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The Snowball Ambush Engagement Photo Session – Big Sky Montana
Big Sky, Montana | Winter Engagement Session
I’ve photographed a lot of love stories, but I’m not sure any have started quite like this one.
We were walking around Big Sky, bright midday sun bouncing off fresh powder, the kind of light that makes snow look electric blue. They were hand-in-hand, still riding the high of being newly engaged, when she stopped, bent down, packed a snowball with the stealth of someone who had been planning this for miles, and absolutely smoked him on the side of his shoulder.
His face. My camera was already up (because I live for these moments), and the next eight minutes were pure chaos: snow flying, laughter echoing off the mountains, dodging, chasing, tackling, kissing with snowflakes still stuck to their eyelashes. Zero hats, zero golden hour, one hundred percent them.
I just stood there turning into a human icicle, firing off frames like my life depended on it, because honestly? It kind of did. This is why I do what I do.
There’s something about winter engagements in Montana that hits different. The cold makes you brave. It makes you cling to each other a little tighter, laugh a little louder, and apparently, throw snowballs with shocking accuracy.
These two reminded me that the best sessions aren’t perfectly posed or perfectly timed with sunset. The best ones are the ones where someone decides love looks a lot like a snowball ambush… and the other person can’t stop smiling long enough to even pretend to be mad.
So here’s to the ones who play, who tease, who refuse to take love too seriously. Here’s to fresh snow and the people brave enough to start the fight.
(And yes, she still claims victory.)
Lovers, if you’re dreaming of a winter session that feels less like a photoshoot and more like the best day ever, let’s talk. I’ve got frostbitten fingers and a full heart, and I’m ready for you.
Shoot me a message → 2026 + 2027 dates are open and already going fast.
All my love (and snow down my jacket), Alyssa
Alyssa Johnson Photography | Montana Elopement & Wedding Photographer Based in Bozeman | Available worldwide | Currently thawing out
Ski Proposals 2025: Your Dream Mountain Proposals/ Engagements Session
Dreaming of proposing on your favorite ski resort or in untouched backcountry powder? We capture every tear, ring shot, and first kiss in cinematic photos + optional for video — anywhere the snow falls. Limited 2025- 2026 dates now open. 💍❄️
(Bridger Bowl • Big Sky • or Custom to any Resort • Backcountry • Anywhere the Snow Falls)
The lifts are spinning, fresh tracks are waiting, and ski-proposal/engagement season is officially ON.
Whether you’re dreaming of a sunrise proposal at your favorite resort, a private heli-drop in untouched backcountry powder, or a quiet ridge only the two of you will ever ski, we’ll be there (unseen until the perfect moment) to capture every second in photos + cinematic video.
Why a ski proposal is unforgettable
Ever-changing, jaw-dropping mountain backdrops
Your love story literally written in fresh snow
Golden-hour light that makes rings sparkle like crazy
The best celebration ever: first champagne turns on the mountain
2025 Ski Proposal Packages – What You Actually Get
Every package includes professional photography + video.
✓ 70+ fully edited, high-resolution photos ✓60-90 minute cinematic highlight film Optional (ready for Instagram and Grandma) ✓ Ring close-ups + genuine candid moments ✓ Fresh powder and ridge-line locations ✓ Full planning support – timing, weather backups, permits, access ✓ Private online gallery + USB keepsake ✓ Sneak-peek edits within 48 hours
Locations We Love (Yours Included)
Your home resort (any lift-accessed mountain)
Backcountry ski & skin-track adventures
Private yurts, lodges, or on-mountain restaurants
Custom secret spots you’ve always wanted to propose at
You pick the mountain. We make the magic happen.
2025 - 2026 Booking Calendar Is Open (Spots Fill Fast)
December → March is peak season. Powder days, holidays, and bluebird weekends book first.
We only take a limited number of proposals each month so every couple gets our full attention and the very best light.
Ready to turn your best ski day into forever?
→ use the contact form below → Tell us your dream resort or backcountry zone → We’ll reply within 24 hours with availability and exact pricing
Let’s make this the winter she’ll never stop talking about.
See you in the mountains,
Alyssa Johnson
Alyssa Johnson Photography
Ski & Backcountry Proposal Photographer