Glacier Point Yosemite National Park Sunrise Adventurous Couple Session
There’s something undeniably magnificent about a sunrise in Yosemite National Park. The way the first light spills over the peaks, casting a golden glow over the vast landscape, makes the early wake-up call entirely worth it. This session with Morgan and CJ was the perfect way to close out my trip to Yosemite, and looking back, I’m beyond grateful for the random turn of events that led us to this moment.
The Serendipitous Beginning
A couple of days before this session, my friends and I were out scouting locations, taking in the beauty of Yosemite and searching for the perfect spots to shoot. We had made our way to Taft Point for sunset—a breathtaking location with dramatic cliffside views and a sweeping perspective of the valley below. As we were wrapping up for the evening, we ran into a group of photographers who were also in Yosemite, creating content for various brands.
We struck up a conversation, sharing stories and favorite photography spots, and as we hiked back together after sunset, they casually mentioned that Glacier Point at sunrise was an absolute must-see. Now, I’m not a morning person by any stretch, but I’ll gladly trade sleep for an opportunity to capture something truly special.
The real challenge, however, was convincing my friends that waking up in the middle of the night—after an already exhausting day—was actually a good idea. To my surprise (and delight), everyone was on board. So, the next morning, we dragged ourselves out of bed long before dawn, packed up our gear, and made the drive up to Glacier Point.
And let me tell you—it did not disappoint.
The Shift to Sunrise
Watching the sun slowly peek over Half Dome, illuminating the valley below, was nothing short of breathtaking. The moment the first light hit the rock face, I knew immediately that we had to move Morgan and CJ’s session from sunset to sunrise. The way the light played across the landscape was unlike anything I had ever seen, and I knew it would create an ethereal backdrop for their shoot.
As fate would have it, we ran into the same photographers from Taft Point again. They had come back for a second morning in a row just to experience it once more—further proof that this was something truly special.
Morgan and CJ, being photographers themselves, understood the power of light and were completely on board with the change of plans. They were willing to sacrifice a little sleep and brave the crisp morning air for the chance to shoot in this incredible location. And honestly? It was so worth it.
A Morning to Remember
We arrived at Glacier Point while the sky was still painted in deep blues and purples, with just the faintest hint of warmth creeping in at the horizon. The air was cool, almost still, and the park was beautifully quiet—no crowds, no distractions, just us and the stunning expanse of Yosemite in front of us.
As the sun finally broke over the horizon, bathing everything in soft, golden light, we started shooting. Morgan and CJ effortlessly fell into each other’s arms, their connection so natural and genuine. There’s something about the stillness of a morning like this that allows couples to fully immerse themselves in the moment. No rush, no distractions—just pure, unfiltered love.
The way the light shifted minute by minute made every shot feel fresh and unique. We captured moments where the sun flared perfectly behind them, their silhouettes standing out against the iconic backdrop of Half Dome. Other times, the soft glow illuminated their faces just right, highlighting every joyful expression, every tender glance.
The best part? It felt completely effortless.
Transitioning to Yosemite Valley
Once the sun was fully in the sky and the morning light started to shift, we decided to make our way down to Yosemite Valley for the second half of our session. The drive down the mountain was filled with excited chatter about how incredible the morning had been. Even though we were all running on minimal sleep, the adrenaline from such an amazing shoot kept us going.
By the time we arrived in the valley, the temperature had started to rise, and the landscape had a completely different feel. The towering granite walls, the expansive meadows, and the winding Merced River provided a whole new set of opportunities for creative storytelling.
We spent the next hour or so running through the meadows, capturing playful and spontaneous moments. The shift from the dramatic, moody light of sunrise to the fresh, airy feel of the valley gave us an incredible variety of images, each telling a different part of Morgan and CJ’s story.
Why Sunrise Sessions Are Worth It
This session was a reminder of why sunrise shoots, especially in a place as magnificent as Yosemite, are truly special. Here’s why I always encourage my couples to consider them:
The Light is Unreal – There’s nothing quite like the soft, golden hues of sunrise. It’s cinematic, dreamy, and incredibly flattering.
Fewer Crowds – Yosemite, like many popular national parks, gets packed during peak hours. Early morning sessions allow for a more intimate experience, free from distractions.
A Unique Experience – There’s something so peaceful about being awake before the world, watching the landscape come to life together. It’s an experience in itself, not just a photo session.
Ending on a High Note
As the session wrapped up, we took a moment to soak in our surroundings, reflecting on what an incredible morning it had been. It was the perfect way to close out my trip to Yosemite—capturing two people so deeply in love, in one of the most breathtaking locations in the world.
Morgan and CJ’s willingness to embrace the adventure, to step outside their comfort zone, and to trust the process made all the difference. It’s these kinds of sessions—the ones that feel organic, full of movement, light, and genuine emotion—that truly make my heart sing.
If you’re dreaming of an engagement, elopement, or couples’ session in Yosemite (or anywhere with an epic view), let’s create something unforgettable together. Whether it’s a sunrise adventure or a golden-hour escape, I’m here to tell your love story in the most artful, authentic way possible.
