Perfect Summer Engagement Session At Kohler Andrea State Park


When Lauren and Peter reached out to schedule their engagement session, they told me they wanted something natural, serene, and uniquely Wisconsin. Immediately, Kohler Andrae State Park came to mind. Nestled just north of Milwaukee, this gem of a location offers stunning beaches, rolling dunes, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. It’s the kind of spot that feels like a destination getaway—perfect for a Milwaukee engagement session that feels both romantic and adventurous.


On the day of their session, Wisconsin really showed off. It was one of those perfect summer days where the sun was shining, there was just the right amount of a breeze coming off the lake, and the golden hour sun promised to be nothing short of magical. When I met Lauren and Peter in the parking lot, their energy was contagious. They were both excited, a little nervous (which is totally normal!), and ready to create something special together.

Black and white romantic photograph of a couple relaxing together on sandy dunes at sunset.
Black and white close-up of hands resting together on gray fabric, showing intimate connection and comfort.
Someone stands with a dog on a sandy beach with waves and city buildings visible in the distant background.
Two people in white outfits sit together on sandy beach dunes during a warm summer evening.
A couple stands close together on a beach at dusk in black and white silhouette.

We started on the dunes, where the tall grass swayed gently in the breeze. Lauren’s flowy dress complemented the landscape perfectly, and Peter’s easygoing demeanor made every moment feel relaxed and genuine. They had this natural chemistry that made my job SO easy—lots of laughter, stolen glances, and sweet moments where you could just feel the love between them. We talked about how they met, their favorite spots in Milwaukee, and their excitement for their upcoming wedding. I always love hearing these stories because it makes capturing their connection even more meaningful.


As the session went on, we moved closer to the beach. The light was soft and golden, creating that dreamy glow that every photographer hopes for. Lauren and Peter kicked off their shoes and walked along the shoreline, the waves gently lapping at their feet. There’s something about the combination of water, sand, and sunlight that brings out a sense of freedom and joy.


But the real highlight?


Ending the session with a dash into Lake Michigan at sunset. When they said it, there was only a second of hesitation before enthusiastically running into the lake. Lauren’s laughter filled the air as she held up her dress and ran toward the water, Peter right next to her. The two of them splashing in the lake, was a moment of pure joy and spontaneity. It was the perfect way to wrap up their session—a reflection of their adventurous spirits and their willingness to embrace the moment.

Two people running into ocean waves at sunset wearing white summery outfits and splashing in the water.
Two people run and splash together in the ocean waves at sunset, holding hands with a dreamy beachside atmosphere.
Surfer catches a wave during golden hour at the beach with the sun illuminating the ocean spray.
A couple in white outfits holds hands while wading through ocean waves during golden hour at the beach.
A couple embraces while standing in the ocean waves at sunset, captured in black and white photography.
A romantic couple shares a tender kiss while standing in the ocean waves at sunset, wearing white and beige clothing.
A romantic black and white photograph of a couple relaxing together on sand dunes at dusk.
A couple stands together on a serene beach shoreline under wispy clouds and blue sky.
A romantic couple sits together on sandy dunes during a dreamy sunset photoshoot at the beach.
A couple in light summer attire stands together on a sandy beach looking out at the ocean under wispy clouds.
Couple walking hand in hand on a sandy beach at sunset with ocean waves and blue sky in the background.
A distant couple walks along a scenic beach shoreline with city buildings visible on the horizon.
A couple in white clothing walking together along a sandy beach at sunset with waves washing up on shore.
A delicate diamond engagement ring sits perched on weathered driftwood with natural lighting highlighting its sparkle.
A relaxed couple in white outfits sits together on a sandy beach at sunset with dune grass in the background.

Kohler Andrae State Park truly delivered as the backdrop for this session.


Its natural beauty, combined with Lauren and Peter’s vibrant personalities, created images that feel timeless yet deeply personal. For anyone considering an engagement session here, spring and early summer are ideal. The colors are vibrant, the weather is comfortable, and the park’s unique blend of dunes and shoreline offers endless possibilities for stunning photos.


Plus, ending the day with a dip in Lake Michigan? Highly recommended!


If you’re looking for a Kohler Andrae wedding photographer or planning your own Milwaukee engagement session, I’d love to be part of your story. Whether it’s capturing a playful run through the dunes or a quiet moment on the beach, I’m here to make sure your photos reflect who you are as a couple.


Let’s create something beautiful together!