The day before they were to be married in Yosemite, this obviously athletic and in love couple peeked into my studio in Mariposa. I had no idea who they were upon first sight and assumed that they were tourists looking for nature and landscape images of Yosemite. It wasn't until she introduced herself with an enthusiastic smile as the bride I would be photographing tomorrow that I discover who they were.

In the early morning light with just their parents to share the moment with them, Staci and Mark stood in a clearing just behind the Yosemite Valley Chapel to marry each other. It was both incredibly simple and emotional. Somehow, even with their parents standing just next to them and Rev. Carol Dewey officiating the ceremony, it was only Staci and Mark there alone in the meadow.

Just after the ceremony I asked them if they had any ideas of where they wanted to go in the park for their photographs. They told me they trusted me entirely; wherever I wanted to take them was the perfect place for wedding portraits. In truth, I really didn't have any one place in mind - that was until they told me that they were not able to make it up to Sentinel Dome the day before. Instantly I knew exactly where we had to go.

A few days earlier they had hiked from from Cloud's Rest down to the valley floor, with a stop over at Half Dome. So they had already been pre qualified as hikers, but hiking in a wedding dress is a completely different story. Not that I have done it, but it doesn't seem exactly easy. I love the looks of awe from tourists that are struggling to climb Sentinel Dome themselves, only to see a bride in a full length dress charge right up the granite face.

Once on top of the dome, we had views stretching in every direction. They could see their previous course from Cloud's Rest to Half Dome, they could see El Capitan standing beneath us, they could see the valley floor far below where they were just married. The world was open before them. And so I present Staci and Mark to you; standing at the top of the world with everything in front of them.

Photographer: Patrick Pike Studios
Hair and Makeup: Bellissimo
Officiant: Rev. Carol Dewey

Wedding on Sentinel Dome in Yosemite.jpg



Comments
Gennett says: Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Patrick, these pictures look fake. totally unreal. incredible!!! you are THE best!

Mollie Lemon says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

These photos are incredible! I know Staci and Mark and you captured them beautifully. Especially love the black and white and the landscape/sky photos.

Linda says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

These are the most amazing wedding photos ever. Thank you for capturing the day, so we could share in Staci and Mark's wedding while stuck here in D.C.

Kristina says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

Staci these pictures are amazing. Now I know why you wanted to get married in Yosemite. Best wishes, Love ya

Brenda Gatica says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

Staci and Mark, thank you for letting us come to your wedding. It is something we will always remember and cherish. You both look so beautiful and Patrick did an amazing job on the photos. Best pictures I have ever seen. Love you both very much! Mom and Dad

Natalie says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

Beautiful!

jeff ambrose says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

i'm going to have to stop looking at your blog. i can't take all this awesome-ness.

Elissa says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

Patrick, all of your work is just incredible. I want to live inside your photos.

sheri says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

you know I am a huge fan of your work and I have to say it's because I am always inspired when I see your new stuff! This set is blowing me away, the ceremony photos are so lovely and dang! That convertible shot is incredible!

Felicia M. says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

These pictures are so beautiful! Congrats Staci and Mark! Love you guys!

Caroline Tolbert says: Friday, September 30, 2011

These pictures are AMAZING congratulations Mark and Staci! You two look great and could not have picked a better spot.

JP Ward says: Friday, September 30, 2011

Congratz Mark & Staci! These images are amazing!!!

patty says: Friday, September 30, 2011

Simply lovely. Congrats!

Matt C says: Friday, September 30, 2011

These shots are stunning. Mark, you are the man. I'm super happy for you both.

Ty says: Friday, September 30, 2011

those pictures are so amazing it looks fake! wow thats amazing

Kathy Kamionek says: Friday, September 30, 2011

Mark and Staci - congratulations again!!! what amazing spectacular photos. have never seen ones like it before...truly vibrant...makes the viewer feel like they're in Yosemite as well. What a memorable trip!!

Heather K says: Sunday, October 2, 2011

Gorgeous couple, gorgeous photographs! Congrats Mark and Staci!

Terri Slack says: Sunday, October 2, 2011

These pictures are amazing.
They capture the moment and your intense love.
I could feel it looking at them.
Many congratulations,
Terri

Debbie says: Sunday, October 2, 2011

Beautiful pictures of a beautiful couple. They are so different from the norm but done with taste and elegance. The sky and scenes look unreal. Some the the best pictures I have ever seen. Have fun picking out the best ones.

