Local
Yosemite
Photographer
Elopement & Proposal Specialist
Hi, I'm Dana
I felt drawn to this place the first time I stepped foot in it. My fiancé and I knew instantly it was where we would get married.
For years I chased every opportunity to shoot in Yosemite I could find. When I finally went full time, coming here wasn't a pivot. It was the only obvious next step.
Before I was a photographer, I spent 15 years as an emergency dispatcher. That job rewired how I think. I read people and environments in real-time, often before a word is ever spoken. If something shifts, I adjust so your experience stays intact.
When I planned my own elopement here I wanted someone who truly knew this park. Someone with a plan, who understood the light, the crowds, and could guide us through it, and I couldn't find them. The experience taught me exactly what is needed and now I am her.
I handle the logistics, you stay fully present.
Most people only visit Yosemite once, I'm here almost every single week
"We were a little nervous about being in front of the camera, but she made us feel so comfortable... she made sure we felt totally prepared and at ease."
Julianna & Maison
Yosemite Elopement Client Review
The moments people treasure most are rarely the ones they planned.
They're the moments in between.
The way you look at each other when you think no one's watching. The nervous laugh before you commit to one another. The hand that always finds theirs.
The quiet relief that settles in once you realize this is your day.
I don't want you to remember spending the day taking photographs. I want you to remember actually being in the moment together.
"Even after starting the day at 3:30 AM and spending over 12 hours with us, Dana managed to deliver our previews within 48 hours... she is an expert of when and where to go in the park!"
Yosemite Photography Portfolio
Proposal Portfolio
Resources & More
Elopement Portfolio
Insider Yosemite Knowledge
View the Blog
+ Planning Help
"I truly had no idea she was there during the proposal (as she hid in the bushes), yet she managed to capture the most incredible, intimate moments so seamlessly."
Tia & Jack
Yosemite Proposal Client Review
How to Elope in Yosemite National Park
Ultimate Guide
This is the guide I wish I had
The Ultimate Yosemite Guide from a Past Yosemite Bride
I remember what it was like being so lost by all the rules, permits, locations, logistics, and everything in between when I planned my own Elopement in Yosemite. So, I took all that knowledge, plus my professional experience and created this guide for you so you'll never have to feel lost like I did.
Yosemite Elopement Guide
When I eloped in yosemite
My role is simple, make Yosemite easy
I photograph Yosemite elopements and proposals, and I'm in the park most weeks of the year. I know where to be and when to be there, whether it's Glacier Point, Taft Point, Sentinel Dome, the Valley floor, El Capitan Meadow, Bridalveil Fall, or the hidden, more intimate spots.
Picking the location is the easy part. The rest is knowing how the light moves, when the crowds thin, and what to do when the weather turns. I got married in Yosemite myself, so I've planned this day as both the bride and the photographer. Whether it's a micro-wedding or just the two of you, I'm so much more than your photographer. I'm your dress buttoner, your tear wiper, your lotion rubber, your ceremony witness, or whatever shoulder you need that day.
I don't want you to remember me as the photographer you hired. I want to be part of why you remember the way the day actually felt.
go ahead, be fully present
I'll handle the rest
The Dana Rae Photography Experience
"Despite several locations being closed due to snow, Dana helped me pick out an awesome spot. She suggested a gorgeous location at Swinging Bridge near Yosemite Falls."
Matthew & Sarah
"From the very beginning, she used her deep knowledge of Yosemite to help us choose the most iconic and breathtaking spots... suggesting natural poses, guiding us with ease, and creating such a fun, relaxed atmosphere."
Devon & Tiffany
"We eloped in Yosemite and Dana was absolutely incredible... she created a clear timeline that matched my vision perfectly. (S)he was organized, professional, and made sure everything ran smoothly. We got all the shots we wanted and more."
Kristie & Shane
Your Yosemite photographer search is over
Elopements starting at $4000
Inquire with Dana Rae
I can't wait to hear more about you two and what you're planning. After you inquire, expect to receive a personal response from me within 48 hours.
I can't wait to connect
