Falling Rock, South Dakota Engagement Session | Devin + Avery

As a Rapid City wedding photographer, I love when engagement sessions are rooted in meaning. This Falling Rock, South Dakota engagement session was especially special because this location wasn’t just beautiful, it was personal. For Devin and Avery, Falling Rock is where their engagement began, making it the perfect place to celebrate this season of their story.

We planned their session for a warm summer evening just before sunset, when the light wraps gently around the canyon and the Black Hills feel quiet and calm. The result was a session that felt fun, cozy, and naturally romantic, exactly what these two bring out in each other.

Meet Devin and Avery

Devin and Avery met in college through a mutual friend, and from the moment you’re around them, you can tell their connection is easy and genuine. Avery is bubbly in the best way, full of energy and laughter, while Devin is a little more reserved but incredibly warm and friendly. Together, they balance each other so naturally.

Their proposal happened right before Christmas, when Devin brought Avery out to Falling Rock and asked her to marry him overlooking the canyon. Because of that, there was no question where their engagement session needed to take place. Being able to photograph them here, almost exactly a year before their wedding day, felt like such a full-circle moment.

Why Falling Rock South Dakota Is So Special

Falling Rock in South Dakota is one of those Black Hills locations that feels dramatic without being difficult to access. It’s close to Rapid City, incredibly scenic, and perfect for couples who want a natural backdrop without a long hike.

The first area we photographed is less than a quarter mile round trip and very easy to reach, which makes it ideal for engagement sessions. From there, we walked just a few minutes to Graffiti Rock, which offers a different perspective of the canyon and feels a bit more tucked away.

While you may occasionally see high school students hanging out, it’s usually quiet and secluded, especially during golden hour. One important thing to know is that the best views here face south, which is why sunset is the ideal time to schedule your session. Shooting at golden hour allows for soft, flattering light on your faces and avoids harsh shadows.

Planning a Golden Hour Engagement Session at Falling Rock

Timing matters so much at Falling Rock South Dakota. Golden hour is truly the best time of day for photos here, especially in the summer. The warm light brings out the texture in the rocks and adds depth to the canyon views without overwhelming the scene.

This location works beautifully for couples who want:

• A short, easy walk instead of a long hike
• Big views without intense elevation changes
• A mix of romantic scenery and playful, relaxed moments

It’s one of my favorite engagement session locations near Rapid City for a reason.

Outfits That Compliment the Black Hills Landscape

While I didn’t personally style Devin and Avery, I always send my couples my Couples Handbook, which includes color guidance and outfit tips. Avery chose a stunning champagne-colored dress paired with Devin’s khakis and light blue button-up, which blended perfectly with the natural tones of Falling Rock.

Later in the session, Avery changed into a white t-shirt and jeans, and Devin followed suit for a more casual look. This outfit change added variety to their gallery and helped the session feel relaxed and true to them.

Creating a Comfortable Engagement Session Experience

One of my biggest goals during every engagement session is helping couples feel completely at ease. I always remind my couples that they can’t mess anything up. If something looks awkward, I’ll adjust it. If something feels forced, we move on.

For Devin and Avery, that meant focusing on movement, laughter, and natural interaction rather than stiff posing. I guided them to some of my favorite spots, including the area where we take photos across the canyon, and let them settle into the experience without pressure.

Engagement sessions aren’t about performing for the camera. They’re about connection, comfort, and capturing what this season actually feels like.

A Meaningful Session One Year Before Their Wedding

This session took place exactly one year and one day before Devin and Avery’s wedding day, which made it even more meaningful. Photographing them at the same place where they got engaged felt like such a beautiful way to honor their story and mark the countdown to their marriage.

Falling Rock gave us the perfect backdrop to document that excitement, anticipation, and joy.

Planning Your Own Falling Rock, South Dakota Engagement Session

If you’re dreaming of engagement photos at Falling Rock, I’d love to help you plan a session that feels natural, relaxed, and completely you. Whether you already have a meaningful location in mind or want guidance choosing the perfect spot in the Black Hills, I’m here to make the process easy and stress-free.

You can schedule an engagement session directly, or explore my wedding collections, all of which include a complimentary engagement session in the Black Hills area. It’s one of my favorite ways to help couples feel comfortable before their wedding day and create images that feel honest and timeless.