A Turkey Run State Park Engagement Session in Indiana.

One of my core childhood memories is when I visited Turkey Run State Park for the very first time with my Uncle. I remember being starstruck with how somewhere so close to home could feel like an entire other world. The type of place that makes you sloooow down, and be present. That's Turkey Run State Park. With winding trails, towering trees, sandstone canyons, and so many little places to disappear into the woods together, it feels like the kind of place that was created just for couples who would rather have their engagement session feel like an actual adventure.

So naturally, when I got to photograph this engagement session at Turkey Run, I knew we were going to have plenty to work with.

And honestly, this is exactly the kind of engagement session I love. One that I had actually been dreaming about doing for months in advance until I found the perfect and most adventerous couple, Christina & Austin who were ready to trust my vision. And the best part? Not a single moment had to look perfectly styled or posed because Turkey Run State Park in itself gives you something to do. We trekked, explored, laughed, got our feet wet from the flowing water, stopped several times to take in the view, and simply spend time together. The photographs were just a natural result that happened along the way.

Exploring Turkey Run for Engagement Photos

One of my favorite things about photographing couples outdoors is that we don't have to spend the entire session standing in one spot. At Turkey Run, we were able to wander through the entire park, explore the trails, and take in the beauty Turkey Run has to offer, while letting it all become part of their story. I should say continued part of their story, because Austin proposed to Christina at Turkey Run too! Turkey Run is over 2,000 acres but choosing the perfect trail for their session was easy. Trail 3, hands down. Now, I will say trail 3 is a bit treacherous with narrow pathways between tall rock walls and it's very likely you'll have to walk through flowing water to make it to some epic stops along the way. That being said, it would be wise to bring a pair of back up shoes to walk the trail in. Christina & Austin looked so well put together in their polished outfits, it's fair to say they were the best dressed in the entire park, and had a lot of stares and "congratulations!" from people passing us by. All in all, this session proves all of this prep was so worth it! An engagement session that feels like you.

Why I Love Turkey Run for Engagement Sessions

Turkey Run has a very unique distinct sense of place. It's not just a pretty forest. The tall rock walls and ravines bring a bit of drama in the stillness of the trees. There were many times where I felt like I was in 'Twilight' and yes, I let Christina and Austin know that they looked like they could be in twilight while photographing them and I got so much laughter out of them for that one.

With all the different aspects of Turkey Run, your gallery will have a lot of variety without feeling like we're trying to manufacture a bunch of different backdrops. One minute you're standing on a fallen tree and the next you're passing between massive rock walls. Then my personal favorite, you're walking down the open trail together with sunlight filtering through the trees. If you want to forget that you're doing a photoshoot at all, Turkey Run is the place to choose!

For the Couples Who Would Rather Explore Than Pose

If your idea of a perfect engagement session sounds more like an adventure than a traditional photoshoot, Turkey Run might be the perfect fit. We can hit some of the traditional poses along the way, (parents and grandparents love those shots), but trekking Turkey run allows you to forget that the camera is even there. We'll walk the trails, explore the natural beauty of the park and the photographs will just naturally happen around those moments. I will be there to guide you and give your direction when needed, but my end goal is to have your photos feel exactly like you with a bit of magic.

What to Expect From a Turkey Run Engagement Session

Turkey Run has trails ranging from easy to very rugged, so your session can be tailored to the kind of adventure you're comfortable with. Indiana DNR notes that some trails include steep terrain, ladders, uneven surfaces, and streambeds, while others are much easier. (in.gov) Before your session, we'll talk about what you're comfortable doing and how adventurous you want to be.

You don't need to be experienced hikers, but you should bring closed toe shoes for walking in. You can simply switch out of your regular shoes into something 'fancier' once we reach a cool spot.

This session typically lasts about 1.5-2 hours to allow us to hit some of the most notable parts of Turkey Run. We can choose a route that works best for you! And, if you're the couple who does want to get a little adventurous, though? I'm very much down to take part in the adventure.

What Should You Wear for Turkey Run Engagement Photos?

For an outdoor session, I always recommend choosing something that makes you feel like yourself while also allowing you to move comfortably.

