so you decided a barn wedding wasn't your vibe..
Exchanging your vows as the sun rises over Half Dome, or wandering through golden meadows surrounded by towering cliffs — you want the kind of day that feels like an adventure but still calm, intentional, and completely about the two of you. As your Yosemite elopement photographer I'll help you craft and capture a day that’s genuine, awe-inspiring, and totally true to who you are.
and you're dreaming about a Yosemite Elopement.
it’s about living out the kind of day you’ll never forget.
Eloping in Yosemite isn’t about checking off a shot list
This isn’t just about saying “no” to the traditional wedding script—it’s about saying “yes” to slowing down, breathing deep, and making space for the real stuff: the nerves, the laughter, the adventure, the quiet moments in between. Yosemite is the kind of place that gives you permission to do that and I’m there every step of the way — not just as your photographer, but as your planner, hype woman, and built-in Yosemite guide.
Feeling Overwhelmed About Where to Start?
Planning a Yosemite elopement can feel like a dream and a headache all at once — permits, weather, locations, logistics… where do you even begin? You know you want to exchange your vows somewhere epic, but figuring out the details can get overwhelming fast.
I’ve helped so many couples navigate every part of the process — from finding the perfect ceremony spot and understanding the park rules, to building a stress-free timeline that lets you actually enjoy the day instead of rushing through it. I don’t just show up with a camera—I’m here to guide you through it all, from location scouting to timeline building, and everything in between. You don’t have to figure this out alone. As your Yosemite elopement photographer, I’m not just taking your pictures—I’m your planner, guide, and adventure buddy.
I'll plan all the hard stuff for you!
that's where I come in!
where i'm featured:
where i'm featured:
As your yosemite elopement photographer I'm here to help you...
Craft a day that feels completely you — intentional, fun, and full of meaning.
Find the most beautiful, tucked-away Yosemite locations for your vows and portraits.
Build a stress-free timeline that lets you stay present and enjoy every moment.
Capture your story in a way that feels effortless, genuine, and alive.
1. Craft a day that feels completely you — intentional, fun, and full of meaning.
2. Find the most beautiful, tucked-away Yosemite locations for your vows and portraits.
3. Build a stress-free timeline that lets you stay present and enjoy every moment.
4. Capture your story in a way that feels effortless, genuine, and alive.
50+
150k+
7+
Couples photographed
in Yosemite
photos captured in yosemite
years experience shooting in Yosemite
90+
5 Star Reviews on Google
Couples photographed
in Yosemite
photos captured in yosemite
years experience shooting in Yosemite
5-Star Reviews on Google
Your elopement isn’t just a photoshoot—it’s a real, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Photos That Feel Like You
My goal? To capture the magic of your day in a way that feels effortless, natural, and true to your story. Let's chat about how I make that happen.
My Philosophy on Photos
What it's like to work with me
Good vibes only - Through the planning process we keep things relaxed and fun, so by elopement day, it's like we're besties!
Candids > Posed: I capture you fully present—whether it's you sharing spontaneous laughter over inside jokes, or tearful vows— I'm there for the organic memories.
Low-Key Direction: I offer gentle guidance when it comes to taking those formal portraits, resulting is stunning images where you look and feel your best.
Timeless Editing: No heavy filters here—just cinematic, true-to-life edits that make your day feel like a rom-com (starring you, obvi).
- SABRINA & BRIAN
"sALISHA WAS ALWAYS THERE TO ANSWER ALL OUR QUESTIONS"
- Sabrina & Brian
"sALISHA WAS ALWAYS THERE TO ANSWER ALL OUR QUESTIONS"
What’s Included in Our Yosemite Elopement Packages
Once you’re officially booked, the planning magic begins. I’ll send you a super helpful elopement guide (like, 50+ pages worth of gold), scout epic Yosemite spots for your ceremony, and help build a stress-free timeline that fits your vision perfectly.
Need vendor recs, travel tips, or help figuring out what permits you need? Gotchu. I even create a personalized packing list so you don’t forget anything important (like snacks... always snacks).
On your elopement day, I’ll handle the logistics and gently guide the flow so you can stay present and soak in every moment. And yes, you’ll get sneak peeks the next day — because reliving the magic should never have to wait.
What It’s Like to Work Together, Start to Finish
What’s Included in Your Yosemite Elopement Package
Once you’re officially booked, the planning magic begins. I’ll send you a super helpful elopement guide (like, 50+ pages worth of gold), scout epic Yosemite spots for your ceremony, and help build a stress-free timeline that fits your vision perfectly.
Need vendor recs, travel tips, or help figuring out what permits you need? Gotchu. I even create a personalized packing list so you don’t forget anything important (like snacks... always snacks).
On your elopement day, I’ll handle the logistics and gently guide the flow so you can stay present and soak in every moment. And yes, you’ll get sneak peeks the next day — because reliving the magic should never have to wait.
What It’s Like to Work Together, Start to Finish
- alexandra & brad
“We were so comfortable being in front of her camera.”
