When it comes to wedding photos, why settle for just one experience? Mike & Sophia proved you don’t have to choose between a big celebration with loved ones and an intimate adventure in a breathtaking location—you can have both! Their Zion wedding after-session was the perfect way to extend the magic of their wedding day and capture some truly unforgettable moments together.

Why Do an After-Session in Zion?

If you’re dreaming of adventurous wedding portraits but don’t want to step away from the celebration on your wedding day, an after-session is the way to go. It gives you the freedom to fully enjoy your big day with family and friends while still getting those jaw-dropping, adventure-filled shots in an epic location. Read more about after sessions on this blog!

That’s exactly what Mike & Sophia did. They chose to soak in every moment with their guests on their wedding day, saving the adventure for later. When they arrived in Zion during one of their honeymoon trips, we met up before dawn, headlamps on, ready for an experience they’d never forget.

Hiking Under the Stars for an Epic Sunrise

Before the sun even thought about rising, we hit the trail.  The air was crisp (okay, freezing), and the excitement was high! With headlamps lighting the way, we trekked out to one of Zion’s most breathtaking overlooks. Sophia changed into her gown and veil under a sky full of stars—such a special moment! As the first light of morning hit, the colors of blue hour were absolutely unreal, making for some of the most incredible Zion wedding portraits. Check out this blog for tips to stay warm during your session or elopement!

Making the Most of the Adventure

These two were total troopers, climbing up rocks, exploring all the best spots, and fully embracing the experience. It was so cold they were cracking jokes left and right just to stay warm, and the running joke was “that one’s for the blooper reel!” But even while shivering and laughing through it all, they still looked like total supermodels out there! 

When the sun finally peeked over the ridge, it was pure magic. The golden light wrapped around them, warming up the entire landscape and making every moment feel even more surreal. Their Zion wedding portraits captured not only their love and the breathtaking beauty of the park, but also their shared love of adventure. Even random hikers along the trail couldn’t help but congratulate them, in awe of how Sophia had shed her shawl—because, to us, it felt so much warmer!

The Perfect Way to Capture Both Sides of Your Love Story

For couples who want to celebrate with their favorite people but still crave adventure, a session like this is the perfect way to have it all. You get the best of both worlds—the energy and joy of a big wedding, plus the freedom and intimacy of an epic elopement-style shoot in a place that speaks to your adventurous hearts.

If Zion (or any other incredible location) is calling your name, let’s make it happen! Whether it’s an after-session or a full-on elopement, I’d love to capture your love story in a way that feels 100% you. I’ll help you find the best locations, assist with any permits needed, hike out to epic overlooks, and capture all the real, wild, and joy-filled moments along the way. Sound like your vibe? Let’s start planning your adventure!

Vendors
Photography – Clarissa Wylde Photography
Venue – Zion National Park
Gown – Lulus
Suit – StudioSuits
Second photographer – Christy Renee Photography
Florals, shawl, hair, and makeup all done by the bride!