07/24/2026
This is a special place in Yosemite that I have been coming to for years and I've been lucky enough to share it with countless couples. If you visit the same location time and and time again, you'll begin to notice the smallest of changes -- like how here, the position of the sun slides a little bit to the south each new morning at this time of year. Each day is different, it is always a new experience. It opens up new compositions, new possibilities, new wonders to share.
As I find myself once again reflecting on weddings, wedding photography, and how I fit into the small slice of time I spend with my clients, I am always brought back to the people. My secret hope has long been when I am a distant memory, after the newlyweds have enjoyed countless adventures and grown old together, that perhaps their grandchildren or even the next generation might stumble across a portrait like this and share the same amazement of a life well lived.
From behind the camera, this is a specific portrait that I've had in my head for the past few weeks. I've been lucky enough to share this location with quite a few couple in that time, creating a unique version for each couple. The portrait shown here is the result of those previous versions. There are little tweaks, small changes to the camera, adjustments to the lighting -- lessons learned to help me get even closer to the image that exists in my mind.
Looking at this image blown up in my studio, it's a portrait that invites you to join them. The magical light of the Sierra stretched across Yosemite Valley, breathing new life to this place as these two celebrate their marriage. It's also a place so familiar, even to those that haven't stood there, while being equally brand new -- the always familiar Half Dome just barely visible in the distance. Step into this place and be amazed.
