When A and R reached out to me about a photoshoot in Yosemite, I couldn’t have been more excited. They’re some of my best friends, and they wanted to capture both couple’s photos and family photos with their newborn baby girl, B. Early July in Yosemite is a fantastic time for a session. The weather was perfect—cool and comfortable, ideal for walking around and enjoying the park’s natural beauty.
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Meeting at Cook’s Meadow
We met at Cook’s Meadow just before sunset. If you’ve never been there, it’s a beautiful spot with lots of open space and great views of the surrounding cliffs. We started our walk along the boardwalk, with El Capitan towering behind us. The meadow was lush and green, a great setting for photos.
Walking Through Sentinel Meadow
As we made our way through Sentinel Meadow, A and R walked hand in hand. R held baby B in his other arm, and it was such a sweet sight. The meadow offered stunning views of Yosemite Falls in the distance. A and R paused for a few kisses and embraces along the way, capturing some intimate moments.
We stopped by the riverbank, with Ribbon Falls in front of us. This spot was perfect for a quiet moment, just watching the river and soaking in the peaceful surroundings. It’s moments like these that make photoshoots in Yosemite so special.
Capturing Family Moments
Our next stop was the Sentinel Beach Picnic Area. This area offers some of the best views in Yosemite National Park, with larger landscapes that are perfect for family photos. Baby B made her appearance here, and we documented some of their first family photos together. Seeing A and R with their new baby was such a heartwarming experience.
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Why Choose Yosemite for Your Photoshoot?
Yosemite National Park is an incredible place for a photoshoot. The variety of landscapes means you can capture a range of different scenes, from meadows and rivers to waterfalls and cliffs. If you’re an outdoorsy couple looking to get engaged or elope in nature, Yosemite offers countless opportunities for beautiful photos.
Tips for Your Yosemite Couples Session
- Timing is Key: Early morning or just before sunset are the best times for photos. The light is softer, and there are fewer people around.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear clothes that are comfortable for walking and that you don’t mind getting a bit dusty or dirty.
- Bring Snacks and Water: You’ll be walking a lot, so stay hydrated and keep your energy up.
- Plan Your Spots: Yosemite is huge, so it’s a good idea to have a plan for where you want to take photos. I can help you with this if you need inspiration and ideas.
- Be Flexible: Sometimes the best moments are unplanned. Be open to stopping and capturing spontaneous moments.
Plan Your Session
If A and R’s experience has inspired you, consider planning your own Yosemite couples session. Whether you’re celebrating an engagement, an anniversary, or just want to capture some beautiful moments together, Yosemite is an excellent choice. I’d love to help you plan and capture your adventure.
Book Your Yosemite Adventure
Ready to book your Yosemite couples session? I’m here to help you create lasting memories in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Contact me today to plan your session.
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Here's to co-creating an unforgettable elopement experience.
Here's to co-creating an unforgettable elopement experience.
I’m Karen, a Southern California Elopement Photographer who empowers couples to create memories that will last a lifetime. I am dedicated to providing the tools you need to create an unforgettable experience.
I help couples by providing personalized location lists, planning resources, vendor recommendations, permits, timeline-curation, and much more to curate elopement days that will be cherished forever.
Your Southern California Elopement Photographer, planning expert, and adventure pal.
I'm here to empower you to create memories that will last a lifetime.
About Karen
Follow me on Instagram!
@karenagurtophoto
Follow me on Instagram!
@karenagurtophoto
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