Capturing Love in the Wilderness Rylan and Mike's Elopement | Hetch Hetchy Dam Wedding Photography
- jacoberbes4
- May 22
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 24
Planning a wedding is often an exhilarating experience filled with excitement, choices, and sometimes unexpected twists. This was true for Rylan and Mike, whose journey led them on a truly memorable adventure of love—one that I had the honor of capturing through my lens. Their story is a perfect example of how simplicity can deliver profound beauty in life's most significant moments.
A Change of Plans
When Rylan and Mike first reached out, their vision was clear: an elopement wedding at Newport Beach. They spent two months planning each detail, anticipating dreamy sunsets, gentle waves, and a cozy atmosphere shared with just a select few family members. However, just three weeks before the wedding, they hit an unexpected snag. They discovered that obtaining a marriage license in Southern California would take longer than anticipated, leaving them feeling a bit anxious.
Instead of giving up, Rylan and Mike adapted their plans and chose to wed in the stunning Hetch Hetchy Wilderness of Northern California. They were energized by the prospect of saying their vows among nature's beauty. They processed their marriage paperwork in Mariposa County, trading ocean vistas for majestic trees and peaceful landscapes. “We have both done the big white wedding before; this time, we just want to get married,” they explained, showing their commitment to simplicity and authenticity.
The Perfect Setting
The wedding unfolded on the patio of a charming cottage located just a short distance from the Hetch Hetchy Dam. This serene spot offered breathtaking views, surrounded by towering pines and rugged terrain. It was the ideal backdrop for a ceremony that reflected their love and connection to nature.
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Rylan's vision for her dress was not only creative but aligned with her values. She found her wedding dress at a thrift shop, embodying her unique sense of style while promoting sustainability. Mike embraced the rugged charm of the outdoors with his Scarpa boots, showing that comfort can complement personal expression. Their intimate gathering consisted of close friends and family, making the ceremony brief yet meaningful and filled with love.
Capturing the Love
After traveling more than seven hours to witness their union, I realized this was more than just a job. I was about to capture the essence of their love—a connection that was genuine and palpable in the crisp mountain air. The wedding ceremony itself lasted about five minutes. Those fleeting moments, however, dripped with pure emotion.
Once the vows were exchanged, we celebrated with laughter and delicious Mexican cuisine in Mariposa, embracing the joy of simply being together as friends and family.
This was where the real creative fun began for me as a photographer. Encouraged by Rylan, I felt free to explore the beauty of Hetch Hetchy and document the couple against this exquisite landscape. I aimed to highlight the scale of their love in relation to the natural beauty surrounding them, which perfectly echoed how immense love can make us feel amidst the vastness of the world.
I experimented with flash photography to create vibrant contrasts that stood out against the natural light, capturing the joy they shared. It was important to me that each shot reflected not just their relationship but the happiness radiating from them.
The Joy of Elopements
Over time, elopements have captured my heart. There is something incredibly special about couples choosing to focus solely on their love, free from the distractions of guest lists and grand expectations. Each elopement I have photographed radiated a unique energy—one that shines not only in the photos but also lingers in each couple's story.
The statistics speak for themselves: according to a recent survey, elopements have increased by nearly 25% in the past few years. Couples are increasingly choosing to simplify their ceremonies, prioritizing love and connection over traditional norms.
As my camera clicked away and the day drew to a close, it felt more like a sweet new beginning rather than an end. Rylan and Mike might have simplified their wedding plans, but their love story is anything but ordinary. They embraced spontaneity and connection, which made their elopement deeply meaningful.
Reflecting on this Unique Experience
Capturing Rylan and Mike's elopement in the Hetch Hetchy Wilderness brought my creative talents to the forefront while underscoring my passion for documenting love in its most genuine form. Their journey showcased that elopements can be simple yet profoundly deep.
Whether you are considering an elopement or simply enjoy heartwarming stories of love, I encourage you to celebrate your tale in a way that feels true to you. Each couple's journey is unique, and embracing that authenticity is what truly matters.
If you’re planning an elopement or want to celebrate your love in the wilderness, I would love to be your photographer. The mountains, much like love, hold endless adventures—let's capture yours together!
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