From the Rockies to the Last Frontier: How I Moved to Alaska and Found My Heart Behind the Lens
Hey friend,
I’m Kari — your local wedding and senior photographer based in the beautiful wilds of Alaska. Fueled by iced coffee (even in the winter), Taylor Swift’s Reputation era, and an undying love for raw, earthy moments, I’m here to help you feel seen, celebrated, and maybe a little bit like a model — but, like, the chill kind who still trips over their own boots sometimes. 😅
Hey friend,
I’m Kari — your local wedding and senior photographer based in the beautiful wilds of Alaska. Fueled by iced coffee (even in the winter), Taylor Swift’s Reputation era, and an undying love for raw, earthy moments, I’m here to help you feel seen, celebrated, and maybe a little bit like a model — but, like, the chill kind who still trips over their own boots sometimes. 😅
But before Alaska? I was a Colorado girl — all big skies, mountain towns, and the occasional traffic jam caused by elk instead of moose. I started my creative life there, camera in one hand and paintbrush in the other, completely obsessed with light, color, and capturing stories in their most honest form.
How the Southwest Inspired Me From The Start
Though I called Colorado home, I fell in love with the bold, earthy colors of the Southwest — especially during my many (many) visits to Santa Fe. There was something about the adobe textures, the vibrant skies, and the rich storytelling in every corner of that art scene that stuck with me.
It’s where my creative roots really took hold — in the blend of natural beauty and deep, soulful connection. That style shows up in my photography to this day: true-to-color edits, bold landscapes, and photos that feel grounded and real.
So… Why Alaska?
Short version: I fell in love. With the landscape. The slower pace. The people. The wild. And yes — even the winter (most days). I moved to Alaska for a fresh start and an even deeper creative challenge, and it delivered more than I could’ve imagined.
Now I get to hike through mossy trails, chase golden hour across mountain ranges, and photograph people who value connection, creativity, and a little bit of adventure. My clients are couples who’ll exchange vows in hiking boots, seniors who bring their books and their boldness, and families who want their chaos captured beautifully.
It’s magic up here. And I feel lucky every day that this is where I get to do what I love.
What You’ll Get With Me
I’m not your “smile and say cheese” type of photographer. I’m your “let’s dance in the field, snort-laugh through the awkward poses, and get the real you on camera” kind of girl.
Whether it’s your wedding day, your senior year, or just an everyday moment that deserves to be remembered, I’m all in. I’ll hype you up, help you feel at ease, and document it in a way that makes you say: Yep. That’s us.
A Few Things You Should Probably Know About Me:
I will absolutely tear up at your wedding. Not even sorry.
I live for seniors who want to bring their dog, their hiking boots, or their favorite novel.
I will climb a hill, stand in a creek, or lie on the ground to get that shot.
I’m equal parts Colorado roots + Alaska grit — with a sprinkle of chaos and a whole lotta heart.
I believe real > perfect. Always.
🤍 Let’s Create Something Beautiful
Thanks for stopping by my little corner of the internet. This blog is where I’ll be sharing everything from session stories to tips and tools for getting the most out of your photography experience — all through the lens of a Colorado-born, Alaska-based creative with a lot to say and even more to capture.
Let’s tell your story in a way that’s wild, real, and unapologetically you.
Ready to chat?
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Why I Love Being a Wedding Photographer in Alaska | Spoiler: it’s not just about the pretty photos (but those help).
I Love Love — The Messy, Honest, Real Kind
Give me the big romantic gestures, sure — but also give me the inside jokes whispered during the ceremony, the way your partner looks at you when you’re not watching, the messy crying-laughing moments during the speeches. That’s the good stuff.
I’m here for the imperfectly perfect kind of love. The kind that shows up fully, celebrates fiercely, and doesn’t care if your veil is blowing sideways because you’re married and that’s what matters.
If you’ve been around here for more than five minutes, you probably know one thing about me:
I. LOVE. LOVE.
Like… full-on cry during vows, smile behind the camera during the first dance, hype-you-up-while-you-freak-out-before-your-ceremony love love.
Being a wedding photographer isn’t just my job — it’s my favorite way to celebrate the real, raw, joyful, emotional, and downright magical stories that couples create together. It’s part storytelling, part time-freezing, part creative chaos… and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
I Love Love — The Messy, Honest, Real Kind
Give me the big romantic gestures, sure — but also give me the inside jokes whispered during the ceremony, the way your partner looks at you when you’re not watching, the messy crying-laughing moments during the speeches. That’s the good stuff.
I’m here for the imperfectly perfect kind of love. The kind that shows up fully, celebrates fiercely, and doesn’t care if your veil is blowing sideways because you’re married and that’s what matters.
I’m Low-Key Obsessed With Event Planning (But Make It Chill)
Okay, confession time: I have a soft spot for a good timeline and a solid color-coded Google doc. I love the details. The florals. The seating charts. The little touches that make your wedding yours.
Before I was a full-time photographer, I spent 6 years in event planning, so when I say I understand how much work goes into making a wedding day run smoothly — I really mean it. That experience helps me help you breathe easier. I’ll build a custom photo timeline, keep us on track, fluff your dress, fix a boutonnière, and make sure your day feels effortless. I’m your behind-the-scenes bestie and your biggest fan.
It’s More Than Photos — It’s Legacy
You won’t remember every second of your wedding day. (In fact, it’ll fly by in a beautiful blur.) But the images? They’ll live on for generations. Your grandkids will see these. Your parents will frame them. You’ll revisit them on anniversaries, on hard days, and on just-because days.
And I get to be the person who captures that legacy?
Ugh. Honored isn’t even a big enough word.
