

As a Montana wedding photographer, I have the incredible privilege of capturing love stories in some of the most breathtaking locations in the country. (It honestly still feels like a dream that I LIVE here!) Jasmine and Jake’s summer wedding was one of those unforgettable days. Full of emotion, beauty, and a little bit of adventure!
Jasmine and Jake are high school sweethearts, so this day was SO sweet to witness! Jasmine has had a travel nurse contract in Montana and they both fell in love with the state and decided to elope while they were still here! They kept things low-key and intentional, focusing on what mattered most: being together in one of there favorite places. Jasmine’s mom flew in for the week, which made it extra special.
We started the day at their airbnb for some getting ready photos with Jasmine’s mom and dog. After the first look, we loaded up to head into Glacier National Park for their private ceremony at Rising Sun! We watched as some ominous weather looked like it was rolling in…thankfully, it blew past us and we had some beautiful cloud coverage for their ceremony! They exchanged private vows, then celebrated with some champagne and cake.
We explored a few more areas in the park before ended our time at Big Bend for golden hours, the most iconic spot in Glacier. The combination of the dramatic landscape, soft light, and their genuine connection made for such stunning images! Not to mention Jasmine’s EPIC two piece dress! It has got to be one of my favorite dresses I’ve ever seen! So unique and so her. That paired with her brightly colored bouquet from Mum’s just made for the most gorgeous photos!
That’s something I really love about being a Montana wedding photographer. Every couple brings their own energy and story, and the landscape gives us the perfect canvas to showcase it.
If you’re considering a wedding in Montana, you’re already on the right track. This state offers some of the most diverse and breathtaking scenery in the country! But a little local insight can go a long way when it comes to planning a smooth, stress-free day. Here are a few tips if you are considering Montana for your wedding day:
Choose the Right Season
Montana is beautiful year round, but the season you choose will shape your entire experience. Summer brings longer days, warmer temperatures, and access to high elevation locations, though it can also be busier in popular areas. Fall is quieter and incredibly scenic, with golden foliage and crisp air..perfect for couples who love cozy, romantic vibes! Spring and early summer are ideal if you’re dreaming of snow-capped mountains, while winter weddings offer a peaceful, snowy wonderland for those who don’t mind the cold. No matter the season, flexibility is key. Montana weather loves to keep things interesting!
Select a Meaningful Location
From the dramatic peaks of Glacier National Park to an intimate cabin tucked away near Bozeman, Montana has no shortage of incredible places to say your vows. When choosing your location, think beyond just how it looks in photos, consider what feels true to you as a couple. Do you love hiking and wide-open spaces? Or are you drawn to quiet, tucked-away spots that feel personal and secluded? Your wedding location should reflect your story and the way you want the day to feel!
Embrace the Adventure
Montana is made for couples who are looking for beautiful landscapes, paired with adventure. I always suggest making a full week of it if you can! Montana has so much to offer, from kayaking and scenic hikes to exploring charming mountain towns. It’s the perfect destination to turn your wedding into a full experience for your guests! Or to stay and honeymoon afterward.
Hire a Local Photographer
Working with a photographer who knows Montana well makes a huge difference. A local photographer understands the light, the seasons, and the logistics of shooting in remote or protected areas. They’ll know how to pivot when weather rolls in, where to find stunning backdrops that aren’t overcrowded, and how to help your day unfold naturally. More than anything, they’ll help you feel comfortable and present, so you can fully soak in the experience while trusting that your memories are being captured thoughtfully!

There’s something truly special about being a wedding photographer in Montana. The landscape of Montana is forever so inspiring to my work! The light, the wide open spaces, and the mountain views all play a part in how I shoot. Being surrounded by so much beauty makes it easy to stay creative and look at each wedding with fresh eyes.
But it’s not just the jaw-dropping views…though I’ll never stop being in awe of the way the light hits the valley at sunset, or how peaceful it feels standing among the mountains in Glacier National Park. It’s also about the people and the stories I get to be a part of!
Every couple who chooses to get married in Montana brings something unique to their day. Some are drawn to the adventure: the hiking trails, alpine lakes, and hidden gems tucked deep into the wilderness. Others are looking for a quiet, intimate place to celebrate with their closest loved ones. Whether it’s an all day adventure or a quiet ceremony in the woods, I’m there to capture the real, honest moments that matter most.
Being a Montana wedding photographer allows me to blend my passion for storytelling with the rugged beauty of the outdoors. I get to capture the in between moments: windblown hair during a mountain ceremony, the way a couple looks at each other when no one else is watching, or the quiet stillness that settles over a lakeside first look. It’s all truly a dream!
But more than anything, I love forming genuine connections with my couples. Getting to know who they are, what matters to them, and how they want their day to feel is such a privilege. It’s what allows me to photograph their day in a way that’s not just beautiful, but personal, emotional, and meaningful. Montana will always be a source of creative inspiration, and I’m endlessly grateful for every couple who trusts me to tell their story here.
If you’re dreaming of a Montana wedding and want someone to capture your story with care and intention, I’d love to connect (you can contact me here!). Whether you’re planning a mountaintop elopement or a full wedding weekend, being a Montana wedding photographer means I get to walk alongside you in one of the most meaningful seasons of your life—and that’s something I never take for granted! Learn a little more about me here, or check out more of my work on the blog here!
Vendors:
Florals: Mum’s
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.
dasdsa
dasdasdas
Please reach out to me when you have a moment.