Being a Glacier National Park elopement photographer means I get to document some of the most meaningful days in one of the most beautiful places in the country. I get to combine two things I love—photographing real love stories and exploring beautiful places! I truly feel lucky every time I head into the park with a couple.
One of those stories was Taya and Keenan’s wedding, and the way it came together was a bit unexpected. They had originally planned to bring their photographer from Pennsylvania, Brittany Lee Photography. But just two weeks before their wedding day, Britt wasn’t able to travel due to her high-risk pregnancy. She found me on Instagram and reached out to see if I might be available to step in, and somehow, my calendar was open!
I’m so glad it worked out. Not only was I happy to help Britt out, but I got to be part of such a special day with two genuinely kind and easygoing people!
Taya and Keenan flew in from Pennsylvania with their immediate families. They were staying at an Airbnb in Bigfork, so that’s where we started the day! I met them there for some relaxed getting ready photos before we made our way into Glacier National Park.
Their ceremony was held at Sprague Creek Campground on Lake McDonald, which is one of my favorite locations in the park! It so easy to access and it is close to the mountains, which makes the mountains appear larger in photos. It was a beautiful Montana summer day—sunny, clear, and suuuuper windy. The wind was strong enough that we could barely hear each other during the ceremony, and there were actual waves on the lake! But it was still so beyond beautiful and spirits were high.
After the ceremony, the group celebrated with some mini boxed charcuterie boxes (with a picture of Taya and Keenan’s dog on them!) and some time to just hang out and enjoy each other’s company. It was casual, simple, and just sos sweet and intentional—exactly what an elopement should feel like!
Once family time wrapped up, the three of us drove up Going-to-the-Sun Road to take some portraits. We stopped at a few different spots along the way, ending at Big Bend, which is always a popular spot for photos! We even found some stunning yellow flowers on the side of the road and I am obsessed with how those photos turned out! We even ended the evening taking some fun photos in front of my car’s headlights, which was so different and creative for me!
I cannot express how magical this day was and how much I love these two! It felt serendipitous that I was able to step in and be a part of this beautiful wedding. I truly felt so welcomed, connected and loved by these two and their families and I’m so thankful that I got to capture their day!
Being a Glacier National Park elopement photographer gives me the chance to meet amazing couples like these two and help them document a once-in-a-lifetime day in a truly unforgettable place.
Glacier National Park isn’t your average wedding location. It’s remote, wild, and absolutely breathtaking—but it also comes with unique challenges that not every photographer is knowledgeable about. That’s why hiring a Glacier National Park elopement photographer who knows the area well can make a huge difference in your overall experience!
Here’s what I bring to the table as someone who specializes in Glacier elopements:
1. Location Expertise
Choosing where to elope in Glacier can be overwhelming. I help couples narrow down the best ceremony and photo locations based on lighting, accessibility, privacy, and views!
2. Understanding Permits + Park Rules
Getting married in Glacier National Park requires a special use permit, and there are specific rules around group sizes, ceremony spots, and even where you can park. I walk my couples through the entire permit process and stay up to date on the park’s guidelines, so you don’t have to stress about the logistics.
3. Timing & Lighting Know-How
The park’s lighting changes drastically throughout the day depending on location and season. I help couples plan the best timeline for photos—whether that’s catching sunrise over the mountains or golden hour along Going-to-the-Sun Road. I know when the crowds are lowest, what areas get harsh light, and how to pivot if the weather throws us a curveball (which it often does!).
4. Prepared for the Elements
Glacier can be unpredictable. One minute it’s sunny and warm; the next, it’s raining or snowing. As an experienced Glacier National Park elopement photographer, I come prepared for all types of weather and know how to keep sessions fun, relaxed, and safe, no matter what the day brings. I’ll also have a plan B (and C) in my back pocket for any curveball that the park throws at us!
5. Local Vendor Connections
Need a florist, officiant, or hair and makeup artist who can meet you in the middle of nowhere? I’ve got trusted local connections and can help you build a dream team that’s reliable and familiar with Glacier’s remote nature.
6. Stress-Free Experience
Ultimately, hiring a photographer who truly knows Glacier means you get to focus on what matters most—your relationship and the experience of getting married in an epic place. I’m here to guide you, support you, and help make the process feel simple and enjoyable from start to finish!
If you’re looking for a photographer for your Glacier National Park elopement, I would love to chat with you here! You can also learn a little more about me here and the experience you can expect from booking me here! 🙂 For now, enjoy Taya and Keenan’s intimate wedding day in Glacier National Park that I associate shot for Brittany Lee Photography!
Glacier National Park // Kalispell // Whitefish // Flathead Valley
Sarah Joy Photo is a Montana based wedding, elopement and family photographer. Serving Glacier National Park and the surrounding area, but available for travel worldwide. Specializing in nostalgic imagery on digital + film, with a heart for telling your story in an honest and organic way.