FOR THE COUPLES WHO'D RATHER MAKE MEMORIES THAN FOLLOW TRADITION

Intentional moments, epic views, and a day that actually feel like you.

California Wedding Photographer

Serving Yosemite, Sequoia, & the Wildest Landscapes

Not everyone dreams of a traditional wedding and that’s okay…

I get it. I felt that too.
You crave a day that’s real, free, and fully yours- built around love, not rules.

hey i’m ariel

I believe your wedding day should be full of everything that matters most- not built around a venue that fits your guest list, or a timeline that fits someone else’s expectations.
You deserve a day that’s true to you, in a place that feels meaningful, surrounded by what you love most, the great outdoors.


Being an adventure photographer is just part of the story. With me you get:

✔️ LOCAL EXPERT – You know the saying a local knows best. I’ve spent years out here, exploring, photographing, and learning the rhythm of this place.

✔️ HONEST and TRUE TO YOU MOMENTS – Capturing the true emotions and natural connections in epic landscapes

✔️ YOUR ALL-IN-ONE EXPERT – From locations, timelines, best hiking trails, places to stay, with me you get the inside scoop on Sequoia and Yosemite!

✔️ NEW ADVENTURE BESTIE - Crafting a day that’s as unique as your love. Our friendship doesn’t end after your big day, I’m always ready to adventure with clients turned forever adventure buddies!

This is your moment, your adventure- built around what matters most to you

“You’re an angel 🥹🥹♥️♥️ literally crying looking at them all Thank you so so much!!! The black and white look like their straight out of an anthro catalog 🥲”

Jon and tiffany

You deserve a day that feels like home, adventure, and everything in between.

I don’t just take photos, i craft experiences.

Of course, you’ll get breathtaking photos, but I’m here to give you more than that.

Together, we’ll plan a day that’s uniquely yours, full of everything that matters most.

I’m here to take the stress out of your planning, handling logistics and all the details so you can focus on enjoying every moment. From start to finish, I’ll make sure everything flows smoothly, leaving you free to be fully present and immersed in your special day.

I am here to help you have the ultimate experience!

  • knowledgeable and experienced

  • more than just photos, but an experience

  • feels like catching up with an old friend while also getting amazing photographs

Your day, your way – it's all about your unique love and adventure!

“I cannot recommend Ariel Vega enough! Her talent for capturing candid moments in the most breathtaking landscapes is truly unmatched. She has a unique way of making you feel comfortable in front of the camera, ensuring that every shot feels natural and genuine. From guiding us through the planning process to delivering the final edited photos, Ariel Vega was professional, communicative, and a joy to work with. Our elopement photos turned out better than we could have ever imagined, and we are so grateful to have these memories to cherish forever. If you're looking for a photographer who can perfectly capture your adventurous love story, look no further!”

Denae and Miguel

If you’ve made it this far it’s because this sounds just like what you’re looking for!

Booking is easy, I’ve made it super simple for ya!

The Experience:

The Experience:

What It’s Like to Work With an expert

  • First is picking a package that allows you to have the day of your dreams! If you don’t know which package works best, you can share your vision with me and I will assist you on the coverage needed. After that I’ll send over a contract and invoice. After both are complete, you’re officially booked!

    This is where the real magic ! I will send over a questionnaire to get a clearer vision of your day.

    We’ll start with a video chat where I’ll help you craft the perfect day. I’ll guide you through location options, best seasons, and unique experiences that match your vision!

    Whether that’s a sunrise hike, a picnic by a lake, or a cozy cabin celebration. You dream it and I’ll help make it happen.

  • I’ll handle the logistics and create a unique, customized timeline so you can focus on what matters…each other. Instead of being stressed and doing it all on your own. I’ll send the google pins and you bring all the love! Deal?

  • We’ll adventure, we’ll laugh, we’ll cry, but most importantly you’ll have the day that you dreamed of.

    Your day will be uniquely, yours.

  • Depending on the package you booked, I will send over sneak peak photos! No need to anxiously wait WEEKs for a preview, I got you!

    Within 4-6, you’ll receive a stunning, emotion-packed gallery that transports you right back to your day. Tangible moments that you get to keep, forever.

From “What If?” “to Let’s Do This”

Your day, your way – They say it best because it was their day.

“You were amazing to work with. Your responses were timely and thorough, it was so easy to plan with you. And given the last minute weather changes the night before, you quickly responded with backup plans to ease my nervousness and stress. I cannot thank you enough for everything, from planning, to execution, and of course, the pictures themselves.”

Tejas + Mathangi

Sequoia elopement bouquet, wedding dress, and hiking boots at Moro Rock, captured by a Sequoia National Park elopement photographer.
Couple standing under giant sequoia trees during their adventure elopement in Sequoia National Park

More love. Because I want to provide you with more than just amazing photos, but the ulitmate experience. <3

best places to stay in yosemite national park YOSEMITE VALLEY lodge

what are you waiting for?

Let’s get your adventure started!