Why, Yosemite?
I know what it's like to plan something this intimate in a place this grand and remote. I've done it myself, and I've helped dozens of couples elope here.
So why do I specialize in Yosemite?
I don't. I specialize in you. I care about what you care about, I focus on what you want, and I notice the moments you didn't know would matter until you saw them.
Yosemite is part of your day. You two are the story.
The longer I've been photographing couples, the more I've realized the moments people treasure most are rarely the ones they planned.
They're the ones in between.
The way you look at each other when you think no one's watching. The nervous laugh before your vows. The hand that reaches for the other without thinking. The quiet relief that settles in once you realize you don't have to have everything figured out.
Those are the moments I notice.
Not because they're dramatic, but because they're real.
I'm not here to direct every second or turn your story into something it isn't. I'm here to create the space for you to be yourselves, gently guiding when you need it and stepping back when you don't.
I don't want you to remember spending your day taking photographs. I want you to remember living it because the best kind of nostalgia comes from being fully present.
The Art of
noticing
Planning calls and meetings to guide you through logistics, locations, and details so you never have to do it alone.
A customized photography timeline designed to capture every moment while keeping your day relaxed and enjoyable.
I’ll guide you through the entire permit process and will even submit for you if you'd like.
Two days after your elopement, you’ll get your sneak peeks. More than just a handful of photos, you’ll relive the major moments, the emotions, and the people who made it unforgettable.
Trusted and vetted Yosemite Elopement Vendors, from florists to officiants and everything in between.
Your final collection of high-resolution images, delivered within 10 weeks via private online gallery and backed up for one year.
"Dana’s photographs were worth every penny (and then some)."
David
& Anna
Fill out my inquiry form, and I’ll get back to you within 48 hours (usually much sooner)
01
We’ll hop on a complimentary call to talk about your dream Yosemite elopement. No pressure—just a chance to get to know each other, answer your questions, and see if we’re the right fit.
02
When you're ready, we'll make it official! A signed contract and $2,000 retainer secure your date, so you can start dreaming up all the details.
03
Let’s plan your perfect day. I’ll guide you through logistics, timelines, and more—so everything flows effortlessly, and you can focus on what truly matters.
04
05
The day is here! Take in the views, the emotions, the quiet moments. I’ll be there to capture it all while you soak it in, fully present in every second.
06
Sneak peeks in just 48 hours—so you can relive and share your day right away. Your full gallery will be delivered within 10 weeks ready to be cherished for generations.
The best photos aren't posed, they're experienced
When you’re having fun, when you’re relaxed, when everything just feels right, that’s when the best photos happen. That’s what I help create. Whether we’re capturing your vows in a stunning Yosemite overlook, exploring scenic trails together, or soaking in the quiet beauty between locations, your day is filled with moments that matter. I’m there to make sure it all feels easy, low-pressure, and completely yours.
Some couples want full direction, others just need a little guidance before they fall into their own rhythm. I’m there as much as you need me whether that means gently guiding every step or stepping back so you can have your own moments. Either way, you’ll never be left wondering what to do or how to feel.
"We booked Dana for our Yosemite elopement, and it was the absolute best experience... She was so helpful throughout the entire process and exceeded our expectations in every way."
Maison & Juliana
No two Yosemite elopements look the same, so my Yosemite elopement packages don't either. Half-day, full-day, or two days in the park, each collection built around the day you actually want.
Just the two of you with time to roam? The full day. A small ceremony and picnic with your people? The half day. Want both, one day with family and one that's just yours? The two-day.
This day only happens once (or twice with the two-day!). Let's make it one you'll want to relive.
what's included:
Two full days in the park, spread out however you want them. Two-day coverage means you get to have it all. The ceremony and a day with your loved ones, and perhaps a second day with your new spouse, just the two of you and Yosemite.
what's included:
From early light to sunset, we have room to move through the park and cover the whole day, start to finish. Full-day coverage means we're never rushing. The nerves, the vows, the stolen moments, the awe. You get it all, with time to take it in.
what's included:
Six hours in the park, focused on the heart of the day. Half-day coverage means the essentials, done well. The ceremony, your vows, and portraits right after. If you're picturing time to roam and let the day stretch out, that's the full day.
what's included:
Three hours in the park, focused entirely on the ceremony and the moments right after. Simple doesn't mean less. The vows, the first kiss, the quiet right after, with nothing to manage and nowhere to rush off to.
what's included:
Maybe you're looking for three-day coverage, something at a lodge, or something else all together. I create the custom package to match exactly what you're looking for.
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
"If I could give Dana Rae Photography 100 stars I would... We can’t stop looking at her photos. The hard part will be deciding which ones to print because they are all perfection."
Erick & Dayana
"We had another photographer in mind, but Dana’s work stood out. Her images are colorful, vibrant, and timeless... After speaking with her, we knew we had to make the switch."
Chelsea & Austin
"Dana made us feel so comfortable & prepared... We knew that we were working with someone who really cares about their craft and loves what they do."
Kristine & Mike
Nope! Eloping in Yosemite does not require hiking for amazing views. Most iconic Yosemite locations are available with just a short walk. I will guide you before your day to ensure your locations are perfect for you.
Absolutely! Eloping doesn’t have to mean just the two of you. You can have your closest loved ones there to celebrate with you. Some Yosemite ceremony locations do have guest limits, but I’ll guide you through the best options based on your vision and group size.
As soon as you’re ready! I take on a limited number of elopements each year to give every couple my full attention and an incredible experience. Popular dates—especially in summer—fill up quickly, so the sooner you reach out, the better chance we have to secure your dream date.
Yosemite’s beauty shines in every season, and I always have backup plans ready. If conditions change, we’ll adjust and make sure you still have an incredible experience no matter what. Rain, snow, or golden sun, it’s all part of the adventure.
It’s not about posing for hours, it’s about giving yourselves the time to enjoy your day without feeling rushed. You’ll have space to take it slow in the morning, explore different locations, and spend uninterrupted time together, fully immersed in Yosemite’s beauty. I capture the moments as they happen, so you can be present, knowing every part of your day is documented.