Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows Elopement
Yosemite National Park is one of the most awe inspiring places I’ve ever been to and getting to experience it more than once in my life - and share it with so many others - is something I’ll never take for granted. This elopement shoot with Sasha and Gabe was one of my favorite days of exploring because we got to take in so much of the park in one day.
We started in the Valley and took photos by the meadows with Half Dome and El Capitan towering above in the distance and then we made our way up to Tioga Pass road. I’ve never been to this area of the park (to be fair, Yosemite is HUGE so I’m not sure if I’ll ever be able to explore it all) so it was especially fun to see these spots for the first time AND photograph such a beautiful couple there.
Another reason I’m excited to have been able to scout and photograph at these locations is because they make awesome spots for elopements and engagement photos! If you didn’t know already, the road to Glacier Point and Taft Point will be closed in 2022 (more info about that here) so couples will need other location options if they’re interested in eloping in Yosemite that year. Of course, there is no shortage of amazing places in the park and no matter where you go, it is guaranteed to be beautiful, but having a place to start your search helps a lot! As an elopement photographer, I consider it part of my job to be familiar with the places I photograph so if you’re interested in getting married in Yosemite I can guide you in the process of finding your perfect ceremony spot and help with any other elopement planning needs!
Makeup: Makeup by Tida
Florals: Reed and Rye
Yosemite Valley
Yosemite Valley is probably one of the most trafficked parts of Yosemite National Park since it’s open year round and easily accessible, but it doesn’t make it any less amazing. Even in the heat of August and direct sun, Sasha and Gabe looked STUNNING in front of this epic Half Dome backdrop!
Tuolumne Meadows
After photos in the valley, we all made our way up Tioga Pass road to Tuolumne Meadows where we found this beautiful little area that we had all to ourselves. The sun began to dip behind the mountains in the background and the sky was a little hazy from wildfire smoke which resulted in the dreamy golden photos you see below. So thankful the fires were far enough way on this weekend to still be able to safely enjoy the park!!
Tenaya Lake
Our stop at Tenaya Lake was brief and the sun completely dipped behind the mountains quickly but I know that this spot would be so perfect for a lakeside elopement or a fun water session in the summer! It’s definitely on my list to come back and enjoy for more than a few minutes!
Olmsted Point
Olmsted Point was our last stop of the day and it was an amazing place to end! The sun had already disappeared, but we took photos under the pink and purple sky until there was almost no light left at all. This location has a similar vibe to Glacier or Taft Point, so if you love the idea of taking photos at those locations, this is a great alternative during the time they will be closed in 2021.
Overall, this was an amazing day and I left feeling so inspired and more in love with Yosemite than I already was! If you’re interested in eloping here, I’d love to help you plan your perfect day and document the whole experience!
You can find more info on eloping in Yosemite, pricing, and what it’s like to work me on my Yosemite Elopement Photographer home page.
