something beautiful before the washout.


Maddie and Jacob - thank you so much for being up for the adventure!

 

Two people sitting together on a rocky mountain overlook enjoying scenic mountain views in the distance.
Couple sits together on large rock overlooking golden hillside at sunset with mountains in background.
Couple embraces in a golden field of tall grass during autumn sunset creating a romantic silhouette.
A close-up of hands embracing with an engagement ring visible against an olive green sweater in an outdoor setting.
Couple embraces in romantic outdoor setting with mountains and cloudy sky in the background.
A couple shares a romantic moment on a hilltop overlooking misty mountains during sunset.
Dramatic cloudy mountain landscape with fog rolling over autumn hills in muted tones.
Couple walking through a misty autumn field with mountains in the background.
A couple embraces while standing on a mountainside during autumn with red wildflowers in the background.
Hikers walk along a scenic mountain ridge trail during autumn with red berries in the foreground.
Bright red winter berries growing on branches with a soft blurred background.
Two people standing together in a foggy mountain meadow during fall season.
A couple sits together on a mountain overlook with dramatic cloudy skies and autumn landscape below.
An intimate embrace showing a green sweater and beige turtleneck against a light background.
A couple embraces on a misty mountainside with autumn foliage and cloudy skies in the background.
Two people holding hands while wearing casual clothing, showing an engagement ring outdoors.
A couple walks through a misty mountain landscape with autumn foliage and fog rolling across the terrain.
A silhouetted couple embraces against a dramatic sunset sky with trees in the background.

 

If you're planning a photo shoot at Black Balsam Knob,


I would LOVE to talk with you! I've shot many engagement and couples' sessions here, and have learned all the ins and outs of this one of a kind location. (And I am dying to photograph an elopement here!) Please reach out using this contact form and let's chat about scheduling a session!

 

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