Arthur says: Sunday, October 2, 2011

Congrats Mark and Staci, great pictures. Beautiful settings and totally you. The outdoor couple for sure.

Rebecca Buning says: Sunday, October 2, 2011

These pictures are stunning! Mark & Staci picked the perfect spot for their wedding, and you captured the love they have for each other in a way that I have never seen before. You are extremely talented!

Leanne says: Sunday, October 2, 2011

Breathtaking, These are the most unique and personal wedding pictures I have ever seen. Congratulations Mark and Staci.

Stacy Groggel says: Sunday, October 2, 2011

WOW!! These photos are gorgeous! One of my favorites is the one in which Staci and Mark are reflected in the water...and the ones where they are just surrounded by sky and clouds are unbelievable!

Congrats Mark and Staci...so very happy for you!

Liz says: Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Beautiful pictures... beautiful wedding...

Yaidi says: Wednesday, October 5, 2011

OMG!!! stunning pics, very lovely couple! Staci, bellisima! Lots of blessings for both of you!

Gary Guerra says: Monday, December 19, 2011

You two look so happy! Amazing photographs! Congratulations!

Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Staci and Mark . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://patrickpike.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/223
They are one of the most relaxed couples I have ever met and that was exactly how they wanted it.

Amber and David did not want all of the stress that is wrapped up in a traditional wedding, so instead they planned a very small wedding in Yosemite for just their closest friends and family. Everyone gathered together at Glacier Point as the sun was setting for their ceremony. It was perfect standing there, watching the sun's last rays slip over Half Dome and listening to Amber and David share their love. It just felt right.

Of course, before that happened we had to actually drive up to Glacier Point from the Ahwahnee where they were staying. We drove together in my car, stopping in meadows and at lookouts together creating dramatic works wherever we went. Talking with them as we traveled was wonderful; they told me all about their relationship together and their dreams for the future. I've said it again and again, but I really treasure these time and learning what love means to each individual couple.

And so there we were, standing on the edge of a mountain, high above the world with breath taking views in in front of us all, and a new life time in front of Amber and David. Their ceremony was wonderfully intimate and light natured, just the way it should be. With smiles all around, everyone embraced the newlyweds with in real love and shared a toast.

When the ceremony was over, we walked around Glacier Point together soaking in the twilight glow. From a photgraphic standpoint, I love the wide range of wedding photographs that we were able to create; from the dreamy portraits in the meadows of Yosemite Valley to the starlit magical scene at Glacier Point. The day was like a creative playground for me. And throughout everything and in every place, Amber and David have each other.


yosemite elopement.jpg
glacier point elopement under stars.jpg

Comments
jeff ambrose says: Friday, September 23, 2011

so good patrick, such a gorgeous backdrop.

Michelle Edgington says: Friday, September 23, 2011

Gorgeous!!! From day to night in Yosemite...what an amazing experience, amazing backdrop, amazing couple! Love you guys & love the photos!

Morgan says: Friday, September 23, 2011

These are amazing! Like, National Geographic amazing! I'm so happy for you kids!

Katie Bofenkamp says: Friday, September 23, 2011

Congratulations Amber and David! The setting is so perfect. Absolutely stunning pictures!

Fer says: Friday, September 23, 2011

These are the MOST beautiful wedding pictures I've EVER seen!!!

Lori Baum Ross says: Friday, September 23, 2011

It was a magical setting for a magical couple. Love and blessings for each day of each moment.
Love,
Lori and Harold

Patti Larsen says: Friday, September 23, 2011

Oh My God! Amazing Pictures. To be treasured for a lifetime.

ted says: Friday, September 23, 2011

Awesome in a box!

Terri (from TRP) says: Friday, September 23, 2011

AMAZING! You both look beautiful, and so in love....Congratulations!

Terri (from TRP) says: Friday, September 23, 2011

AMAZING!!! You both look so beautiful and in love...Congratulations!

Meredith Coulibaly says: Sunday, September 25, 2011

Beautiful couple and beautiful photos! Congratulations!

Kim Hulen says: Sunday, September 25, 2011

I am so happy for the both of you...The pictures are amazing!!! You have both traveled so far and will continue on a great journey...Congrats =)

Rene Urbanovich says: Monday, September 26, 2011

Dear Patrick and Amber,
This is it. You nailed it. I have never seen a ceremony with so much beauty that exemplified the sacredness of marriage and the wonder of romance .,..what a challenge. These pictures are UTTER MAGIC. Your photographer is a cut above the rest. WOW. I am stunned. Thanks for making me cry!

