Capturing Love and Adventure at Grand Teton National Park: A Morning at Schwabacher’s Landing

As a photographer, there are few places that make my heart beat faster than Grand Teton National Park all a glow in the sunrise or sunset light, especially at Schwabacher’s Landing. Nestled in the heart of Wyoming, the Teton Range rises sharply from the valley floor. It’s a sight that can’t be beat. Every time I return, I’m reminded of how much I love the mountains, the quiet stillness, and the way the morning light transforms everything it touches.

Recently, I had the privilege of photographing a wonderful couple from Europe, Chloe and Thomas, who were traveling around the United States, visiting National Parks to capture memories of their adventure. They had arrived in the Tetons for one of the most iconic photo opportunities in the park: a sunrise session at Schwabacher’s Landing while also celebrating their new engagement.

If you’ve ever been to Schwabacher’s Landing, you know it’s one of those magical spots where nature and photography collide in the most breathtaking way. But that morning was particularly special.

The Morning Light at Schwabacher’s Landing

As we arrived at Schwabacher’s Landing, the mountains were wrapped in a soft blanket of mist. I was worried we wouldn’t be able to see the mountains, but they peeked out for 10 minutes and that is what we needed! The light was soft and hazy, and the only sounds we could hear were the occasional rustle of the wind through the sagebrush and the calls of distant birds.

In those fleeting moments, the mountains seemed to come alive, and it was beautiful! I loved the mist. I feel like we got so lucky to capture something beautiful and though the mist covered the mountains for the rest of the morning. It did allow us to shoot at Mormon Row, which is difficult to photograph in the morning and is more of an evening location.

Western Vibes at Mormon Row

After the mist settled and the early morning light began to soften, we made our way to another iconic location in the park — Mormon Row. This area, with its rustic barns and expansive views of the Tetons, offers the perfect setting for a more western-style photoshoot.

At the heart of Mormon Row is the historic TA Moulton Barn, one of the most photographed barns in the United States. It’s a reminder of the homesteading days, standing proudly against the backdrop of the towering Teton Range. We spent some time there, capturing the couple in front of the barn, adding a bit of Jackson Hole charm to their adventure photos.

The rugged, expansive landscapes of Mormon Row offered a perfect contrast to the serene beauty of Schwabacher’s Landing. The couple’s connection to each other was undeniable, and every frame told the story of their journey — not just across the United States, but through life together.

The Perfect Photos to Capture a Grand Teton Travel Memory

The early morning light at Schwabacher’s Landing made for some of the most breathtaking photos I’ve ever taken. And as a photographer, there’s nothing more rewarding than knowing that these moments will be a part of someone’s memories for a lifetime. Whether it’s a quiet morning at the river, a couple sharing a laugh in front of a barn, or a peaceful moment in the shadow of the mountains, these are the types of images that make a trip to Grand Teton National Park unforgettable.