Storytelling
FOR THE ADVENTUROUS
My favorite part about photography is the freedom to create whatever you can dream up and combine it with something beautiful that already exists. As a California Elopement Photographer I help you dream BIG dreams, and make them into a reality for your special day. Together we will find a stunning location and combine it with the most defining moment that you will ever share as a couple together.
There's just something special about combining the beauty that already exists with genuine emotions felt between two people. I always aim (pun intended) to capture real moments that will continue to bring you back every time you view the image when it's become a beautiful memory that is now framed on your wall.
CAPTURING EMOTIVE AND PLAYFUL MOMENTS
in breathtaking locations
20 YEARS FROM NOW
you won't be sorry
Storybook Photography is a Yosemite and California Adventure Elopement, Wedding, and Engagement Photographer.
Storybook Photography is a Yosemite Elopement, Wedding, and Engagement Photographer.
STRESS-FREE
Elopement Planning Assistance
I know how stressful wedding planning can be, that's why I chose to elope instead!
I'm the type of person who is always looking for budget-friendly options, but I am willing to invest in the experiences that matter, so when it cam to planning my wedding, eloping was a perfect fit for me.
As someone who has eloped, I am happy to help you with any and all of the planning process. From picking the best location, deciding how to include family, finding great vendors, or obtaining a special-use permit for our location; I'll be here to help you with every step along the way. Oh, and no travel fees!
Yep, that''s me,
I eloped too!
Why should we elope in California?
In what other state can you get rocky coastlines, sandy beaches, snow-capped mountains, dense forests, rugged trails, gorgeous city scapes, breathtaking waterfalls, golden desert sunsets, and meadows lush with wildflowers?
I rest my case.
I may be partial because I grew up in California, and have lived here most of my life, but I stayed because there is no other state that provides the variety of beauty like California does.
The bonus? I'm an expert when it comes to California, and I know all of the most gorgeous places to make your elopement the most memorable experience you will ever share together. From the best taco shops to the most epic views, be prepared for the time of your life!
Top Ten Places to Elope in California
1. Yosemite National Park
2. Big Sur
3. Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
4. Sunset Cliffs, San Diego
5. Sonora Pass
6. Mammoth Lakes
7. Joshua Tree National Park
8. Lake Tahoe
9. Burney Falls
10. Catalina Island
LOVE NOTES
WHAT DOES AN ELOPEMENT TIMELINE LOOK LIKE?
Your day can be exactly what you want to make of it, but in most cases we will need to plan out travel time to the locations (including drive time, parking, and hiking to the spot) time for getting ready, the vows, and the post-ceremony celebration!
WHY WOULD WE NEED TO OBTAIN A PERMIT?
It’s common not to realize that elopement permits are a “thing” or wonder why they are often required, but don’t stress, this is part of the process that I can help with! An elopement permit is actually helpful for several reasons. Some locations will ask for a ceremony time and will only issue one permit for that window of time. This can ensure privacy on your special day together. Another reason why permits are important is to protect the natural beauty in state or national parks. Our natural landscapes can be more delicate than we realize, and some decorations may be harmful to the environment including wildlife or plant life. I’m a firm believer in leaving no trace, and obtaining a permit can help ensure that the park office is aware of the wedding and can educate us on the rules and regulations for the particular area we plan on using, so we can make sure we aren’t damaging the land in any way. As your photographer, I will be helping you throughout this process, and permits are often pretty simple to get, as long as we plan for them far enough in advance.
HOW DO I CHOOSE A LOCATION?
Picking a location is the fun part! Where do you see yourself saying your vows? Are you envisioning sand in your toes, a gorgeous mountain range, a high-sierra meadow at sunrise, or a cliffside ceremony? If you can dream it, we can make it happen! Keep in mind certain locations may only be for avid hikers, and we’d need to include travel time and getting ready into your plans. Also will it be somewhere that you plan to revisit in years to come? These are all great questions to ask yourself while dreaming up your dream elopement location. If this doesn't help you start brainstorming then reach out to me and I'll send you a free quiz to help you narrow the perfect location for you.
CAN WE INCLUDE OUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS?
Gone are the days of running away to tie the knot together, unless of course, that’s your groove. We are firm believers that you can include members of your family in your elopement plans, as long as they are up for the adventure! I suggest inviting only the people you know will help keep the day’s focus on YOU, and leave out the people who you feel pressure to include, but don’t bring you joy! This day should be about your love and starting your journey together, everything else gets left behind! Also, some people prefer to include a very small group (or no one) at the elopement ceremony and then they plan a reception or party to follow, either on the date or at a later date. There are no rules when it comes to elopement weddings, and that’s part of the freedom!
Elopement FAQs
I’ve been a hopeless romantic my whole life, I just swoon over romantic details like the soft light at the beginning of the day, blades of grass as they move in the wind, and the way you gently remove strands of hair from your eyes; it’s these details that I aim to highlight, not brush over, I see them all.
I’ve spent the past decade and a half honing in my skills as a portrait photographer, capturing life, love and everything in between. I studied photography extensively during my time in college, and I’ve interned for some of the greatest photographers of our generation. During that time, stories like yours have inspired me to continue in this work.
In my pursuit to create images that will hold great meaning, my eyes are ever-searching for the fleeting moments that others often miss, and to obtain that I aim to make you feel as comfortable in front of the camera as you are sipping coffee in your favorite cozy arm chair. So sit back and relax, I promise to be just as committed to your experience as I am to my art.
SALISHA BLACKBURN
The artist behind the lens
THIS ALL SOUNDS GREAT
How do I book with you?
Click the button below to fill out a contact form and I'll get back to you within two business days.
Make sure you are checking your email, and double-check your spam folder if you don't hear from me soon!
I am so excited for you to start the elopement planning process with me! I just know we are going to make some beautiful memories together!
