Colorado Springs Family and Couples Photographer
Real Connection. Mountain Light.
This Version of Your Story Deserves to Be Remembered
The way they lean into you without thinking. The look that passes between you when no one else is watching. The laughter that spills out when joy has nowhere else to go. The golden hour chaos of your people, all together, all yours.
This is the season you're in. And it won't stay forever.
What if your photos felt as good as your best days together?
Let it be held. Let it be seen.
Natural light family, couples, elopement, wedding, small wedding, and micro wedding photography in Colorado Springs and beyond.
Real Moments. Real Connection.
Your story lives in the in-between moments. A hand reached for without thinking. The laugh that slips out mid-sentence. Golden light spilling across the mountains while your people lean into each other.
Whether it's a family session on the Front Range, an engagement in the foothills, or an elopement in the wild, your photos should feel like home.
Real Moments. Real Connection.
Photo Cred: Candice Baker Photography
Hi, I'm Sandy.
Photographer. Wanderer.
Wildly Tender at Heart.
This season of your life is full of little things you haven't even noticed yet. The way they reach for you. The laugh that escapes before you can stop it. The chaos that somehow still feels like home.
Your photos should hold all of that, not posed, not stiff, not a version of your family that only exists for the camera.
With me, the session won’t feel like a production. It will feel like an evening together, with room to breathe, move, laugh, and be yourselves. When your gallery arrives, it won’t just show how it looked. It will bring back how it felt.
From the Blog
When Megan and William scheduled their anniversary session at The Paint Mines, they didn't know they'd be expecting by the time we rescheduled. That surprise became the start of their maternity and newborn bundle: a Garden of the Gods maternity session where Megan wore colors she'd spent years learning to choose, and a Ute Valley Park newborn session with baby Marina a few weeks later. This is what the bundle is for. Not just the discount, but the relationship we build along the way. By the time I arrive to meet your newborn, I already know you.
What to wear for couples photos in Colorado doesn't have to be overwhelming. This complete guide covers outfit ideas for engagement sessions, anniversaries, proposals, and just-because sessions, plus how to coordinate without matching, the best colors for Colorado's mountains, red rocks, and golden fields, and practical tips for shoes, layers, accessories, and weather. Wear something that feels like you, let your connection stay the focus, and the photos will take care of themselves.
Figuring out what to wear for family photos doesn't have to be overwhelming. This complete guide covers everything, colors that photograph beautifully, how to coordinate without matching, outfit ideas for moms, dads, kids, and babies, plus Colorado-specific guidance for every season and location. From mountain meadows to red rocks to golden fields, here's how to dress your family so you can stop stressing and just show up.
You don't have to match. In fact, please don't. This guide breaks down how to coordinate your family's outfits so everyone looks connected without looking like a catalog ad. Learn the anchor piece strategy, how to build a palette, why texture and layers matter, and specific guidance for moms, dads, kids, babies, and extended families. Plus realistic tips for busy parents who don't have time to overthink it.
The colors that photograph beautifully in July aren't the same ones that work in October. This guide breaks down the best color palettes for spring, summer, fall, and winter in Colorado, plus location-specific guidance for mountain meadows, red rocks, golden fields, and snow. Learn which colors pop, which ones disappear, and how to choose a palette that works for your family and your backdrop.
Garden of the Gods is one of the most romantic places in Colorado Springs to propose. From glowing red rocks at sunrise to hidden overlooks at sunset, it’s a landscape built for unforgettable love stories.
This guide shares the best proposal spots, from iconic landmarks to quiet corners known only to locals. With timing tips, celebration ideas, and real examples from Cade & Nicky and Kyle & Raquel, you’ll find everything you need to plan your own perfect proposal.
When Tabetha’s longtime photographer stepped back from sessions, she was determined not to let go of her tradition: annual birthday photos for her daughter, Lileah. In her search for a new family photographer in Colorado Springs, she was drawn to the candid, emotive style that felt closest to what she’d loved before, and what she hoped to keep building as part of her family’s legacy.