Sarah says: Monday, September 26, 2011

These are amazing! Makes me want to have another wedding ;-)

Geoff says: Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Well....just look at the magic this photographer came up with considering the subjects. Just kidding, these are really nice photos. You picked a really skilled photographer. Best of luck to you both. Geoff

Ellen Cafferata says: Thursday, September 29, 2011

What beautiful pictures of a beautiful couple. Best wishes to you both always.
Congratulations!

Barbara( Schminke) Vlach and Doug Parsen says: Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Very classy choices! We love the intimacy of your small wedding in one of the most gorgeous places on earth,(energetically sacred too!) Let this beautiful energy be the kickoff to a long and wonder filled life together!
The last photo with the sky writing is exquisite....never seen anything like it.

Love, Barbara and Doug

Maurine Ruano says: Wednesday, October 5, 2011

The pictures are so beautiful. Can't wait to see the rest of them.
Just amazing!

David and Laura says: Friday, October 7, 2011

Beautiful photos! We can't wait to see you all at Myles' wedding!

David and Laura

Sherry and Cash Rest says: Friday, October 7, 2011

What a beautiful setting for your wedding! We're so happy for you!

Much love,
Aunt Sherry and Uncle Cash

Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Amber and David . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://patrickpike.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/222
June 30, 2011
Four days before their wedding, as I was walking into a restaurant in my home town of Mariposa, someone that I had never seen before look at me as said "Hey, are you Patrick?" It was Beka and John and the first leg of their honeymoon / wedding. On their way up to Yosemite to explore and head into the backcountry for a few days, they stopped by Mariposa for the night. They were simply exploring, taking in as much as they possibly could and enjoying the road together.

This love of exploration and appreciation for the land really runs right through their wedding. When Beka first contacted me last year about getting married in Yosemite we talked about her and John getting married in Tuolumne Meadows. They were drawn to the area because of the their love of the everything outdoors and rock climbing in particular. But when the time came for their ceremony and Tioga Pass was not opened for the season yet, we knew their ceremony location would have to be moved. 

Neither Beka nor John were put off by the location change. Instead they were excited to experience something new. They decided on an early morning wedding on Cathedral Beach. Instantly I had pictures in my mind what it would look like; the sun slipping through the trees, sparkling off of the sand and glancing off of El Capitian. 

On their wedding day I was the first to arrive at Cathedral Beach and quickly realized this plan would not work either. With the warm temperatures in Yosemite the river was swollen and entering a flood stage, covering Cathedral Beach with five feet of water. In this was good news however. The river pushed up against the trees and left Beka and John the perfect place for their ceremony. It was there, in the early morning light under the trees, in a beautiful ceremony by Rev. Carol Dewey that Beka and John shared their love and became husband and wife. What stands out in my mind most as I think back on that ceremony is they way that Beka and John held each other during the ceremony. They couldn't stand apart from each other in a moment like this, but instead embraced each other and held on tight. I couldn't help but wonder why every couple doesn't do this.

Once there ceremony was over we headed out across Yosemite Valley to take in the sweeping views. It became clear immediately that Beka and John would be willing to go anywhere and do anything with me to get that perfect photograph; something that I decided to take advantage of it. We drove out of the valley and headed up to Sentinel Dome to take in the 360 degree view. As we hiked up to Sentinel Dome we were greeted by a foot of snow covering the granite and even a group of skiers taking turns hitting a jump they created. It was a bit surreal to see this in the middle of June, but there it was.

From the top of Sentinel Dome the views are jaw dropping. You can see deep into the Sierras (including the route that Beka and John had hiked just days before) and nearly to the Pacific Ocean. It really is one of my favorite places in the park. In the midday sun, the fallen jeffery tree at the top of Sentinel Dome takes on the look of a lost piece of driftwood lodged in a sandy beach, the perfect place for Beka and John.

It was this wedding photographers dream. Not only were we able to visit some of the most beautiful places on earth, but everywhere we went Beka and John were there, with love pouring. Their love and interaction makes these photographs come to life. Beka and John are wonderful people in every sense of the word and it was a complete pleasure to spend the morning with them.

