That Signature Silhouette Shot 🌅

Silhouette Shot, Spokane Wa, Vanessa mathisen Photography

Why It’s Worth the Wait!

Every photographer has that shot — the one that makes people stop scrolling, take a deep breath, and say, “Wow.” For me? It’s the silhouette shot.

Whether it’s a family holding hands at sunset, a senior striking a bold pose against the fading sky, or a moment of stillness frozen in golden light — there’s just something about a silhouette that turns a simple photo into a showstopper.

Wall Art Worth Showing Off

Picture this: a stunning metal or canvas print of your family silhouetted against the sunset, hanging above your couch or acting as the focal point of your home. It's bold, timeless, and makes a statement — this is us. These shots make fantastic wall art, and they always feel just a little extra magical.

The Secret Sauce? SUN.

Here’s the catch — silhouette shots are a bit of a diva. They depend completely on the sunset and the sky playing nice.

☀️ Perfect conditions: A clear, sunny evening with blue skies and a glowing sunset = jackpot.
☁️ Not-so-perfect: If the clouds roll in and the sky gets sassy and gray? Game over (well, for silhouettes anyway). That’s why flexibility is key — we plan for it, pray for sun, and reschedule if needed. Trust me, it’s 100% worth the wait.

Locations I Love (And a Few Laughs Along the Way)

📍 Bear Lake — A dreamy location where the shot happens from a fence as I lay flat on the ground. Pro tip: I try to avoid horse or dog poop… although I may or may not have sacrificed a clean shirt or two in the name of art. 😅

Vanessa Mathisen Photography, Silhouette Shot, Colbert, WA, Bear Lake,

📍 The Hidden Gem — Believe it or not, there’s a little slice of silhouette heaven tucked between Arby’s and a gas station on Highway 2, just past North 40. I know, I know… it doesn’t sound magical, but trust me, the open field and west-facing view totally delivers.

Vanessa Mathisen Photography, Silhouette Shot, Spokane Wa, hidden gem

📍 The Argonne-Bigalow Loop — This route is quickly becoming a fan favorite! We start with a rustic white fence that makes the perfect prop, then hop in the car and follow me to a hidden field featuring a beautiful tree and either lush green grass or golden straw, depending on the season. And of course — the grand finale — that epic silhouette shot to end the session. Trust me, it’ll rock your world.

Vanessa Mathisen Photography, Silhouette Shot, Spokane Wa, Argonne and bigalow loop

Let’s Make It Happen

Silhouette shots can be included as part of your family or senior session, or we can book a session specifically focused on getting that one epic image. We just need a clear evening, a little flexibility, and a willingness to embrace the adventure.

Let’s create something frame-worthy, scroll-stopping, and full of soul. Ready to book your signature silhouette shot? Let’s plan it out — poop jokes and all. 😉

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