This session wasn’t about stiff poses or perfect smiles. It was about catching the details, Lileah’s curls in the sunlight, the laughter as she ran down the steps, the way her mom pointed and whispered, “That’s it. That’s why we’re here.” In this post, I share their story, what to look for when choosing a candid family photographer, and why birthday photo traditions can become one of the most meaningful ways to preserve your family’s history.
This is the honest guide I wish I could hand to every family who asks where to go for photos in Colorado Springs. After more than a decade photographing families across the Front Range, I've learned that the right location isn't about chasing the most famous view, it's about finding the spot that fits who you're bringing to it. Garden of the Gods for the red rock drama. Ute Valley Park for the wild prairie light. North Cheyenne Cañon when you want the mountains to rise close enough to feel. Red Rock Canyon for the families who do better in quieter spaces. Black Forest for the golden light that pours through the pines. And a few others in between. This guide is what I've learned about matching families to places, and why, in the end, the people always matter more than the backdrop.
Dreaming of a wedding day that’s wild, free, and entirely yours? Colorado might just be the perfect place. Whether you’re envisioning a private vow exchange on a mountain peak or an intimate ceremony surrounded by golden aspens, this guide covers everything you need to know, from self-solemnizing your marriage to picking the dreamiest locations. 🌿
As an elopement photographer and guide rooted in the heart of Colorado, I’m here to walk you through every step. If you’re ready to skip tradition and create a day that feels like coming home, dive into the full guide and start dreaming up your perfect Colorado elopement adventure.
Family photo sessions don’t have to feel stiff or forced. Imagine hiking through the stunning foothills of Colorado Springs, laughing, and connecting with your loved ones while I capture it all. This blog is all about turning your photography session into a true adventure, something that feels as natural as it looks.
I’ll share how you can choose the perfect spot, get your kids engaged in fun activities, and even let go of any expectations to simply enjoy the moment. It’s about more than just pictures; it’s about making memories that feel as real as the mountains around us. Curious? Keep reading to learn how we can turn your family session into a true adventure.
Dubsado is turning 10, and they’re celebrating with a massive sale! For a limited time, you can save 60% on your first year with Dubsado, yes, you read that right! With the code “heyo,” you can take advantage of this amazing deal and streamline your creative business like never before. From automating workflows to managing projects and client communication, Dubsado has everything you need to keep your business running smoothly and efficiently.
I’ve been using Dubsado for years, and it has truly transformed the way I handle the backend of my business. If you’re a photographer, designer, or any type of creative business owner, this tool will help you save time, reduce stress, and make sure no detail falls through the cracks. Don’t miss out, this offer ends soon!
When I was asked to lead a mini session on street photography at the 2018 Dear Photographer Elevate + Grow Workshop in Portland, Oregon, I was humbled and honestly beside myself. The group of photographers that frequent the Dear Photographer community are inspiring, uplifting, and downright amazing (just take a look around their Facebook Page and you will see what I mean). I am blessed to be able to take part in such a lovely group. The Elevate + Grow 2019 Workshop that will take place in Austin, Texas is already sold out and I am excited to say that I will be there. This will be my fourth year running with these girls and can I just say how thankful I am to hang my hat in their group.
AnneMarie and her crew have changed so much over the years. Their family has grown and I am thankful to have been there for the changes. When I first met them, their youngest boy was only two or three at the most and now they have a baby sister to hang out with too! As a mama to five babes, I completely get that documenting your family as it grows can be a daunting task. I will tell you, friend, it is so worth it. To help ease the stress I have some suggestions on the best way to get started (and some reasons for a session, so you don’t have to find your own, haha!).
Decide what story you want to tell. Do you want to document every year of your children's lives? Or do you want to focus on specific milestones? Knowing what story you want to tell will help you narrow down which photos are most important to document and that will help guide your decisions around photography and professional sessions versus home photos. Some clients love to meet up with me every few years to document their children’s growth. Some meet up during pregnancy and birth and then when babe is a bit older. This family met with me when they were a family of four, then when mama was pregnant, and now they are a fam bam of five! There are so many reasons to jump in front of the lens. They are all valid and you are worthy of having your family’s love documented in an authentic way.