Officiant: Rev. Carol Dewey
001beka_john.jpg
025beka_john.jpg

Comments
Beth says: Thursday, June 30, 2011

I think this is one of my favorites!!

Beka says: Thursday, June 30, 2011

Beautiful! Thank you, Patrick! You work is beyond amazing...we couldn't have asked for better photography to capture our day.

ashley says: Thursday, June 30, 2011

I think your pictures are beautiful and I love them because there all so very unique :) Congrats !!!

Jennifer says: Thursday, June 30, 2011

Beka, I honestly don't know how you would choose a favorite. They are all truly amazing!!!

Brenna says: Thursday, June 30, 2011

These are hands down the most beautiful wedding pictures I have ever seen. Having known Beka for years I can also say they sum up exactly what I expected her wedding to be like. My goodness they are amazing pictures. They need to be hanging in a gallery or in magazine or something. John I am so glad Beka found you. You obviously make her very happy. I wish you guys all of the best (and lots and lots of babies..)

Kim Adams says: Thursday, June 30, 2011

those are some amazing pictures. beka you look absolutely stunning in those pics.

Angie says: Friday, July 1, 2011

Beka, Patrick did a wonderful job with your wedding pictures. These are so unique, beautiful and special. I love them!

Cynthia says: Friday, July 1, 2011

These photos are so beautiful they look un-real. I love the textured backgrounds and simplicity of composition. Thank you for sharing this happy day with us.

sherry hazelwood says: Monday, July 4, 2011

BEAUTIFUL pictures of a very SPECIAL couple!

Kathy says: Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Amazing, amazing pictures! Thank you so much for making it possible for us to share in John and Beka's special day.

Shannon says: Monday, July 18, 2011

I absolutely love these pictures!!! Each and every one of them is breathtaking!

Sydney says: Monday, July 18, 2011

Such beautiful pictures! Magazine quality! Congrats and good luck with everything!

Kelle says: Monday, July 18, 2011

Your pictures of Beka and John are absolutely gorgeous! You truly captured their special moments together perfectly. They have treasures to last them a lifetime with your photographs!

Morgan says: Monday, July 18, 2011

Beka, these pictures are amazing. You look beautiful and so happy. I had a hard time picking a favorite, they were all so good.

Margaret Morris says: Monday, July 18, 2011

These pictures are amazing! She looks like a model and it's almost like they're against a back drop!

Sharon Overbury says: Monday, July 18, 2011

I love the pictures...... amazing place and an awesome couple!

Kate P says: Monday, July 18, 2011

The narrow of Both foreheads touching, holding hands--the most natural, easily my favourite!!

AC says: Monday, July 18, 2011

These are the most amazing wedding pictures I've ever seen. Congrats and good job :D

Trish says: Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Absolutely gorgeous pictures!!!! The photographer did a wonderful job capturing the love shared between the two of you. Best Wishes my friend.

Winnie says: Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Amazing pictures! What a beautiful way to start their life together!

Marti says: Tuesday, July 19, 2011

These pictures are great!!!

Elaine says: Tuesday, July 19, 2011

These pictures are beautiful. I especially like the black and white head shot. You both look very happy and very much in love.

Sonny says: Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Great Pictures! Many seem unreal.

Lora Nanny says: Tuesday, July 19, 2011

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE these pictures. The best I have ever seen! Wonderful pictures for two wonderful people!

Jessika says: Wednesday, July 20, 2011

These photos are amazing! I particularly like the one where they are standing in a glen hugging. It's perfect. The short story about meeting Beka and John is adorable, as well.

Bettye Harris says: Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Those pictures are beautiful! What a great place to get married!

Bettye Harris says: Wednesday, July 20, 2011

These are beautiful pictures!! What a great place for wedding!

Alex says: Thursday, July 21, 2011

Beautiful pictures, they are truely amazing.

Cait Gagnon says: Saturday, July 23, 2011

These photos are absolutely amazing! Beka and John have been a huge part of my life for several years now, and I could not have envisioned a more perfect wedding album for them. The lighting is beyond amazing, and you can really see the beauty, love, and peace in this wonderful couple. Patrick, great job capturing the stunning beauty of my best friend and her equally wonderful husband. I wish I had words to convey how breathtaking I find this album. Thank you for your phenomenal talent, and congratulations to two of my favorite people in the whole world!

