Ditch the Aisle for the Trails
If the idea of big wedding isn't for you, then you're in the right place
You want your wedding day to feel real. Something that reflects who you are, not what tradition expects.
The problem is that most weddings can feel rushed, overwhelming, and disconnected from what truly matters.
I help couples craft intentional, adventure-filled elopements that feel calm, meaningful, and completely true to you.
Whether it’s watching the sunrise in Yosemite, paddle boarding on Tahoe, or sharing a slow morning in a quiet cabin, I’ll guide you in creating a day that feels effortless and unforgettable, the kind of experience you’ll want to look back on for decades to come.
START PLANNING YOUR ELOPEMENT
The excitement before your vows.
The sound of water flowing over rocks.
The glow of sunrise on your skin.
The way you looked at each other
The laughter echoing off the cliffs.
The stillness after “I do.”
The warmth of your hands finding each other.
The feeling of being exactly where you’re meant to be.
These are the moments I help you hold onto
Tradition isn’t the only way to get married.
You deserve a day that feels wild, meaningful, and entirely yours. not one shaped by tradition.
You don’t need a venue, 200 guests, or anyone’s approval.
Just the two of you and a place that feels like magic — and maybe a few of your closest loved ones!
If a big wedding never felt like your style, you’re not alone. Eloping allows you to slow down, share vows in places that make you feel alive, and spend the entire day with each other doing what you love. Because this day isn’t about doing what’s expected, it’s about doing what feels right for you.
LET'S GET PLANNING
california elopement photographer.
Hey, I'm Raine!
meet your
I'm an elopement photographer and guide based in Northern California, crafting cinematic, nature-rooted wedding experiences for couples who value experiences over tradition. My background in event planning and years spent exploring national parks mean you’ll have someone who not only documents your day beautifully but helps you plan the whole experience. I specialize in creating calm, effortless adventures that feel authentic, artful, and deeply you.
I’ve explored 18 national parks in the US
My favorite hikes are sunrise ones (bonus points for waterfalls!)
I’m a specialty latte guy — think blackberry sage, orange creamsicle, or pumpkin spice from local coffee shops
I live in a tiny home
more about me
Raine is the kind of rain you pray for on your wedding day
This is something my husband and I found ourselves repeating time and time again leading up to our big day. Raine entirely brought our wedding day to life by capturing all the gorgeous moments with his detail and precision in his artistry. Through his skill and professionalism, he amplified our day in a way we will remember forever. Your day will be made with Raine! He ironically is the guiding light & sunshine!
- Akara & Dainen
okay, but what if actually rains?
If you’re dreaming of an outdoor elopement, it’s easy to worry about the weather. But here’s the truth — the most jaw-dropping moments often happen when nature does it's thing. Misty mornings in Yosemite, crimson light breaking through after a storm… it all adds depth, beauty, and uniqueness to your day.
Let me tell you a story.
During an elopement I photographed in Glacier National Park, a storm rolled through right before sunrise. For a moment, it felt like we wouldn’t see the sun at all. But then the clouds opened up, revealing one of the most dramatic, awe-inspiring sunrises I’ve ever witnessed. Don't just take my word for it, you can see for yourself right here in this photo from that morning.
That’s the magic of the outdoors: even when things don’t go as expected, nature always gives you something unforgettable. No matter the forecast, I’ll guide you through backup plans, locations, and timing so you can stay calm, present, and in love with every moment.
view packages
Here’s why even stormy skies can make the best memories.
Just some of the perks of working with me.
Location Scouting
Vendor Referrals
Excursion Planning
Timeline Building
Unique Experience
Stress-Free Planning
I’ll help you find the most breathtaking locations that fit your vision, drawing from years of experience exploring the wild corners of Yosemite, Tahoe, Big Sur, Joshua Tree and beyond.
I'll share my recs for local vendors from florists, to hair + makeup artists, lodging and exciting activities tailored to your preferences.
Whether it’s a sunrise hike, paddle boarding, or a soak in a hidden hot springs, I’ll help you plan a day that feels like an adventure, not an itinerary.
I'll present a few timeline options for you, taking into account the best time of day for lighting at each location, your guest count, your ideal level of adventure, and all the details that make the day flow effortlessly.
I’ll help you craft a one-of-a-kind experience that's completely your vibe, whether it’s an all-day adventure or a relaxed celebration with loved ones.
I’ll handle the logistics, from permits to backup locations, so you can have a stress-free day focusing on what truly matters: being together and taking in every moment.
The Heart Behind My Work
Reverence for wild places
Calm, grounded energy
Presence over perfection
Authentic storytelling
let's get planning
Nature always brings me back to what matters. It fills me with a sense of peace and awe for being alive. Moments like watching low-hanging fog gently roll through mountain valleys, the rush of standing beneath a waterfall, the fleeting colors of autumn at their peak, or the moment clouds ignite with color during sunset. Out there, time slows down. Every worry fades, replaced by gratitude to simply be alive to witness something so beautiful.
That feeling is what is what I want you to experience on your wedding day. Something more than just a celebration, but an experience that feels grounded, alive, overflowing with beauty and a sense of awe for each other and the place you've chosen to say "I do."
Sharing the sense of peace and connection I’ve found outdoors
"But we’re so awkward in front of the camera! Is that okay?"
That's what I'm here for! Here's how I'll guide you even if you feel awkward
Almost every couple tells me this before their elopement, and by the end of the day, they always say how natural it felt.
I get it. Being in front of the camera, a little unsure of what to do or where to look. That’s why my approach blends natural prompts, gentle posing, and candid moments where you forget I’m even there. I’ll guide you just enough so you feel confident and never wonder what to do next, while leaving room for the laughter, connection, and quiet moments that tell your story best.
This isn’t an all-day photoshoot, it’s your wedding day, meant to be lived and felt. I’m there to capture it as it naturally unfolds, sometimes with gentle direction, and other times by simply stepping back and letting the moment speak for itself. The result? Images that look cinematic because they are real.
let's get planning
Our time with Raine was truly memorable
My husband and I are so happy we worked with Raine for our elopement! Being someone who’s camera shy, I am grateful for Raine’s fun & lighthearted energy that made both me and my husband feel comfortable and at ease during our session. Our time with Raine was truly memorable and the moments he captured are incredible- we couldn’t recommend him enough!
- Sarah & Nick
So, how does this work?
Step One
Step Two
Step Three
After you submit a message, I’ll reach out via e-mail or text. We’ll set up a video call to discuss your vision and start brainstorming ideas.
With logistics and timelines seamlessly handled in the planning process and every moment being documented, all that'll be left for you to do is be present and take in every moment.
You'll get your first sneak peeks in 48 hours, with some highlights from the day. A full digital gallery will follow 4-6 weeks after. You will be able to share your gallery with friends & family + order prints straight from your gallery.
Reach out
GET MARRIED!
RELIVE it
