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A Spontaneous Portrait Session with a Montreux Portrait Photographer
As a Montreux portrait photographer, I often find beautiful locations around the Swiss Riviera while scouting for upcoming photoshoots.
Last Monday evening, I was walking along the lakeside near Château de Chillon, exploring the area for a future session. The light was slowly softening into that beautiful golden glow photographers love so much — the kind of light that makes the mountains, the lake, and the castle look almost magical.
And sometimes, the best photoshoots begin exactly like that: unexpectedly.
The Best Golden Hour Photoshoots Sometimes Happen by Chance
Some photo sessions are carefully planned weeks in advance.
And sometimes… they happen completely by chance.
As I was walking along the path, I noticed three friends trying to take a photo together with their phone. You know the classic situation — everyone squeezing into the frame, trying to balance the phone somewhere, hoping the timer works.
So I offered to help and take the photo for them.
We started chatting for a moment, and I mentioned that I was a portrait photographer based near Montreux and that I was scouting the location for another shoot.
Then I asked them a simple question:
“Would you like a couple of photos together? I’m happy to take a few for my portfolio.”
Their reaction was immediate — big smiles and an enthusiastic yes.
Visiting the Montreux Riviera
The three friends were visiting Switzerland and had spent time in Zermatt earlier during their trip.
That day, they had decided to explore the Montreux Riviera and visit the famous Château de Chillon, one of the most iconic landmarks on Lake Geneva.
And somehow, our paths crossed right at golden hour.
The timing could not have been more perfect.
The lake was calm, the light was soft, and the castle stood quietly behind us — creating the kind of natural backdrop photographers dream about.
Their First Professional Photoshoot
One thing they told me during our short session made me smile.
This was actually the first time they had ever had a professional photoshoot together.
And honestly, you would never have guessed.
Within minutes the nervous laughter turned into genuine laughter — the kind that happens when friends are traveling together, sharing adventures and simply enjoying the moment.
There was no pressure to pose.
No complicated setup.
Just three friends walking along the lakeside, laughing, joking, and enjoying a spontaneous moment together.
Those are often the best kinds of photos.
Golden Hour by Château de Chillon
If you’ve ever visited the Montreux Riviera, you know how special the evening light can be.
The sun slowly drops behind the mountains, reflecting warm tones across Lake Geneva, while the stone walls of Château de Chillon begin to glow softly in the background.
It creates the perfect setting for natural outdoor portraits.
No dramatic poses needed.
Just beautiful light, genuine connection, and a little bit of laughter.
A Little Moment of Magic by the Lake
We only spent about ten minutes taking photos together.
But sometimes that’s all it takes.
A spontaneous moment.
Beautiful light.
Three friends enjoying their time together.
And suddenly those small moments become memories captured forever.
These kinds of encounters are one of the things I love most about being a photographer.
You never quite know what the evening will bring.
Thinking About a Portrait Session in Montreux?
If you’re visiting Montreux, the Swiss Riviera, or the Lake Geneva region, a portrait session is a beautiful way to remember your trip.
Whether you’re traveling with friends, as a couple, or with family, the lakeside and surrounding mountains offer incredible natural backdrops for relaxed outdoor photos.
Some sessions are carefully planned.
And sometimes… they begin with a simple hello by the lake.
Take a look at the photos below to see how relaxed and fun a portrait session can be.
Portfolio from this photo session
Portrait Photographer in Montreux & the Swiss Riviera
If you’re looking for a portrait photographer in Montreux, the Swiss Riviera offers some of the most beautiful natural backdrops in Switzerland.
From the lakeside near Château de Chillon, to the quiet promenades along Lake Geneva, and the nearby alpine landscapes above Montreux, there are countless locations perfect for natural outdoor portraits.
Many of my portrait sessions take place around Montreux, Vevey, and the Lavaux region, where the lake, mountains, and soft evening light create a relaxed and timeless atmosphere for photos.
Whether you’re visiting the area with friends, traveling as a couple, or simply want to capture a special moment during your time on the Swiss Riviera, a portrait session is a beautiful way to remember your experience here.
Hey, I'm Maaike
Switzerland photographer specializing in outdoor portraits, bespoke adventures in nature, and intentional elopements in the Swiss Alps.
I’m a born-and-raised Swiss mountain lover based near Montreux, creating natural portrait experiences around the Swiss Riviera and the Alps.
Nature has always been my reset button.
The place where things feel clearer, calmer, more honest.
That’s exactly what I want your photo experience to feel like.
Whether we’re walking along the lake at sunset, exploring a quiet alpine meadow, or heading up into the mountains for something a little more adventurous — I’m here to guide the entire process with calm expertise and thoughtful planning.
My background in event coordination means I think ahead.
Weather shifts? Backup plans.
Cable car schedules? Already checked.
Nervous about being in front of the camera? Completely normal — and I’ll guide you through it gently.
You don’t have to perform.
You don’t have to know how to pose.
You just get to be present — with your partner, your family, or your friends.
And I’ll take care of turning those moments into something you’ll hold onto for decades.
Planning a portrait session in Montreux or the Swiss Riviera?
I’d love to help you create something beautiful together.
Hey there!
I’m Maaike Jansen
Your outdoor portrait photographer in Montreux, mountain nerd, and calm-in-the-chaos guide.
I create relaxed portrait experiences in nature for couples, families, friends, and wild-hearted travelers visiting the Swiss Riviera and the Alps.
From lakeside sunsets near Château de Chillon to quiet alpine trails, I’ll guide the whole experience so it feels natural, easy, and genuinely fun.
No awkward posing.
No pressure.
Just real moments in beautiful places.
Sustainable & Leave no trace certified
Proudly Practicing Leave No Trace Values – the earth is worth it
Elopement Education certified
Empowering intentional, meaningful elopements — because your love deserves more than a template.
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