Holly Clarke Gardner says: Monday, July 25, 2011

I have no idea who these people are, but it's obvious that they love each other SO MUCH!! What beautiful people and what fun. Great work, Patrick. Congrats, Beka & John!

Jennifer says: Monday, August 1, 2011

These pictures are all so very amazing!! Seeing Beka's wedding thru your photographs brings tears to my eyes every time I look at them!!

Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Beka and John . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://patrickpike.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/209
Moments before Priscila and Steve's ceremony at Lower Yosemite Falls, the area was coverd in a mix of rain and hail. Winds whipped at the trees and the sky was dark. For the 1st of June, this weather was completely unexpected. Unlike previous days when tourists flooded the valley, now they were seeking shelter from the storm. Although they may have been warm and dry inside, they missed seeing Yosemite's dramatic side.

Priscila and Steve planned an intimate destination wedding in Yosemite. They were joined by a handful of their friends and family, including her parents who traveled from Brazil. Rev. John Paris officiated the ceremony at Yosemite Falls overlook. It was simple and beautiful; it focused directly on their love and the support of their loved ones.

When the ceremony ended, Priscila and Steve were instantly surrounded by their friends and family in embraces of love. We spent a few minutes there in that place photographing them all together before heading out across the valley and into weather. It was not goodbye of course, they would all be together soon for dinner at the Ahwahnee.

From my standpoint the shifting weather made for perfectly dramatic photographs. All across Yosemite Valley pools of light poured through the sky, while dark ominous clouds created mood and texture. Everything was filled with untold energy. Yet somehow as we traveled around the valley we managed to avoid the rain and hail. As we would drive, hail would shower us; but almost as if on cue it would stop as soon as we needed to get out of the car.

Throughout all of this, was the constant of Priscila and Steve looking as if it was a warm sunny day. The so called bad weather could not affect their love. The were too busy soaking it in, enjoying the wedding day that they had been blessed with. They knew the secret; once you have the love of your life in your arms, anything and everything is something to enjoy together.

Hair and Makeup: Bellissimo
Officiant: Rev. John Paris




Comments
Carol Cardinale says: Friday, June 3, 2011

Fabulous as usual!

Priscila says: Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Wow, Patrick! After being away for almost a week and not being able to access internet during this time, I am in awe of the absolutely amazing work you do! Thank you so much for the great time during the adventurous photo shoot in Yosemite. Steve and I couldn't have been happier with our choice. The story you wrote is also so true to the moments we went through! :-) It was a pleasure working with you and we can't wait for the entire selection for us to create our priceless album.
Abraços (this means "hugs" in Portuguese) to you and your family.

Robin says: Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Just beautiful. The stormy skies add so much.

Nancy says: Wednesday, June 8, 2011

These pictures are great!....

Liza says: Wednesday, June 8, 2011

You made a beautiful bride Pri! The photographs are absolutely stunning! Having Yosemite as your background is amazing. Its so surreal. Congratulations! Love to you both, Liza

Kim Hodgkinson says: Wednesday, June 8, 2011

It was such a beautiful wedding ceremony in a gorgeous spot. Robin and I were so happy to be included in the special day. Priscila was a gorgeous bride! Love to you both.

Nil says: Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Que lugar maravilhoso hein....as fotos estao lindas!!!!!!!!!!!!!parabens...

Lavonne Mireles says: Thursday, June 9, 2011

Patrick, your photos spoke to me, they are beyond lovely. The moments you captured are intense, I could almost feel what it was like to be at the weddings! I even cried a little, super well done!!!

rosalina says: Thursday, June 9, 2011

Oieeeeee...
Meus queridos,irmã,cunha e sobrinhos !!! Tudo muito lindo, maravilhoso! Que lugar é este ??? Parece que saiu dos livros de contos de fadas e vc, Pri, é com certeza a "Princesa,"juntamente com seu "Príncipe"...e a capelinha então, que encanto, nos transfere imediatamente aos primórdios da colonização...amei...
É tudo tão lindo que não parece estarem diretamente na natureza e sim num cenário cinematrográfico...um show ...
Muitas felicidades e que Deus os abençoe e guie sempre !!!
Miga & Cia
Obs.: a Sorela avec Lindemar estão um glamour só...

says: Thursday, June 9, 2011

Congrats.
Ni pra vocês.
Hugs.

Amanda Vining says: Thursday, June 9, 2011

Absolutly stunning! Pri you look amazing! Benny you clean up rather nicly.... lol. These pictures are amazing. I loved reading the story from Patrick first. Im speachless.... what an amazing day, and all of it seems to be captured perfectly! Congrats you too!

