Yosemite Engagement Photos
Best Locations in Yosemite National Park for Engagement Photos
Glacier Point: Half Dome views with easy access. Best at sunrise or right after sunset.
Taft Point: views of El Capitan from above the valley floor. Requires a short hike through a forest to get to the viewpoint. Planning to take photos along the trail in addition to photos out on the cliffs is a great way to get variety in your photos. Best at sunset.
Tunnel View: iconic viewpoint of the Valley’s most notable rock formations and waterfalls. Accessible all year. Best at sunrise or mid-day.
El Capitan Meadow: large grassy meadow under El Capitan. Best in the evenings closer to sunset.
Yosemite Valley boardwalks and paved trails: once you get into the part of the Valley where you can see Yosemite Falls, there are a few different spots to park and walk around to capture photos with the falls in the background. You can also access the river and a few meadows by following the paths. Great at any time of day.
Cathedral Beach: beach location with river access and view of El Capitan. Best in the evenings a few hours before sunset.
Tips for Planning a Yosemite Engagement Session
Choose a weekday or plan to go in the off season to avoid crowds. Summers can be very busy and usually mean long lines at the entrance, more traffic throughout the park, and difficulty finding parking.
Fall and late Spring are my favorite times of year as the crowds are fewer and weather is pretty mild. These are also the best times to visit if you’re interested in visiting Glacier or Taft Point as the road to access these viewpoints is closed during the winter. You can check the road status here.
For best lighting, plan your session at sunrise or an hour or two before sunset. On weekends or summer dates, I strongly recommend sunrise only.
Check whether entry reservations are required during the time of your visit. These aren’t required if you’re staying inside the park at one of the lodgings available in Yosemite Valley or a rental in Yosemite West.
Always follow leave no trace principles during your visit. Respect posted signs restricting access, stay on trails, and be respectful of other visitors.
Opt for outfits in neutral colors that will complement the natural, earthy tones of the environment.
Book a photographer who is familiar with the park to help you have the best possible experience. If you’re working with me, I will share even more specific locations for the best photos, and offer personalized tips based on your vision for your session and my years of experience photographing couples in Yosemite.
View recent Yosemite National Park engagement session examples below.
CALLIE & RYAN
MOLLY & DYLAN
LAUREN & MATT