Think about the environment we're going to be exploring. Flowy cream-colored dresses photograph beautifully against the trees and sandstone, while more casual outfits can make the session feel relaxed and adventurous. Bring comfortable closed toe shoes, you can easily change into something nicer once we get to a spot you love. Turkey Run's trails can be uneven and rugged, so having shoes you can actually walk in will make the entire experience much more enjoyable. You should also bring water for drinking, and I'll bring a bag to hold all of our stuff in.

The Best Part of an Engagement Session Like This

It really can just be a good day spent together in nature. You get to spend a couple hours exploring somewhere beautiful, make some memories before you're married, and end up with photographs that document this special season of your life. Not to mention, these will be photos that actually feel like you!

And What If You Want to Get Married at Turkey Run?

This is where I think Turkey Run gets especially exciting. If you love the idea of your engagement photos looking like this, imagine spending your actual wedding day here. Maybe your wedding is an intimate elopement with just the two of you. Maybe you exchange vows somewhere surrounded by the woods and then spend the afternoon exploring together. Maybe you have a larger celebration nearby and come to Turkey Run for your portraits. Whatever your version looks like, I would feel honored to photograph it. Turkey Run is my favorite state park in Indiana so I offer 10% any wedding or elopement package that is booked with Turkey Run State Park. Turkey Run State Park has event and lodging options through Turkey Run Inn, and Indiana DNR also offers reservable facilities within the park. Because park rules and permit requirements can vary depending on what you're planning, I recommend checking with Indiana DNR and your chosen venue before making your plans. (in.gov)

A Turkey Run Wedding or Elopement Could Look Like This

Imagine waking up surrounded by trees, getting ready in a cabin in the woods, and putting on your wedding attire knowing that instead of rushing from one traditional venue to another, you're about to explore Indiana's most beautiful state park. You get married surrounded by those nearest and dearest to you and then sneak away together for your formal portraits. Maybe it rains, maybe you get a little dirty, but that's okay, because your dress was meant to be worn. Instead of worrying about a strict timeline, everything being 'perfect', you both get to just let the day happen naturally as it should. These are the kinds of days I dream about capturing.

Your Indiana Wedding Photographer for Outdoor Love Stories

I'm Emily, the photographer behind Emily Wiley Photo.

I photograph weddings, elopements, and engagement sessions throughout Indiana and beyond for couples who value art, memory, adventure, and the great outdoors.

My approach is documentary, cinematic, whimsical, romantic, and a little nostalgic. I'm there of course to document the big moments, but I'm also there to notice, observe, and capture everything happening around them. Like the way your partner looks at you when you're not paying attention, the inside joke that makes you both laugh, the wind catching your dress, the muddy shoes, and all of those little pieces that you'll want to remember years from now.

If you're dreaming about a Turkey Run engagement session, wedding, or elopement, I'd love to hear more about your vision.

Let's go somewhere explore Turkey Run State Park together and make some memories.

[INQUIRE WITH EMILY →]

Turkey Run State Park Engagement Session FAQ

Is Turkey Run State Park a good location for engagement photos?

Absolutely. Turkey Run offers a mix of forests, massive rock walls, ravines, trails, and scenic areas, giving couples plenty of variety for an outdoor engagement session. The park's trails range from easy to very rugged. A trail for everyone, not just experienced hikers. (in.gov)

Do we have to hike for our engagement session?

Not necessarily. We'll choose locations and trails based on your comfort level, the amount of walking you're comfortable with, and the kind of photographs you want.

Can we bring our dog?

If you want to include your dog, we'll want to check the park's current pet rules and choose appropriate areas and trails before your session.

What time should we take Turkey Run engagement photos?

There's a lot of beautiful sun rays shining through the trees late morning, but I also love the softer light later in the day, but the best time depends on the season, your schedule, and the locations we're using. We'll choose a time that gives us the best combination of beautiful light and a relaxed experience.

Can we do our wedding or elopement at Turkey Run?

Potentially, depending on your plans. Turkey Run has event facilities and lodging options, but couples should confirm current requirements, permits, and restrictions with Indiana DNR and their chosen venue before planning their event. (in.gov)

Do you photograph weddings at Turkey Run?

Yes! I even offer 10% off any wedding or elopment package for couples getting married at Turkey Run! If you're dreaming about a Turkey Run wedding or elopement, I'd love to talk with you about your plans and help you create a photography experience that feels natural, adventurous, and candidly yours.

https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/parks-lakes/turkey-run-state-park/