Having a connection with your photographer is important, friends. Creating rapport and a comfort level that feels good is something that should be strived for. This helps me, your photographer, document your authentic moments, naturally. Connecting with your photographer also allows them to understand your vision for the session and what’s important to you. I truly believe that the more you get to know the person documenting your heart, the better experience overall you are likely to have. I want to document your essence and tell your story through your gallery. Period.
When you have a connection with your photographer, they will be able to understand what you are trying to highlight and will be able to provide you with a gallery that reflects that. For me, the perfect gallery should be able to not only capture the physical details of our time together but also the emotions and personalities of your children that you know and love so well. When looking for a photographer, it is important to find someone who you feel comfortable with and can trust to create with you and document your authentic love and connection.
The trip to Rocky Mountain National Park was fueled by a family session referral from another local photographer. I got to meet up with Sarah and her family in the mountains because the super sweet Katie Mitzelfelt of Katie Mitz Photo (go check her out because she is amazing!) recommended me. Thanks, friend!
This was a last-minute addition to my schedule and I had only been to Rocky Mountain a handful of times before but knew the area I wanted to shoot in fairly well. With COVID and all the capacity limitations that came along with it in the summer of 2021, I was lucky that sunset was later in the evening so I could get to where I needed to be without a permit, which was pretty damn awesome.
My daughter, Emma, and I left early so I could scout out the perfect spot for their extended family that would be doable for everyone and still looks amazing. Emma and I stopped at a few locations along our way but they weren’t it. When I find a location that is “it” I get super giddy and excited. I will literally jump up and down and run around thinking of all the things that I can do within the space. Serious. Ask her.
When a couple reaches out to me to book me for their wedding, the first thing on my mind is, when can we meet? It is important for you to get to know your wedding photographer and you can do that by booking an engagement session with them too and that is just what Caroline and Tommy did. Your wedding photographer is spending quite a bit of time with you on your wedding day, it makes sense to make sure you vibe together well. An engagement session (along with pre-wedding meetings) helps create a feeling of trust with your photographer and them with you.
For Tommy and Caroline, including Caroline’s son, Gabe, in their engagement session was something that meant a lot to both of them. I get questions from clients often who book an engagement session asking if their children can join. My answer will always be yes! My own family is a blended family so I truly understand the feelings surrounding not leaving anyone out. Sometimes I hear worries of it being more of a family session and less of a celebration of your love. Please don’t worry about that part. It is easy to create space and time for your engagement photos as well as document the love you have for your whole family during our time together. I got you!
This family traveled to Colorado Springs on vacation and met with me to have an extended family session. To get everyone together and document was so lovely and important. They take a vacation each year and decided that Colorado Springs would be perfect for them this time around.
I wish that when I was a kid and my family and I got together, that we did an extended family session like this. My mom has five sisters and I have 14 cousins. Each year when I was a little girl, most of us would travel to my aunt’s home in Ohio each year for Thanksgiving. I have a bunch of home photos but I can’t remember a time when we ever did a professional session like this.
A behind-the-scenes look at a family photography shoot-along mentorship, where learning happens in real time alongside real families. This session captures connection, curiosity, and the kind of growth that unfolds when photography is shared, not siloed.
Click Magazine has long been known for offering thoughtful education and meaningful resources for photographers at every stage. This post shares why Click continues to stand out, from its women-led perspective to its backend tools, learning opportunities, and creative encouragement, alongside a quiet still-life project inspired by the magazine itself.
Guides and Resources
Stories Worth Remembering
Family photography at Great Sand Dunes National Park is unlike anything else in Colorado. Towering dunes, golden hour light that turns the sand to amber, and the kind of wide-open space that lets a family just be. Jessica and Mitchell brought their whole crew, kids, grandparents, and their Newfoundland, for an evening session that started in the trees and chased the sun all the way to the horizon. This is what a Wild collection session looks like, and it's worth every mile of the drive.