Dreamy Yosemite Elopement photography in Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, & Taft Point
glacier & taft point elopement
HOW TO PLAN A YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT
Everything You Need to Know to Start Planning Your Dream Yosemite Elopement
Waterfall Yosemite Elopement Photography with dog witness and Taft Point sunset
YOSEMITE secret waterfall elopement
Recent Yosemite Elopements
Every year, more couples are choosing Yosemite National Park for their elopement — and it’s no surprise why. But with that rise in popularity comes high demand. According to SF Gate Yosemite park officials have reported a “crushing demand and huge number of applications for Yosemite wedding permits,” which can mean longer wait times. Because of this, I always recommend staying flexible with your date, applying early, and choosing a weekday if possible for the best experience.
1. apply for your permit in advance
1. apply for your permit in advance
Final Takeaway for Planning Your Yosemite Elopement
If you’re planning to stay close to Yosemite (within about an hour’s drive), definitely book early — those spots fill up fast. Most people don’t realize that many hotels and Airbnbs are actually an hour or more outside the park, so the few places inside or nearby can book up almost a year in advance. If you're working with me, I'll help you choose the best lodging based off of our permits and the locations that we will choose for your Yosemite elopement photography. For more info on lodging read more about staying in Sonora, or our favorite Yosemite lodging.
If you’ve never visited Yosemite I bet you imagine coming to the mountains to escape people, but Yosemite actually draws a substantial amount of visitors, and each year it seems to increase! For this reason we recommend dodging the crowds by planning your ceremony at sunrise, if privacy and intimacy is something that’s important to you. Sunrises can offer a bit more privacy than later in the day, in addition to spectacular views, and then you have the remainder of the day to explore and celebrate together, or take a nap before watching the sunset.
2. Book your stay ahead of time
2. Book your stay ahead of time
Most people imagine the mountains as a cool escape from the summer heat, but as a Yosemite local, I can tell you — summers here get hot. It’s also one of the busiest times of year, which means extra park reservations, big crowds, and tricky parking. I usually recommend planning your Yosemite elopement in late spring (April–June) or early to mid-fall (October) for the best mix of mild weather and fewer crowds. Winter can be beautiful too, but keep in mind that storms sometimes close the park for days at a time — we actually had a full park closure during a blizzard in March 2024!
3. ELOPE IN late SPRING OR FALL
3. ELOPE IN SPRING OR FALL
4. plan a sunrise ceremony
5. hire Someone Experienced
Do you need a permit to take wedding photos in Yosemite?
HOW DO I CHOOSE AN ELOPEMENT LOCATION?
What is a Yosemite Wedding Permit For?
ARE YOUR PACKAGES CUSTOMIZABLE?
WHAT DOES AN ELOPEMENT TIMELINE LOOK LIKE?
How many hours will I need my photographer?
How expensive is it to get married in Yosemite?
Can I include family at my elopement?
how do I elope/get married in yosemite?
Of course! You can definitely include members of your family in your elopement plans, as long as they are up for the adventure! I recommend inviting only the people you know will help keep the day’s focus on YOU! Some couples prefer to include a very small group (or no one) at the elopement ceremony and then they plan a reception or party to follow on the date or at a later date. There are no rules when it comes to elopement weddings, and that’s part of the freedom!
ANSWEr
A Yosemite Elopement will likely cost you much less than a traditional wedding, in fact, the wedding permit is only $150! Your budget will likely solely consist of these few things: a photographer/planner, travel costs/lodging, wedding attire, bouquet, and your permit/marriage license and of course food! Most Yosemite elopements cost between $7k-$15k, which is about what you'd spend on a typical wedding venue.
ANSWEr
Most couples really value having all the memories from their elopement day together, from getting ready, until sunset, which is why most of my elopement packages include all-day photography coverage. A few couples may just want some photos from their ceremony, as well as bridal photos inside the park, which can take some time when you're traveling through Yosemite's vast regions. For less photography coverage opt for 6-hours or a "half-day" package.
ANSWEr
Your day can be exactly what you want to make of it, but in most cases we will need to plan out travel time to the locations (including drive time, parking, and hiking to the spot) time for getting ready, the vows, and the post-ceremony celebration, as well as any special activities you want to plan to share together on your big day.
ANSWEr
Yes! My goal is always to serve you as best as I can, so I want to make sure that you’re getting everything your heart desires when it comes to your wedding day photography. If there’s something you desire that isn’t included in your package (extra hours, albums, 2nd shooters, whatever!) then we can absolutely add it on. In our initial consultation, we can discuss each package and decide which option (or in-between option) will best suit your needs!
ANSWEr
Yosemite's wedding permit or "special use" permit is basically a document signed by the park office that says you’re allowed to do your ceremony there. Permits are pretty simple to obtain and they help assure that no one else is getting married at that time/place while also protecting the land and wildlife. They are currently about $150, so super affordable!
ANSWEr
Not if you're only coming to take photographs, and not actually "getting married". This is what we call a bridal photography session, and in Yosemite bridal photography is allowed to be captured without a special use permit (for now!). If you're interested in coming to the park to take bridal photos then I have specific packages just for you! Just fill out an inquiry form on the contact page and indicate that you're interested in an Adventure Bridal session! :)
ANSWEr
This is the fun part! Are you envisioning sand in your toes, a gorgeous mountain range, a high-sierra meadow at sunrise, or a cliffside ceremony? If you can dream it, we can make it happen! We'll have to keep in mind travel time, getting ready, and locations that are only for avid hikers. I also have a free quiz I can send to help you narrow the location for you. Just know, I’m always down for an adventure, so don’t be afraid to dream BIG!
ANSWEr
Yosemite Elopement FAQs
FAQs
