Yosemite Family Photos
When the Bakers reached out to schedule their session, they had the most beautiful idea: to document their yearly family vacation with Yosemite family photos. As a photographer, there’s something incredibly special about capturing families while they’re already in vacation mode—relaxed, present, and soaking up time together in one of the most breathtaking places in California.
Choosing to book a photo session while you’re on vacation is such a smart idea. You’re already making memories, you’re away from the usual routines, and you’re often more rested and connected. It takes so much of the pressure off, especially for families with kids. There’s no need to race through the week to squeeze in a session between soccer practice and dinner. Instead, you get to show up, enjoy the gorgeous surroundings, and let someone else do the work of preserving your joy and connection.
A Perfect Afternoon
We scheduled the Bakers’ session for early summer, when Yosemite Valley is lush and vibrant. The sun stays up longer, the meadows are green and full of wild grasses, and the waterfalls are still flowing strong from the snowmelt. The weather could not have been more perfect. Warm but not hot, with just enough of a breeze to keep things comfortable. Yosemite in June is truly magical.
That said, Yosemite does get very busy in the summer. As of the writing of this post, Yosemite National Park requires a peak-hours reservation for entry between 5 a.m. and 4 p.m. on most days from late spring through early fall. These rules typically change each summer, so it’s always a good idea to check the National Park Service website before planning your visit. To avoid the crowds, the Bakers wisely scheduled their session on a weekday evening, which gave us more flexibility and a quieter experience.
We started at El Capitan Meadow, one of my favorite spots for Yosemite family photos. It’s a wide-open stretch of grass that gives kids space to run and play without feeling restricted. It also offers a jaw-dropping view of El Capitan and the iconic waterfall spilling down from the cliffs behind. From there, we wrapped up the evening at Tunnel View, where you can see the entire Valley spread out below you. Half Dome, Bridalveil Fall, and El Capitan all in one frame. It’s the perfect way to end a session and take in the full majesty of Yosemite.
Outfit Planning
The Bakers chose outfits that complemented both the natural setting and their personalities. I always encourage clients to think about texture, movement, and colors that work with the tones of Yosemite’s landscape, and they nailed it.
Mom wore a white floral midi dress with soft puff sleeves that felt timeless and elegant. It moved beautifully in the breeze and subtly accented the grass in the meadow. Dad chose a cream short-sleeved button-down with soft blue pants that tied into the cooler tones of the granite cliffs. Their daughter wore a sage green dress with billowy sleeves that added softness and charm, while their son wore a light blue patterned button-up with khaki pants and hiking boots. Both polished and practical for adventuring around the park.
Together, their color palette of whites, greens, blues, and soft earth tones worked perfectly against the backdrops of granite, forest, and sky. These tones are what I always suggest for Yosemite. They don’t compete with the scenery but rather enhance it, making the family the focal point while honoring the landscape around them.
My Approach to Yosemite Family Photography
Yosemite is one of those places that instantly grounds you. It’s impossible to stand in a quiet meadow with granite walls towering around you and not feel awe. That’s part of what makes it so special for family sessions. It puts everything in perspective. You can slow down, breathe deeper, and just be with your people.
As a photographer, I lean into this natural rhythm. My style is warm, intentional, and emotion-driven, with a film-inspired look that emphasizes softness, connection, and light. I don’t want your photos to feel posed or stiff. I want them to feel like you. That means gently guiding you into natural movement and giving space for authentic moments to unfold. It’s in the way a mom tucks her son’s hair behind his ear, or the way a daughter leans into her dad for an unexpected giggle. Those are the moments that last.
I also make space for a mix of portraits and candids. Some smiling at the camera, some looking out at the view, and plenty of snuggles and laughter in between. Especially when photographing Yosemite family photos, I believe your images should feel like a memory. Soft, joyful, and true to the day.
Client Words That Mean the World
After our time together in Yosemite, the Bakers shared the kindest words about their experience. I always aim to create sessions that feel easy, genuine, and personal, so reading this truly meant so much:
“We recently had the pleasure of working with Ashley for our family portraits, and I honestly can’t say enough good things about the experience. From the moment we reached out, she was warm, responsive, and incredibly thoughtful about planning a session that felt personal and relaxed for our whole family.
During the shoot, Ashley created such a calm and joyful atmosphere that made us all feel completely at ease. She somehow managed to capture all the little moments—glances, laughs, and connections—that truly reflect who we are as a family.
One photo in particular took my breath away—it was a candid shot of all of us laughing together, and it feels like it perfectly froze a moment of genuine love and connection in time. I know we’ll treasure it forever.
If you’re even thinking about booking a session with Ashley, do it. You’ll get more than just beautiful photos—you’ll get an experience that feels meaningful, effortless, and tailored to your family.”
To the Bakers, thank you for trusting me with your family memories. You were kind, patient, and full of joy from start to finish. Your kids were so sweet with each other, and it was beautiful to watch you all enjoy this trip together. I hope these photos take you right back to that peaceful meadow and the moments you shared. I’m so honored to be a part of your family’s story this year.
Book Your Own Yosemite Family Photos
If you’re planning a trip to Yosemite with your family this summer, or even just dreaming about it, this is your sign to book the photo session. It’s one of the best ways to hold onto the magic of your trip, and I’d love to help you do just that.
Whether you’re staying in the Valley or visiting from a nearby city like Fresno, planning a session while you’re already in Yosemite takes the stress out of family photos. You don’t need to scout a location or worry about how the light will work. I’ve photographed dozens of families here and will guide you every step of the way.
You can see more of my Yosemite family photos and browse other recent family sessions to get a sense of what your own shoot could look like. When you’re ready to start planning, just reach out. I’ll help you choose the best time, location, and outfit ideas to make your session seamless and beautiful.
Yosemite Valley Fall Engagement Photos
Fresno Family Photos at Foliage Flower Farm
Let’s capture your family in the wild beauty of Yosemite. You’ll be so glad you did.
Contact me to get your photo session booked today. Submit an inquiry form, and I’ll take care of the rest.
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June 3, 2025
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