Alyssa and Carsten traveled to Colorado to marry themselves, no officiant, no witnesses, just the two of them speaking vows in a mountain meadow near Lake George as the golden hour light wrapped around them. This LGBTQ mountain elopement is a quiet, sun-drenched celebration of what self-solemnizing in Colorado makes possible: two people, one decision, and all the space in the world to simply be married.
Cassidy’s graduation called for something special—a family session wrapped in love, sunlight, and celebration. We explored a beautiful, tucked-away spot on Air Force Academy land in Colorado Springs (accessible to those with military ID!) and soaked up golden hour in the mountains. Her son Solomon brought all the expressions and sweet mama snuggles, and we ended the evening with magic in the meadow.
Jess and Brooks’ elopement at King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard’s Field of Vision Festival in Buena Vista was a once-in-a-lifetime blend of love, music, and art. From a low-sun ceremony at Meadow Creek to portraits by Jason Galea’s surreal TV installation, their day wove together Colorado’s wild beauty and the festival’s psychedelic spirit. This post dives into their story, and why Field of Vision is one of the most unique places to elope in Colorado.
Brainard Lake at golden hour is nothing short of breathtaking, and this family session captured all the magic, glowing light, mountain views, and the sweetest, most connected moments. With its easy access and stunning scenery, this spot is perfect for families who want a relaxed yet epic Colorado photo experience. Whether the kids were twirling by the water or snuggled up in their parents' arms, every moment felt natural, love-filled, and effortlessly beautiful.
If you’re dreaming of a mountain family session with golden light and heartwarming moments, Brainard Lake is an incredible choice. This session was a perfect mix of adventure and ease, and I can’t wait to share more from this unforgettable evening in the Rockies!
Katie and her kids, Felix and Ophelia, are the kind of family that make this work feel timeless. From Felix’s first session as a baby to their fall portraits near Wilkerson Pass, and now their adventure at The Paint Mines, their bond has always been the heart of the story.
This session was full of running, laughter, and the kind of big, anchoring hugs that say everything about love. In this post, I share their Paint Mines family session, why permits matter at this protected park, and why these three will always remind me what family photography is truly about.
High on the Continental Divide, Cottonwood Pass is one of Colorado’s most breathtaking places to take photos, and the best part is, you don’t need a permit to capture its beauty. With sweeping views of the Sawatch Range, it’s a place where awe and intimacy live side by side.
For Dan and Emma, this session was about more than photos. It was about chasing the light together, standing steady in the wind, and soaking in a landscape they’ve dreamed of calling home. In this post, I share their story, why Cottonwood Pass makes for an unforgettable couples session, and tips for planning your own Buena Vista photography experience.
Barbara and Garrett’s summer elopement at Garden of the Gods was a celebration of love, family, and the Colorado landscape. With their blended family of kids and loved ones gathered close, they created a ceremony that was both accessible and deeply meaningful.
Officiated by the talented Candace Woods, their vows unfolded under the red rocks and wide Colorado sky. In this post, I share their story, tips for eloping at Garden of the Gods, and why this location is one of the best places for family-centered elopements in Colorado Springs.
Jennifer and Brandon booked my maternity and newborn bundle so we could start building trust and connection before their little one even arrived. Their maternity session at Garden of the Gods was relaxed and warm, set against red rock formations and soft golden light.
From choosing the best timing for Jennifer’s growing bump to guiding her through wardrobe options, this session was about more than photos, it was about creating space to feel calm, cared for, and excited for what’s next.
Karissa and Saylor have trusted me with their memories more times than I can count. This time, we ventured all the way to Lake City, Colorado, for a session on Goose Island Bridge, a hidden gem stretching across Lake San Cristobal, now famous thanks to TikTok. Karissa planned the session as part of her birthday adventure, renting a cabin and making it a whole weekend for just the two of them.