Luciana says: Thursday, June 9, 2011

Pri que maravilhosas as fotos!! Assino em baixo do comentário da Miguinha qndo diz que seu casamento parece um conto de fadas! E vc, sem dúvida é a PRINCESA mais linda!! PARABÉNS!! ESTÁ TUDO INCRÍVEL!

Daniel Camara says: Friday, June 10, 2011

Congratulations :)

My best wishes for the couple, and I hope you have long and happy marriage.

I loved the photos, made me even more sad for not being able to visit the park last time :(. However, whenever you pass by France, let me know :).

Regards.

Rogério Brito says: Friday, June 10, 2011

Priscila and Steve,
Congratulations for the wedding.
The pictures are amazing.

Nathan Colossi says: Friday, June 10, 2011

Congrats, Priscila and Steve!

This place is great, and the pictures are awesome!!

Cheers,
Nathan

Henry e Ci says: Friday, June 10, 2011

Priiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii,

Parabéns! As fotos ficaram lindas!
Achamos o lugar maravilhoso!
Felicidades para vcs!!! =D

Bjos de seus amigos Henry e Ci

Ju says: Saturday, June 11, 2011

Caramba Pri !!!!
Que cenário é este ?!?
Maravilhoso !!!
A Miga tem razão, nem parece real.
Muito lindo, e achei que a chuva, temporal ou tempestade, deram um toque a mais, (pelo menos nas fotos).

Parabéns Pri !!! Seja muito feliz, hoje e sempre.

BeiJu

Mirion Schultz says: Monday, June 13, 2011

Absolutely beaaauuuutiful!...some look like paintings...if I wasn't there I would think was collage. It looks all played its part perfectly...the love and happiness are transparent, God's perfect play with weather, and the photographer to capture all. You deserve!!!

Fábio Schmidlin says: Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Congratulations, Priscila and Steve! My best wishes of happiness to both of you! :D

ann @ wedding favors says: Friday, June 17, 2011

You can create a magnificent masterpiece if you are near with nature. And your photos are truly beautiful.

Nilza Kauhane says: Monday, June 20, 2011

Congratts!!
You guys look sooo goood and happy. The pictures look unreal. Just beautiful.
Love you guys and hope to see you soon.

Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Priscila and Steve . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://patrickpike.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/204
When you ask most people what place your would normally associate with elopements, I think the answer is almost invariably Las Vegas. It has to be one of the ultimate party cities, seemingly fitting for so many who want to be whisked away in love. After all, there is no reason to go through the stress of planning a wedding when you can hop on a plane and get married just a few hours later. But what if that just isn't who you are?

Jennifer and Michael live and breathe in Las Vegas everyday, but they obviously are not part of the crazy entertainment lifestyle that has engulfed the city. They are outdoor enthusiasts spending their weekends together hiking in the backcountry of places like Red Rock Canyon. So when they decided to have a practical wedding, the idea of marrying in Yosemite resonated with them and before too long they were in the Valley.

Their wedding day was gorgeous, some of the best weather we have had in Yosemite in a while. We picked a place on the banks of the river overlooking Yosemite Falls for their ceremony. Each joined by a parent, they held each other in the meadow promising to love and always care for the other. It was simple and amazingly beautiful.

After Rev. Autrey Nassar pronounced them husband and wife, we set out across the valley for photographs. I've always made it clear that I rarely have a destination picked out for where create photographs, I prefer to not limit my creativity to preset locations, we wandered off the path and into the trees.

As we traveled, Jennifer and Michael seemed perfectly at home. Jennifer was hiking in her wedding dress through the forest, across fallen logs and through bushes. The fact that she was excited to do this in her wedding dress says far more about her than I can write her. All I know is that we came into beautiful clearings, spectacular views, and deserted beaches for them to enjoy. And everywhere we went, Jennifer and Michael were together with no one else in sight. It was the first day of their new lives.



Comments
Dennis Pike says: Monday, May 30, 2011

exceptional work as always, Patrick. I love how seamlessly you use light, it always accents the photo perfectly, Never overdone.

Nicole says: Monday, May 30, 2011

Absolutely breathtaking! Congratulations!!! I'm so happy for you both. You look incredibly happy and content with one another. You are so handsome, Mike and Jen, you are GORGEOUS!!!! You two are great together. Beautiful, beautiful and you make a wonderful couple. I love you both SO much. God bless to you, your future and your marriage. xoxo.

