Wild Hearts in the Desert: A Styled Arizona Engagement Shoot
Nestled among the rich red sands of Arizona’s sweeping desertscape, this styled shoot was more than just a creative exercise—it captured the real love of a real couple. During a transformative photo retreat hosted by the talented Tess Gearheart and Jessie Lyn Photography, I had the honor of photographing this intimate and earthy engagement session.
A Collaboration Rooted in Connection
This shoot was part of a larger, intentional retreat experience designed by Tess Gearheart (TG Photo + Film) and Jessie Lyn Photography (Jessie Lyn Photography). These two artists curated a soulful and immersive atmosphere for fellow photographers to refine their storytelling craft. One of the most unique aspects of this shoot? The couple at the heart of it weren’t just models—Janie and Trevor were genuinely engaged, and these photos now live as part of their true love story.
Styling That Tells a Story
Janie and Trevor fully embraced the mood of the desert romance. With wide-brimmed cowboy hats, dusty boots, and layered textures, they brought Western elegance to life in a way that felt effortless. Janie wore a flowing, printed gown that moved with the wind and mirrored the tones of the desert floor, while Trevor’s classic bolo tie and Carhartt jacket added grounded charm to the look.
Every detail was personal and natural. Whether Janie was curled into Trevor’s lap or the two stood silhouetted against a sweeping sky, their connection came through in every frame. Their comfort with each other made the shoot feel less like a session and more like a glimpse into an ongoing love story.
The Power of Place
Shooting in Arizona’s open desert created a sense of vastness and intimacy all at once. The wide, empty landscape gave us room to breathe—and to focus entirely on the couple’s connection. From golden hour warmth to dramatic sunset shadows, the desert gave us light and texture that amplified the emotional weight of each frame.
Why Styled Shoots Matter (Especially Like This One)
Styled shoots like this one offer so much more than just portfolio content. When done with intention and real couples, they become training grounds for storytelling. I walked away with not only beautiful images but a deeper understanding of how to guide couples with ease, even in unfamiliar terrain. This retreat wasn’t just about snapping pretty pictures—it was about learning to document love with truth and artistry.
📸 All images by Kari Tello from a styled shoot in collaboration with Tess Gearheart and Jessie Lyn Photography.
Follow the Artists Behind the Lens
Want to see more from this shoot or explore the work of the amazing photographers involved? Check out everyone on Instagram:
📸 Photography by Kari Tello — @karitellophoto
🎞️ Hosted by Tess Gearheart — @tgphotofilm
✨ Co-hosted by Jessie Lyn — @jessielynphotography
Interested in booking your own Western-inspired engagement session? I’d love to hear your story and co-create something just as meaningful. Let’s bring your vision to life—cowboy hats optional.