We wandered the bridge, skipped stones, and soaked in mountain light that felt like pure Colorado magic. The connection between them is what keeps me coming back to sessions like these. Goose Island Bridge is definitely a spot I’d return to in a heartbeat for anyone dreaming of photos that feel wild, quiet, and deeply true.
Sarah and Kenji traveled from Texas to Estes Park for a romantic mountain getaway, and a photo session to remember it by. What they didn’t expect was that their couples session would turn into a surprise proposal at Sprague Lake in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park. With the original plan at Brainard Lake no longer an option due to seasonal closures, we quickly pivoted to one of my favorite hidden gems in RMNP, and it turned out to be the perfect backdrop for this once-in-a-lifetime moment.
This blog shares the full story of their spontaneous engagement, why Sprague Lake is such an ideal proposal spot, and how I help couples, especially those visiting from out of state, plan unforgettable photo experiences in the Colorado mountains. If you’re dreaming of popping the question during your vacation in Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park, this one’s for you.
Watching a family grow through the seasons of life is one of the greatest honors of this work. In this sunny Denver park session, I got to reconnect with a family I’ve photographed since their maternity days, and this time, we were celebrating Remi’s second birthday.
It was full of light, laughter, and the kind of real connection that makes my photographer heart melt. If you’re into heartfelt storytelling, wildflower toddlers, and golden hour goodness, you’re gonna want to click through.
Some sessions leave a permanent imprint on my soul, and Caitlin’s was one of them. After returning from life-changing journeys in the Amazon and California, I was met with a request that touched my heart in ways I could never have anticipated. Caitlin was coming to Crested Butte to honor her late husband, Jaimie, and the life they had built together. With her dog, Ruger, by her side and mementos of Jaimie’s love surrounding her, she entrusted me to capture these sacred, raw moments. What started as a simple session became something far deeper—a journey through love, loss, and remembrance. To witness Caitlin’s connection to Jaimie and Ruger was an honor, and the images we created became a lasting tribute to their bond. Click through to read the full story, and see how love and loss can transform into a powerful, timeless memory.
Jess and Philip’s Colorado winter wedding at Pinecrest Weddings & Event Center was a heartfelt celebration just days before Christmas. With family and friends traveling from across the world, their love story, rooted in long-distance devotion, unfolded beautifully against the stunning Colorado mountain backdrop. From an intimate first look to golden-hour portraits near Palmer Lake, every moment was filled with warmth and connection. Their reception was a joyful celebration, complete with heartfelt conversations and an unforgettable dance floor. Step into this romantic Colorado wedding!
Friends, grab a cup of hot chocolate (or a fattie, no judgment here) because today, I’m getting a little sappy. Wild Prairie Photography is celebrating TEN years in business and SIX years of doing this crazy photographer thang full time! Being your go-to Colorado Family Photographer and capturing life’s magic in Colorado Springs and beyond has been a dream come true. Honestly, it feels surreal to even type those numbers out. I mean, how did we get here? Oh yeah, it was you, boo. It was you reaching out to have that sweet love you and your crew share with each other documented in the most tangible ways. It was you who kept coming back, year after year, allowing me the joy of watching your family grow in age and in number. It was always you.
This milestone is as much yours as it is mine. You’ve trusted me to capture your messy, real, laugh-till-your-face-hurts kind of love and the fleeting moments that make your hearts skip a beat. Whether we’ve frolicked in golden fields at sunset, braved the cold in the foothills (some of you KNOW this feeling, like, to your bones), or adventured to epic destinations, every single one of you has made my wildest dreams come true. Cue the ugly crying (but in the pretty lighting, of course). So…
Brooke and James chose to have their ultra-private Elopement ceremony with each other in Twin Lakes, Colorado. I am filled with gratitude I was able to tag along and photograph their first looks, exchanging of vows, and all the other moments that make an elopement one for the heart. These two put thoughtful effort into the details of their special time together. From their vow books to James’ custom leather suspenders, they really did create magic in the mountains with me.
