There’s something truly magical about a sunrise El Capitan elopement. The golden morning light. The stillness of Yosemite Valley before the crowds arrive. And the quiet joy of two people promising forever as the world slowly wakes up around them. Kate and Cory’s elopement was just that — magical, intimate, and filled with joyful laughter from start to finish.
Although they had never visited Yosemite National Park before, these two were immediately captivated by its natural beauty. They arrived from out of state, full of anticipation and wide-eyed wonder. It was their first time in California, and they were all in on embracing the experience. I had the honor of guiding them through every step of the planning process — from recommending vendors and selecting the best ceremony location to crafting a timeline that worked around a forecasted winter storm.
Planning the Perfect Sunrise El Capitan Elopement
We originally planned a sunrise ceremony followed by sunset portraits, but Mother Nature had other ideas. With a major winter storm rolling in, we decided to do all of their adventuring and portraits that morning — and honestly, it couldn’t have worked out better.
Because the storm had scared off most visitors, the valley floor felt nearly empty. As we wandered through the meadows and towering pines, it was like we had the entire park to ourselves. The sense of peace was incredible. That feeling of quiet solitude added such a personal, sacred energy to their elopement day.
A Sunrise El Capitan Elopement Filled With Wonder and Laughter
Kate and Cory’s elopement day began in El Capitan Meadow, where they exchanged vows just as the sun peeked over the horizon. Cory’s face lit up when he saw Kate in her bridal look — a moment so sweet and genuine that I could hardly stop myself from tearing up behind the lens.
Kate looked stunning in her gown. And her hair and makeup, done by the incredible Alyssa Jones of Braided Blonde Locks, highlighted her natural beauty perfectly. This sweet couple opted for an especially intimate vow exchange at the foot of El Capitan. So, their elopement ceremony had just the two of them, their officiant, Donny Alexander of Yosemite Adventure Elopements, and myself in attendance.
Then, after their intimate elopement ceremony, we headed toward one of my favorite nearby hiking trails. Our goal was to explore some of the iconic landmarks within Yosemite National Park — and with their adventurous spirits, we hit all the perfect spots. From misty paths lined with towering redwoods to romantic overlooks with views of Yosemite Falls, every scene felt like a dream.
Capturing Joyful Moments During This Sunrise El Capitan Elopement
Kate and Cory had one request: they wanted their love captured honestly and organically. They laugh a lot, and wanted those lighthearted, spontaneous moments to shine through in their gallery. So I followed them quietly, letting them just be together. The couple shared jokes, explored new views, and savored each quiet moment as it came.
From muddy dress hems and shared donut holes to spontaneous dances in the middle of the trail, their day was everything an intimate elopement should be. This elopement day felt joyful, personal, a little messy, and completely unforgettable.
Dreamy Views and Deep Connection in a Sunrise El Capitan Elopement
The gallery from this sunrise El Capitan elopement features panoramic shots of the meadow with El Capitan towering behind them. I also included rich black-and-whites full of emotion and warm true-color edits that bring their laughter and love to life. Kate’s bouquet of neutral dried florals and pale greenery added a soft, natural touch to their portraits.
Some of my favorite images are the in-between moments. I loved capturing the hugs, the giggles, and the wide-eyed wonder as they took in views they’d only dreamed about. Whether they were walking hand in hand beneath redwood trees or standing in awe at the base of a waterfall, the connection between them was so evident.
Your Yosemite Elopement Photographer and Guide
This was my fourth time photographing an elopement in Yosemite National Park. And I’m not exaggerating when I tell you every visit makes me fall in love all over again. With each couple, I grow more familiar with the logistics and possibilities inside the park. I’ve gained experience with the Special Use Permit process, choosing the best ceremony sites, finding the best local elopement packages, and planning where to stay.
Whether you want to get married on a mountaintop or keep things simple on the valley floor, I can help guide you through the process. You can learn more about what it’s like to work together here, and check out more of my photography and videography portfolios, too.
Eloping in Yosemite? Let’s Make It Magical.
There are so many beautiful locations in Yosemite National Park to choose from for your elopement adventure. But what matters most is that your day feels like you. Kate and Cory’s sunrise El Capitan elopement was proof that with a bit of flexibility and a lot of heart, the day can be more than just picturesque. With the right support and planning, it can be deeply meaningful.
If you’re dreaming up your own Yosemite elopement, I’d be so honored to help you plan every detail. I want to document your day with the care, joy, and creativity it deserves. Whether you’re hiking up granite cliffs or walking barefoot through meadows, I’ll be there to pick the thorns out of your veil, hand you snacks, and cheer you on every step of the way. Reach out to start planning your adventure here.
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