Couple embracing cheek to cheek in a golden field of tall grass at sunset, warm and intimate engagement session

 

Movement, emotion, memory

 

destination weddings, from california to colorado, mexico to italy to portugal to spain and beyond

Forget stiff poses—this is about movement, emotion, and memory.


A wedding isn’t a timeline.

It’s your best friends hyping you up before the aisle.

It’s the way your hands find each other without thinking.

It’s that first deep breath as newlyweds.


That’s what I’m here to capture.

My job? To make sure you remember it all.


✔ Cinematic, yet intimate

✔ Guided direction, only when it matters

✔ Editing with feeling—artful, intentional, and timeless.


My style is warm and emotionally rich, designed to elevate your story while staying timeless for decades to come. The majority of your wedding will be shot documentary-style, stepping in only when guidance helps things feel less awkward. The result? Photos that are timeless, emotional and never forced.

Couple silhouetted embracing in a sunlit doorway at the end of a hallway, intimate backlit elopement portrait
Black-and-white photo of newlyweds recessing down the aisle as the bride raises her bouquet, joyful wedding celebration

 

a love note from newlyweds jillian & donovan


"She made us feel completely comfortable and gave natural, creative direction that made posing feel easy."

 

Black-and-white photo of a couple on a lakeside deck with mountains across the water, elegant alpine lake wedding portrait
Candlelit wedding reception table detail with calla lilies and pillar candles on white linen, elegant decor close-up

what we create together


the love stories i tell
Wedding guests dressed in white playing lawn games with parasols at a festive garden reception, candid celebration

 

01 — WEDDING WEEKEND

from $11,000 · destination available worldwide

 

The more time I spend with your people, the more comfortable everyone becomes. And the more comfortable everyone becomes, the better the story we tell together. What emerges isn't a highlight reel. It's a world.


Reserved for a limited number of couples each year. If you're building something that asks for more than a single day, I want to hear about it.


Every weekend is composed from the ground up, so this isn't a list of inclusions. It's a sense of what becomes possible:


  • Two to three days of unhurried coverage, with at least two photographers
  • Timeline, planning, and styling consultation woven through the months before
  • A custom lay flat album, made to be handed down
  • Travel arranged for wherever in the world you feel called to marry


Everything else, we design together.

Bride and groom in a dramatic dip kiss surrounded by white florals and cheering guests at an autumn wedding ceremony

02 — WEDDINGS

from $7,000 · destination available worldwide
Your wedding day is a bold act of devotion.
It deserves to be documented that way.


My wedding collections are built around cinematic coverage, emotional honesty, and an architectural eye trained to find what others miss.


Every collection is composed from the ground up, so this isn't a list of inclusions. It's a sense of what becomes possible:


  • Six to ten hours of coverage, with a second photographer when the story calls for it
  • Timeline, planning, and styling consultation in the months before
  • The option to grow the collection with an engagement session, welcome coverage, a custom lay flat album, and travel to wherever in the world you feel called to marry


Groom and bride with billowing gown walking toward red rock buttes under a dramatic sky, adventurous desert elopement

03 — ADVENTURE SESSIONS & ELOPEMENTS

from $2,800
say your vows somewhere that shaped you. where you first fell in love with nature, perhaps with yourself, and probably each other.


I've been chasing moments like this my entire life. Across deserts, alpine meadows, coastlines, and summits with no one else on them. It's where I feel most myself, and where I do my best work.


Every session is composed from the ground up and built around your story, so this isn't a list of inclusions. It's a sense of what becomes possible:


  • Three or more hours of photography, with location scouting before the day
  • In depth planning, styling, and storytelling consultation
  • A gallery of high resolution images with download and print rights, and the option to add travel to wherever in the world calls you


The backcountry is my second home. Let's make art in it.

Black-and-white photo of a couple embracing viewed through a circular architectural frame, artistic wedding portrait

04 — INTIMATE CEREMONIES

from $2,500
Not a smaller wedding.
A more intentional one.


For the couple who wants to get married without the production. Under fifteen people, the ones who matter most, in a place that means something.


  • Beginning at 3hrs of photography
  • Personalized photography consultation regarding experience, timing, lighting, aesthetic and goals
  • Timeline consultation to ensure photography experience is optimal
  • Gallery of high resolution images with download and print rights
Couple sitting together by a tall sunlit window in a rustic room, warm and intimate wedding portrait

My role is simple —

to protect the experience.


Not stage it.

Not interrupt it.

Protect it.


I bring calm structure when the day picks up pace,

gentle guidance when it’s helpful,

and space when moments need to breathe.


Because the best weddings don’t feel like productions.