This was the second elopement that I had photographed in Twin Lakes but this location was new and the previous elopement was at sunrise, though the same time of year. New for me equals excitement and renewed creative spirit! I was in it for everything I had and I do think it shows. The colors of fall were showing off and the day was unusually warm and ended with the most amazing sunset the couple had seen since they arrived in Colorado a few days earlier. They had come to Colorado on a special trip to get married and were staying near Como at a beautiful Airbnb in the cliffs.
Alice, a holistic therapist who works with clients in Colorado, Kansas, and California, reached out to me for a branding session to show her potential clients who she authentically is while they are trying to decide if they want to work with her. Alice wanted images that reflected her soul at its base to share on her website and social media. Branding sessions are perfect for these types of needs and Alice showed up in her fullest self and together, we made magic in the creek at Castlewood Canyon just outside of Denver, Colorado.
When booking her time with me, Alice mentioned that she wanted to be sure to include the elements in her images because they are important to her process as a holistic therapist. When I book with a new client, I love to schedule a video call with them to talk over their photography needs in detail and to ensure that I understand their vision and what they want to walk away from our time together. Together, we decided how she would represent each element: earth, air, water, fire, and, we made a plan. She brought crystals, palo santo, and sage with her and we used the creek and wind to pull the rest of the elements together.
Carmen and her crew traveled to the Rocky Mountains for a family session with me where they announced their pregnancy with their sons. We went to one of my favorite spots, Brainard Lake, and we adventured in the forest, exploring all the moss covered everything. Walking on logs to show off how well they can balance, the boys really sunk into time with their parents and their parents got to be present with them too. Gifts all around, friends.
These kiddos (and their mom and dad) were so fun to hang with. They were also already practicing at being big big brothers by taking turns carrying a bag and flowers their family brought to the session. The boys definitely wanted to help and it was pretty sweet. As we made our way through the forest, along the rushing creek, the boys excitedly talked with me about their lives and were eager to show off their balancing and rock finding skills. To see them light up sharing things that were important to the is super special and I am thankful I got to be there for it.
These friends right here, they are the ones who embrace the adventure, the mess, and the magic of it all. This was our second rendezvous and this time, we had a mountain view! When they heard about a new spot I wanted to try nestled in the Rocky Mountains, complete with a river and a dreamy shoreline, they were all in. The boys, all three of them bursting with energy, couldn't wait to dive into the adventure we had during their Dream Stream Colorado Family Session.
The kind humans make my job as a Colorado Family Photographer an absolute joy. They’ve got this infectious enthusiasm, a love for trying something new, and an amazing ability to be in the moment. We started our session at the river's edge, where the boys immediately took to skipping stones and exploring the shore. Their laughter was the soundtrack to our evening, pure bliss.
As a Rocky Mountain Family Photographer, I’m always on the lookout for locations that offer a bit of everything, and this spot did not disappoint. The Dream Stream area is nothing short of magical, with sweeping mountain views, lush greenery, and a river that runs some pretty impressive fish. It’s a photographer’s dream, and getting to share it with these babes made it even more special.
Emily and Chase reached out to me shortly before they began their cross-country van trip from the east coast. They had decided they wanted to forgo the big wedding idea and elope during their time in Colorado while on the trip. When they had first reached out, they were interested in eloping at Garden of the Gods, which is a beautiful place! It is close to me and I visit there often. Emily and I had our video call shortly after she reached out and I could tell they wanted this elopement to be something epic (duh, as you SHOULD!). I suggested that she look at some other locations I have listed in my Location Catalog and she fell in love with Brainard Lake.
I had shot at Brainard Lake several times last year and I loved the space so much, I was excited to be going back again. Emily and Chase needed a sunrise elopement because they had plans that evening and it would work better for their schedule. I had never shot at sunrise at Brainard Lake but damn, I was down for it. From my side, this elopement coverage required some special planning. The location is about 3 hours from my home and sunrise was at 5:30 am that day, you do the math. Sleepover! I turned this sunrise elopement into a travel date with my kids and we had the best time visiting RMNP and sleeping someplace new. Best thing about it? I didn’t have to get up extra early and worry about fighting traffic or missing sunrise because I was less than an hour away in Estes Park. I won that day. For sure.
