Vintage-Inspired Portrait Session at the University of Montana and Iconic Missoula Locations
Introduction
Mallory’s Vintage-Inspired Portrait Session in Missoula was everything a creative shoot should be—unique, fun, and full of personality. We explored some of the coolest spots in town, starting at the University of Montana and ending with urban backdrops that gave us all the vintage vibes Mallory was looking for. Whether you’re planning your own portrait session or just looking for inspiration, this blog has all the details to help you make it your own.
Missoula Portrait Session: Meet Mallory
Mallory is super creative and such a fun person to be around! Her love for vintage fashion, music, and books set the vibe for this session, and she totally leaned into her unique style. Mallory is currently a student at the University of Montana, where we went for some of her shoot, along with some other Missoula staples for backdrops that perfectly matched her retro aesthetic. When we planned her session, Mallory wanted something that felt authentic to who she is—nothing overly polished, just her personality shining through. We made sure to include locations and props that highlighted her creative and laid-back vibe, from her stylish outfits to the iconic Missoula landmarks she loves.
Missoula, Montana Portrait Locations
University of Montana Portraits
We kicked off Mallory’s shoot at the University of Montana, and it was such a vibe. The historic dorm buildings set the stage perfectly with their vintage charm and timeless architecture. The warm brick tones and big windows made the perfect backdrop for Mallory’s retro-inspired outfits, tying everything together in the coolest way.
Then, we headed inside one of her friend’s dorm rooms. The space was packed with personality—books stacked in every corner, walls covered in art, and just an overall cozy, creative energy. Capturing Mallory in that setting gave the session such an authentic college feel, reflecting her love for vintage aesthetics and her life as a University of Montana student.
If you’re thinking about incorporating personal spaces into your session, this was the perfect example of how much it can elevate the photos. It added such a unique and personal touch to Mallory’s shoot while still keeping things true to her style.
Orange Street Food Farm
Our next stop was the Orange Street Food Farm, and it was such a fun addition to Mallory’s session! Inside, we captured her picking up a Diet Coke—a small but super personal touch that brought out her laid-back, vintage style. This spot is so quintessentially Missoula, and it felt like the perfect showcase for Mallory’s love for unique, local vibes.
Outside, we found the iconic orange tables that pop against the brick backdrop. The setup couldn’t have been better for the aesthetic Mallory was going after. Mallory's outfit and the retro energy of the grocery made this part of the shoot feel effortless and cool, like it was straight out of a classic 80’s movie. Including unexpected spots like this is such a great way to add personality to your session.
Missoula, Montana Portrait Session in the Fall
Mallory's session was in the fall, and the cool weather made it ideal for the jackets she brought along. It wasn’t too cold, but the crisp air worked perfectly for layering outfits like her vintage jackets, which fit the vibe of the shoot.
Fall in Missoula is great for portraits—cool enough to wear layers but still comfortable to be outdoors. If you’re thinking about when to book your session, fall is a solid option, especially if you want that cool-weather, vintage look. You can also go for a multi-season shoot to get a variety of vibes, depending on your style.
Missoula Portrait Session Outfit Inspo
Vintage Portrait Session Outfit Inspiration at the University of Montana
Mallory kicked off her session at the University of Montana with a stunning outfit that blended vintage charm with modern edge. She wore a long, white flowy skirt paired with a sleek black tank top and a black leather jacket, her look felt effortless and timeless.
This outfit worked perfectly against the university's old brick buildings and cozy dorm interiors, creating a cool, layered vibe that complemented the fall weather. The leather jacket gave it a touch of personality and edge, while the flowy skirt balanced everything with a softer, more romantic feel.
When choosing outfits for portraits, think about how they’ll interact with the backdrop. Flowy fabrics add movement and a dreamy feel, while structured pieces like jackets bring contrast and style. Black and white is a classic combo that always looks great, no matter the season or setting!
Denim Overall Outfit Inspo for Missoula Portrait Session
Mallory’s second outfit was a total vibe and looked straight out of an 80’s movie. She rocked some classic denim overalls over a gray sweater, and honestly, it couldn’t have been more perfect for her session at the Orange Street Food Farm and in front of the brick backdrops. To top it off, she brought along a brown bomber jacket that gave her whole look this cool vintage edge. Her black ballet flats paired perfectly with the rest of her outfit and she wore some of her favorite rings which really stood out in some of the close up shots.
This outfit was cozy, layered, and so her, which made it work beautifully against the brick textures and for the chill fall day we had in Missoula. If you’re putting together outfits for your own photos, take a note from Mallory: layers, comfy vibes, and jewelry that speaks to your style can make your photos feel like you!
Incorporating Hobbies into your Missoula Session
One of my favorite parts about Mallory’s shoot was how she made it her own with props that felt authentic to her. She brought along a few of her favorite books, which added such a personal and vintage vibe to her photos. Flipping through pages at the University of Montana brought this subtle storytelling element to her session.
We also took a moment to capture her sipping on a Diet Coke—purchased right on the spot during her grocery store shoot. It was such a fun, candid addition! To top it off, Mallory embraced her vibe with a cigarette, which added an edgy, retro flair to her photos that matched her aesthetic perfectly.
Missoula, Montana Portrait Photographer
Heyyy, I’m Morgan Piazzola, a Northwest Montana based photographer that's all about turning your unique moments into visuals that feel like YOU! Let’s capture your true personality, vibe, and bring your ideas to life! Learn more about working with me for your Missoula, Montana Portrait Session HERE.
