Some couples bring next-level energy to a shoot—and Allie + Matt? Absolute cinematic magic. Their engagement session at Ray Roberts Lake was cozy, emotional, windswept, and wildly romantic in all the best ways. Moody skies, lakefront love, and golden hour kisses? Check, check, and yes please.

But what made this session even more special? Ray Roberts Lake is actually where Matt proposed. So, not only did we shoot in a location full of natural beauty—we got to capture these two in the exact spot their forever began.

From High School Sweethearts to Forever: Meet Allie + Matt

These two have a love story that spans over a decade. Allie and Matt go way back, all the way to middle school in a small town outside of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. They had always known of each other thanks to their older sisters being best friends, but it wasn’t until sophomore year of high school that sparks officially flew.

"We started dating when we were 16," says Allie. "I definitely had the biggest crush on him."

They dated through their teen years, parted ways during college, and reconnected six years later. By that time, Matt had moved to Texas, so the couple dated long-distance for a year before Allie made the big move—right at the start of COVID.

As for first impressions?

Allie: "Matt was so cute—I had a big crush."

Matt: "Allie was shy. And really cute."

The Proposal: Rain, Dogs, and a Pier

Their love is rooted in patience, loyalty, and shared adventures—including hiking Ray Roberts Lake with their two dogs. So when Matt planned a casual birthday hike in the freezing rain, Allie had no idea he was about to pop the question at the end of their favorite pier.

"He asked me to walk to the end of the pier... and got down on one knee. The rest is history."

Why Ray Roberts Lake Was The Perfect Location

Besides the deeply personal meaning behind it, Ray Roberts Lake State Park is a dream for couples wanting romantic, woodsy, cinematic engagement photos without leaving the Dallas-Denton area.

Why We Love It:

• Located just 30 minutes north of Denton
• Gorgeous mix of pine trees, rocky lakefront, and open skies
• Sunset light that’s soft, glowy, and camera-ready
• Pet-friendly for your four-legged companions
• Perfect for adventurous couples who love the outdoors

Pro tip: It's a great spot for both engagement and proposal photos, especially if you want your love story to come full circle like Allie + Matt’s.

Tips for Your Own Moody, Romantic Engagement Session

If you're dreaming of a session that feels intimate and raw with just a little edge—this vibe is for you. Here’s how to make the most of a Ray Roberts Lake engagement:

Outfit Tips

• Stick to earthy tones like rust, olive, black, or cream
• Layer up—jackets and cardigans bring movement and texture
• Go for comfort that still looks elevated (linen, cotton, suede)
• Bring two outfits if you want variety (casual and dressy combo)

Timing Tips

• Plan for golden hour—the light here glows like a filter
• Overcast days are not a dealbreaker; they enhance the mood
• Avoid weekends if you want fewer people in the background

Bonus Tips

• Bring a Bluetooth speaker and cue up your favorite playlist
• Pack a blanket to snuggle in for cozy shots
• Don’t forget bug spray and a backup hair tie

The Perfect Balance: How Allie and Matt Bring Out the Best in Each Other

From the moment you meet Allie and Matt, it’s easy to see how perfectly they complement each other. Allie is thoughtful, gentle, and grounded—she has a heart that seems to hold space for everyone she meets, whether two-legged or four. Matt, on the other hand, is the kind of person who fills a room with energy. He’s goofy, outgoing, and never passes up the chance to crack a joke or cook a killer meal.

Their relationship works like a well-balanced dance—Allie brings the calm, and Matt brings the spark. He’s always looking out for her, making sure she’s taken care of, and doing the little things around the house that make life smoother (and tastier—he’s the cook in the relationship!). Meanwhile, Allie’s deep compassion inspires Matt daily. Her natural instinct to care for others is exactly why he makes it his mission to put her first.

And while their personalities might seem like opposites on paper, together they create something beautifully in sync. It’s the kind of love where you laugh a lot, feel safe always, and know that even your quietest moments matter.

Engagement Session Essentials: What to Pack

Neutral-toned outfit (and a backup look)

Blanket for sitting or snuggling

• Comfy shoes for walking trails
• A speaker with your favorite playlist
• Champagne or beer for a celebratory pop
• Your pets, if they’re part of your story
• A good attitude and sense of adventure

A Look Into the Session: All the Feels

Allie wore the most stunning rust-hued dress that flowed perfectly in the breeze, while Matt kept it low-key with dark denim and layers. From winding forest trails to lakeside rock formations, every step of their session felt deeply intentional—like a visual love letter to where it all began.

And yes, we went back to the exact pier where Matt proposed.

"We’ll never forget that moment. Having photos there makes it feel even more special."

What’s Next for Allie + Matt

They’re saying "I do" in a place just as meaningful as Ray Roberts—Destin, Florida, where Allie’s family vacations every year. With their favorite people by their side and a beachy breeze in the air, it’s going to be nothing short of unforgettable.

"We’re excited to celebrate with all our favorite people... and dance the night away."

Let’s Make Some Magic Together

If you’re dreaming of an engagement session that’s more than just pretty photos—one that captures your story, your energy, and your real love—you’re in the right place.

I’m April Pinto a wedding and engagement photographer based in Denton, TX. At April Pinto Photography, I believe your session should feel like a date night with a side of magic. We specialize in laid-back, cinematic, wildly romantic sessions in the places you love most—like Ray Roberts Lake.

Ready to plan your session? Let's Chat!

View the full Engagement Portfolio: Engagement Gallery