Carolyn Fox says: Monday, May 30, 2011

All I can say is that these photographs are absolutely beautiful! Patrick is truly an artist! Thank you for capturing these special moments for Jennifer and Mike to keep forever.

Sue Clark says: Monday, May 30, 2011

Congratulations!! You make a great looking couple! Best Wishes!!

Marc DeDario says: Monday, May 30, 2011

Wow! Absolutely amazing pictures you two! You look soooo happy together. All of the best of luck to yous guys in the future! Jen you look beautiful and Mike you look awesome bro! Congrats again to you both! Hope to see you soon to have a proper cheers!

Lynn & Kevin says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Lovely!!

Kevin & Lynn says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Lovely!

Brian says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Congrats, Awesome spot. Love the pics. Did you guys get some fishing in?

Brenda Neavez says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Congratulations Mike and Jen! May you have a wonderful life together.

Jen Rose says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Amazing photos, LOVE them - Congrats Mike!!

Barbara says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Gorgeus Pictures!! Love them!

Barbara says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Love the pictures, what a great place! Congrats

Katie says: Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Stunning views! How amazing!

Barb says: Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Gorgeus Pictures... Congrats, what a beautiful setting.

Lisa miranda says: Friday, June 3, 2011

Absolutely gorgeous pictures. What a beautiful couple, I have to say. You
Couldn't have picked a better place. Omg, Yosemite
Is such a awesome place to get married. The
Photographer is fantastic. When I see these photos
Of the 2 of you, I get tears of joy in my eyes. Love u both. Mom

Lisa miranda says: Friday, June 3, 2011

Mike and Jen you both look absolutely stunning. The
Pictures are gorgeous. You both look so happy. Patrick takes fantastic pictures. I love his Talent. You two make a beautiful
Couple. God bless you and your wonderful
Future ahead. I love you both very much. Mom

Lisa miranda says: Friday, June 3, 2011

Mike and Jen you both look absolutely stunning. The
Pictures are gorgeous. You both look so happy. Patrick takes fantastic pictures. I love his Talent. You two make a beautiful
Couple. God bless you and your wonderful
Future ahead. I love you both very much. Mom

Lisa miranda says: Friday, June 3, 2011

Mike and Jen you both look absolutely stunning. The
Pictures are gorgeous. You both look so happy. Patrick takes fantastic pictures. I love his Talent. You two make a beautiful
Couple. God bless you and your wonderful
Future ahead. I love you both very much. Mom

susan mandilk says: Saturday, June 4, 2011

Very beautiful pictures!! Congratulations.!

Jeff Hoskins says: Sunday, June 5, 2011

A picture is only as good as what's in it. The scenery here is extraordinary, but what really makes the photos so special are that they contain two people hopelessly in love. Here's to starting your life together. Cheers!
-Jeff

Phil Miranda says: Sunday, June 5, 2011

So very proud of the both of you. Both of you look stunning.
Your wedding pictures are absolutely beautiful. Yosemite was a fabulous
Backdrop that complimented the outstanding work
Of your photographer. Wish you good health and happiness. Love you, Dad

Phil Miranda says: Sunday, June 5, 2011

So very proud of the both of you. Both of you look stunning.
Your wedding pictures are absolutely beautiful. Yosemite was a fabulous
Backdrop that complimented the outstanding work
Of your photographer. Wish you good health and happiness. Love you, Dad

Phil Miranda says: Sunday, June 5, 2011

So very proud of the both of you. Both of you look stunning.
Your wedding pictures are absolutely beautiful. Yosemite was a fabulous
Backdrop that complimented the outstanding work
Of your photographer. Wish you good health and happiness. Love you, Dad

Phil Miranda says: Sunday, June 5, 2011

So very proud of the both of you. Both of you look stunning.
Your wedding pictures are absolutely beautiful. Yosemite was a fabulous
Backdrop that complimented the outstanding work
Of your photographer. Wish you good health and happiness. Love you, Dad

Phil Miranda says: Sunday, June 5, 2011

So very happy and proud of both of you. You both
Look absolutely stunning. Yosemite backdrop enhanced the talent
Of your photographer. Much happiness and health. Love you, Dad

Jill says: Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Very Beautiful!

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