🖤 The Trust Means Everything
Weddings are intimate. Vulnerable. Sacred. You’re trusting me to be there for every big and in-between moment — and that trust? I do not take it lightly. From our first email to your final gallery delivery, I’m invested in your story like it’s my own.
I’ll probably cry with you. I’ll definitely dance with you. And I’ll leave feeling like we just became lifelong friends.
I Love What I Do (And I’m So Dang Lucky)
Being a wedding photographer lets me combine everything I love:
True connection
Creative storytelling
Celebrating people at their happiest
Helping things run smoothly
Capturing real, emotional, honest-to-goodness love
It’s more than a job. It’s a calling. And I am wildly, deeply grateful that I get to do it.
Ready to Tell Your Story?
If you’re planning your wedding and want someone who will celebrate you, support you, and capture your love like it deserves to be remembered — I’m your girl.
Let’s make some magic together.
📥 Inquire Now | 💍 View Wedding Portfolio | 📸 See Real Weddings on the Blog
From Kivgiq to “I Do” – Rachel & Vernon’s Joyful Grandview Inn Wedding
Rachel and Vernon’s love is built on the little things: dancing, fishing, stargazing, cracking jokes during scary movies, throwing down at darts and Yahtzee, and roasting each other like it’s a competitive sport—all in love, of course. Oh, and they’re not shy about winding down their way…so naturally, they wrapped up the night with a relaxed little 4/20 session, just the way they like it.
Some couples just radiate joy, and from the very first moment I met Rachel and Vernon, I knew their wedding would be as full of life as they are. These two are the definition of fun, love, and deep cultural connection—and their September 7, 2023 wedding at The Grandview Inn and Grill in Wasilla? It was a celebration that brought all of that and more.
Rachel and Vernon first met through friends back in 2015, and their bond grew fast—starting as friends, then turning into something deeper. Rachel says it was Vernon’s “Eskimo dancing” and his pride in their shared culture that really captured her heart. So it only made sense that when it came time to propose, Vernon did it in the most them way possible: during their village's Kivgiq celebration, surrounded by friends, family, and tradition.
Their wedding day felt like a continuation of that joy. They flew in from Bethel to celebrate with a small but tight-knit group of loved ones. The setting at Grandview Inn was cozy and welcoming, perfect for their intimate crew.
Rachel made her entrance in a stunning gown from Arctic Rose Bridal Salon, walking down the aisle with her father (cue the tears 😭). Her brother Eddie officiated the ceremony, which made the whole thing feel even more special and close to the heart. Vernon and his crew looked absolutely sharp in their tuxes from D’s Tuxedoes and Formal Wear, bringing the drip for the big day.
And let’s talk about the food: a taco bar (yes, please!) catered by The Grill, and a delicious cake by Cakes by Malinda. The vibes were unmatched—dancing, laughter, and just pure good times. These two know how to throw a party, and when I say they danced the night away, I mean it. From traditional moves to grooving with friends, it was nonstop energy.
Rachel and Vernon’s love is built on the little things: dancing, fishing, stargazing, cracking jokes during scary movies, throwing down at darts and Yahtzee, and roasting each other like it’s a competitive sport—all in love, of course. Oh, and they’re not shy about winding down their way…so naturally, they wrapped up the night with a relaxed little 4/20 session, just the way they like it.
Their wedding was the perfect reflection of who they are: warm, rooted, fun, and full of love for their community and each other. It was a total honor to be there to capture it all.
Mountain Views & Poppin’ Champagne – Cerena & Shawn’s Fun-Filled Wedding at Government Peak Chalet
Cerena and Shawn’s wedding was one of those days I’ll always remember—not just for the stunning views and gorgeous details, but for the feeling. Laid-back, full of joy, and overflowing with love. What more could you ask for?
Some weddings are romantic. Some are beautiful. Some are just plain fun. Cerena and Shawn’s wedding at The Government Peak Chalet on June 30, 2023? It was all three—and then some.
From the moment I arrived, the energy was high and the vibe was chill (my favorite combo). The girls were hanging out in the bridal suite, dancing around, throwing back snacks and a little Jack, totally soaking in the moment. No stress, no rush—just laughter, music, and a bridal party that knew how to start the celebration early.
Outside, the day was beautifully overcast with that soft Alaskan light photographers dream of. Just as the ceremony began, the clouds pulled back just a bit—like nature was making room for the spotlight to fall on these two.
One of the most incredible details was the custom metal wedding arch that Shawn and his friends built by hand. Designed in the shape of the Alaskan mountain range, it stood tall behind them as they exchanged vows, a nod to both the landscape and their deep connection to it. The reception space—styled beautifully by Sierra, the Chalet’s wedding planner—was elegant and earthy, with sage and white linens, lots of greenery, and a cake made with love by a close friend of Cerena’s.
The toasts were equal parts hilarious and heartfelt—classic stories of how Cerena and Shawn met, the kind of tales that leave you grinning ear to ear. But the moment that brought actual tears to my eyes? When Cerena’s kids, Jesslynn and Ray, stood up to speak. Their words about their mom and their love for Shawn were so genuine and moving—it was one of those “this is why I do this” moments for me.
And in case the day didn’t already have enough main character energy, Cerena and Shawn took a little break during their reception to pop some champagne and capture a few extra-fun photos. The bubbly was flying, the laughter was loud, and the photos? Pure gold.
As the night wrapped up, they rode off into the evening in the restored vintage Chevy truck Shawn had spent years rebuilding with his late father. It was more than just a cool getaway—it was a beautiful tribute to legacy and love that lasts beyond the wedding day.
Cerena and Shawn’s wedding was one of those days I’ll always remember—not just for the stunning views and gorgeous details, but for the feeling. Laid-back, full of joy, and overflowing with love. What more could you ask for?