These high school sweethearts (and their pup, Penny) adventured with me near Rocky Mountain National Park for their private elopement ceremony. Sav and Casey wanted their raw, emotional, and tearful moments to be something they could look back on in the future. They knew that these moments, the ones where they express their lifelong devotion to each other could not be something that they could document on their own. Enter me. It’s been a hot minute since I’ve shared what I have been creating over here at Wild Prairie Photography and this elopement really ticked all my “dream session” boxes so I figured what better way to break back into the habit than with this.
Elizabeth, Matthew, and ALL of your family thank you. Thank you for bringing me to Arizona to photograph your sunrise elopement in the Saguaros. Thank you for showing me around your amazing little town of Patagonia. Thank you for the evening we spent in the San Rafael Valley. Thank you for the good food. Thank you for the friendship and kindness. Thank you for it all. I felt truly welcome in the space that you call “home” and I would gladly adventure back in a heartbeat.
Elizabeth and Matthew hail from a small town close to the Mexico border. They flew me down to spend the weekend with them and their families for a celebration of their marriage. Elizabeth is a queen and so is her mom. Seriously. Last year, we were supposed to be doing all of this but COVID wouldn’t stand for it. This year, it was on.
To start my trip, I ventured into the San Rafael Valley to scout out the perfect spot for their sunset session the next evening. This scouting trip involved a tiny car, miles of dirt roads, an amazing sunset, a Mexico border fence, and an interaction with Border Patrol. Yes, I got pulled over. Yes, they searched my rental car for bodies and drugs, to which, I had neither. Thankfully, haha. In the end, they were nice and it was a once (I hope) in a lifetime experience for me. By the end of the evening, I had found a great location AND had a great story to tell. I. Was. Winning.
Planning your out-of-state elopement can feel a bit scary and uncertain, that’s where I come in! Jes and I planned her intimate elopement to Ken at Garden of the Gods and it couldn’t have been more authentic or lovely. It was just Jes, Ken, and myself during their elopement. It was full of happy tears, tender moments, soulful love and I am thankful I got to take part.
When you book an elopement photographer, you want to make sure that you feel comfortable being your authentic self with them. Find someone who shares your heart for the things you are passionate about. Allow yourself to connect with them on a deeper level. It should be more than, “Hello, I am your photographer, now let’s take your photo”. Your elopement photographer should listen to you and take interest in your life. Someone who can feel you and your love and radiate back to you through a gallery of images that authentically show the love you and your partner share.
This Cottonwood Pass hiking elopement took place near Buena Vista, Colorado, along the Lost Lake Trail. Alex and James chose an intimate mountain ceremony surrounded by alpine lakes, quiet trails, and the kind of adventure that feels deeply personal and true.
Carly & Corey’s wedding at Edgewood Inn in Woodland Park was nothing short of magical. Like many 2020 couples, they had to change their plans, but this mountain venue turned out to be the perfect backdrop for their day. With breathtaking Pikes Peak views and the warmest, most welcoming friends and family, their celebration was filled with love, laughter, and heartfelt moments that had me holding back tears more than once.
As the rain poured down, it only made the day feel more intimate and cinematic. We caught a break in the storm just in time for portraits, and the moody skies, misty mountains, and golden light peeking through made for the dreamiest wedding photos. Carly & Corey trusted me completely to capture their love, and that trust made all the difference. See their stunning Edgewood Inn wedding and get inspired for your own Colorado mountain wedding!
Family photos hold entire seasons of our lives, yet in a digital world, they’re easier to lose than we expect. Online galleries and cloud storage are helpful, but they aren’t always permanent.
This post gently walks through three simple, realistic ways to back up your family photos so they’re cared for long after the moment they’re taken, in a way that honors both your memories and your real life.