Beautiful Yosemite Engagement Photos | Hiking Sentinel Dome at Sunrise
As a Yosemite National Park engagement photographer and hiker, I’m always on the lookout for those breathtaking, underrated viewpoints, and let me tell you - Sentinel Dome is one of the best! When Sabrina first reached out about doing engagement photos at Glacier Point at sunrise, I casually mentioned, "Hey, how about a little hike to Sentinel Dome instead?" Now, Sabrina and Augie had never really hiked before, especially not before sunrise, but after a little convincing (and the promise of epic views), they were all in!!
Planning your engagement session in yosemite
Now, I’ve done this hike a lot, and I’ll be honest… it’s moderate. There are definitely some huff-and-puff moments, and I always tell my couples, "Leave the heels at home and bring shoes with grip because granite can be sneaky." Before the session, I sent them a list of things to bring: warm layers, comfy hiking shoes, snacks (because snacks are life), and a headlamp since we’d be hiking in the dark.
We started the trek before sunrise, just the three of us, under a sky filled with stars lighting our way. As we walked through the peaceful woods, I had this moment of, Wow, how freaking cool is this? Their first hike together, in Yosemite, as an engaged couple with me as their Yosemite photographer to capture this moment - what an unforgettable experience!
Why Sentinel Dome is Perfect for Yosemite Engagement Photos
We reached the top just before the sun peeked over the Half Dome, and holy cow, the colors were unreal. Think soft pastels melting into golden hues, with sweeping 360-degree views of Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Valley. And the best part? We had it all to ourselves. It was quiet, peaceful, and ridiculously romantic, exactly what Yosemite engagement photos should be!
Sabrina and Augie wanted their engagement photos in Yosemite to reflect them, relaxed, fun, and totally in the moment. So instead of dressing up, they wore casual, comfy outfits that felt natural. Honestly? I loved it. Nothing forced, nothing stiff, just two people in love, soaking up one of the most beautiful places in the world!
As we explored the dome and took in the views, the sun finally rose, casting this dreamy golden glow across the valley. It was honestly the perfect morning. But just when I thought it couldn’t get any better - boom, mama bear and her cubs made a guest appearance on our way down! (Don’t worry, we admired them from a safe distance.) Yosemite always has a way of surprising me, and this moment was no exception.
And then, plot twist - as we hiked back, Sabrina and Augie officially asked me to be their yosemite wedding photographer! Cue my happy dance. I seriously cannot wait to photograph their wedding in May, and you better believe they’ll be making another blog appearance soon!
Looking for a Yosemite ENGAGEMENT Photographer Who Loves hiking?
If you’re dreaming of an engagement, elopement, or wedding in Yosemite, and you want a photographer who will hike, climb, or even backpack to capture your love story in the most epic way - you’ve found the right person. Let’s plan your perfect Yosemite adventure together!
Ready to start? Let’s do this - Sentinel Dome engagement photos might just be calling your name! 😉