They feel like the best dinner party of your life —

glasses clinking, music thumping, your favorite aunt’s laugh carrying from across the room.


Then suddenly the dance floor fills.

Your grandmother is dancing with your college roommate.

Everyone you love is in the same place.


And the night takes on a life of its own.


This is the space I protect.


So you can exist fully inside it —

and the photographs become the visceral memory you’ll return to.

 

 

Testimonials
Bride and groom exchanging vows at a triangular wildflower arch beside an alpine lake, sunlit mountain wedding ceremony

"Sammy consistently made our guests feel comfortable, kept us on schedule, and selected the best locations from all around our venue for photos."

dori & drew

Bride in a flower crown framed in an old paned window holding her bouquet, romantic rustic wedding portrait

"My partner and I, our families, and our bridal party really appreciated her warmth, positive energy, and flexibility throughout the process. It makes a big difference when it comes to wrangling people for photos and capturing special moments. She was calm and easy to work with and genuinely fun to be around."

sam & stephanie

Couple sharing a soft moment behind the bride's veil by the coast, romantic elopement photography

"I'm still bawling. Sammy blended in with our guests so naturally, stayed late to capture our crazy family's raging dance party, and somehow made it all feel completely effortless."

ciara & connor

 

What working together really feels like


What working together really feels like

 

STEP 01

 

Connect

Tell me what you’re dreaming of—whether you’re throwing a three-day festival in the desert, planning an intimate, candlelit celebration on the California cliffs, or heading off to the Almalfi Coast for

an aperol spritz and a better view.

I’ll be in touch within 48 hours with everything you need to bring it to life.


STEP 02

 

Commit

Once you inquire, I’ll send over the details and a link to schedule our call. If you’re local, we can meet in person.


This is where we discuss your vision and what matters most. Building a genuine connection is the heart of how I photograph.


If it feels aligned, a signed contract and retainer secure your date. From there, I’ll send a welcome guide and begin shaping your experience..

STEP 03

 

Curate

We collaborate on everything from flow to feeling—offering guidance, creative input, and support along the way.


From location scouting to wardrobe direction, every detail is considered with intention.


I’m here for the big picture and the small details, so everything feels effortless and true to you.

STEP 04

 

Create

You show up, fully present. I’ll be there—calm, grounded, and tuned into it all (and yes, having fun too).


When things shift, I adjust seamlessly, so you never have to think about it.


The day flows, and the images feel exactly like a cinematic masterpiece can't look away from.

STEP 05

Unveil

You’ll receive a preview within the first week, .your full gallery follows within 12, carefully edited and curated as a cohesive story.


I never rush this part. I sit with your story. I return to it again and again—editing, refining, and pouring my heart into every frame.


These are the images you’ll print, hold, and revisit for decades.
I treat them like the art they are.


Albums, prints, and custom pieces are available so your images live beyond the screen.


Always hand-crafted with the finest quality.


love notes
Black-and-white photo of a couple walking a fog-shrouded shoreline in the distance, moody and cinematic coastal elopement

"Our family kept saying, 'Whatever you paid that photographer was worth it.' She was sweet, easy to work with, and made us feel completely comfortable. We are so glad she convinced us to go down to the beach when the fog rolled in."

Aly & Chris

Groom in a blue suit carrying his laughing bride beside a green pond, romantic Spring Ranch Mendocino wedding

"An unexpected bonus of working with Sammy was her people and event management skills. She expertly kept us on schedule and ensured we had the right people in the right shots.

She came prepared by scouting locations for our first look, family photos, and golden hour, which is evident in our wedding gallery."

Lara & Grant

Black-and-white photo of a groom lifting his bride beneath grand stone arches, romantic City Hall elopement embrace

"She knew all the best, secret angles at SF City Hall to get the most gorgeous shots.

She gave us excellent direction so our photos look natural, romantic, and cinematic all at once."

maddie & nick

FAQ

How far in advance should we book you?

I currently book weddings up to 18 months out, but lately I’ve noticed more couples reaching out closer to their date—so there’s no one-size-fits-all! That said, if you’re vibing with my work, don’t wait. Locking in your vendors early helps ease so much stress leading up to your day. I love being part of the journey and am here to support you through it all—photography-related or otherwise.

How many photos will we receive?

I never cap or promise an exact number—my goal is always to deliver every photo that’s beautiful, meaningful, and tells your story. For reference, a 6-hour wedding typically results in around 500 edited images. If you’ve booked two photographers or extended coverage, expect closer to 1,000. More time, more moments, and more cameras (sometimes even 4–5 shooting throughout the day) means more magic to deliver. If it’s a great shot, it’s yours.

When will we receive our gallery?

You’ll receive a sneak peek within one week (oftentimes 24hrs)—just enough to start reliving the magic and sharing those first joyful moments. The full gallery will be delivered within 12 weeks.

I take my time with wedding galleries because I believe these photos deserve it! You’ll look at them for the rest of your life after all.

Every image is carefully edited, revisited, and refined—never rushed. I don’t outsource my edits; I personally go through each photo again and again to make sure what you get back is full of feeling, intention, and the essence of your day.

Do you offer videography?

While I don't offer traditional videography coverage, my team does offer content creation packages — a curated alternative for couples who want beautiful moving imagery without the commitment of full film coverage.

For couples seeking a dedicated videographer, I work closely with a trusted network of highly skilled creatives. All of my wedding clients receive access to my curated vendor list — featuring just a handful of my absolute favorites in each category. These are professionals I've worked alongside, trust deeply, and know will deliver an exceptional experience. I include tailored notes to help you find the perfect fit for your vibe, your priorities, and your day.

Whether you're interested in content creation through my team or a referral to someone extraordinary, I'm here to help you build something seamless and truly special.

Do you help with planning and timelines?

Absolutely—this is where I shine. Helping couples build a thoughtful, intentional timeline is one of the most important parts of what I do. I’ll ask the right questions and offer insight from years of experience so you can make informed decisions that truly elevate your day.

For example, something like extended family photos might mean missing cocktail hour—but I’ll help you weigh those choices based on what matters to you most. There are countless small decisions that can shape your experience, and I’m here to make sure nothing gets overlooked.

Whether it’s just us or you're working with a planner or day-of coordinator, I’ll collaborate closely to ensure everything flows seamlessly. The goal? A stress-free day, stunning photos, and memories that feel just as good as they look.

Can we customize a package or add extra hours?

Of course. Every wedding is different, and your photography coverage should reflect that. I’m always happy to tailor a package to better suit your plans—whether that means adding extra hours, scheduling multi-day coverage, or mixing in engagement sessions or welcome parties.

Just let me know what you’re dreaming up, and we’ll make it work. I’m here to support your vision, not box you into a preset. Let’s build something that fits your day just right.



Do you travel for weddings and elopements?

1000%. I split my time between Colorado and Northern California, with regular work in Aspen, Moab, Lake Tahoe, Mendocino Coast, and San Francisco, but I'm always down to adventure. Whether that’s deep in the forest, on a mountaintop, or across the country (or out of it). Travel costs are always transparent and clearly outlined in your proposal, so there are never any surprises.


Let’s talk about your dream location and bring it to life.

Do you offer albums or prints?

Yes—and they’re stunning. You’ll be able to order prints, cards, and albums directly from your gallery, or work with me to design a completely custom heirloom album that’ll make you cry (in the best way).

Every print lab I use is hand-picked for exceptional quality. These are made to last. Ask me about my bespoke albums—you choose the materials, and we’ll design it together, page by page. It’s one of my favorite things to create with you.

With top-tier packages, you’ll even receive exclusive print discounts. I truly hope you take these images out of the computer and into your hands—there’s nothing like it.

Do you help direct / pose us?

This is my bread and butter. Born from years of being embarrassingly awkward and uncomfortable in front of the camera, I’ve mastered what I call active posing or prompting.

I approach each session the way a film director would, thoughtfully considering light, composition, and movement. Then I place you and your partner into natural, intentional moments where your connection can actually breathe.

The result? Photos that feel honest and alive, while still looking effortlessly magazine-worthy. Oh... and are fun to take also.

Do you offer engagement sessions?

Yes — and they’re a core part of how I work.

Engagement sessions allow me to truly understand you before your wedding day. Your story, your chemistry, the way you move together — all of it informs how I photograph you. This isn’t about practicing poses. It’s about building trust and creating space for real connection.

When your wedding day arrives, you’re not being directed by a stranger. You’re being photographed by someone who already knows you — which is why the images feel natural, emotional, and undeniably refined.

How Does Payment Work?

Your signature and 30% retainer officially reserve your date in my calendar. The balance is due one month before your wedding date.

If you need a special payment structure, let me know and I would love to get creative with you.

How much is your travel fee?

Travel generally ranges from $1,000-$1,5000 within the US. For international destinations if may be more depending on the location.

I am willing to work with you to make your dreams come true. For international destinations, if you are able to provide travel accommodations onsite, it would be helpful if you are able to cover my airfare only.

Couple as dreamy motion-blurred figures on a beach at sunset by coastal sea stacks, Harbor House Mendocino wedding

For the wild at heart, the deeply present, and the effortlessly real.

Let's create something unforgettable.