Documentary-Style Wedding Photographer in Bozeman, Montana: Erin & Zach’s Love Story

Bride and Groom on the dance floor - First Dance at Rockin TJ Ranch, Bozeman, MT 

As a documentary-style wedding photographer in Bozeman, Montana, I had the honor of capturing Erin and Zach’s incredible wedding day. Their love story began with a chance meeting at a UChicago party and blossomed into a beautiful journey that led them to their wedding at Rockin TJ Ranch in Bozeman, MT. My goal was to document their day naturally, focusing on candid moments that tell their unique story.

Erin and Zach’s wedding was filled with genuine emotion and unscripted moments, from heartfelt vows to joyful interactions with family and friends. This is the heart of documentary-style wedding photography—capturing real moments as they unfold, without forced poses. Every glance, smile, and tear was preserved in a way that reflects who they truly are as a couple.

Wedding Party

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Bozeman, MT Wedding Photography with a Personal Touch

If you’re looking for Bozeman, MT wedding photography that reflects your unique love story, my documentary approach is perfect for you. I’ll capture every candid moment, so you can relive your special day for years to come.

Cemetery at Rockin TJ Ranch in Bozeman 

See Your Love Story Through a Lens

I believe that every couple’s journey deserves to be told beautifully. I’m passionate about capturing those raw, authentic moments that reflect who you are and how you love. Let’s work together to create images that will stand the test of time.

Alyssa Johnson - Rocky Mountain wedding photographer

About Alyssa

I capture the genuine beauty and unique moments of your special day, creating a lasting visual story of your love.

In addition to her photography endeavors, Alyssa balances her roles as a devoted mother to her daughter and beloved dog, and as a supportive wife to Tim. Outside of work, she embraces a myriad of outdoor pursuits, including hiking, biking, running, skiing, snowboarding, camping, fishing, hunting, and paddleboarding, relishing every opportunity for adventure and exploration amidst Montana's breathtaking landscapes. Alongside her professional pursuits, Alyssa also dedicates her time as a full-time Real Estate Advisor at Engel & Volkers Bozeman Real Estate, further enriching her multifaceted life.

Outdoor wedding photography Bozeman

Ready to make your memories last?

Benefits You Can Expect:

Benefit 1: Natural, authentic photos that reflect who you are
I create a comfortable atmosphere where you can truly be yourselves.

Benefit 2: A personalized photography experience
Each session is tailored to tell your unique love story.

Benefit 3: Beautifully crafted keepsakes
High-quality prints, albums, and digital images that you’ll cherish forever.

Rockin TJ Ranch Montana Wedding and Special  Event , Bozeman Montana photographer

Testimonials

How It Works:

Step 1: Schedule a Consultation
Let’s chat about your wedding, your vision, and how I can help.

Step 2: Plan Your Session
We’ll tailor the session to reflect your style and preferences.

Step 3: Capture the Magic
On your big day, I’ll be there to ensure every important moment is captured beautifully.

Here’s What You’ll Get:

1. Personalized pre-wedding consultation

2. Full-day wedding photography coverage

3. Highlight 1-2 mins video (optional)

4. High-resolution digital images

5. Online gallery for easy sharing

6. Customized photo album ( optional)

7. Sneak peek within 48 hours

8. Professional retouching on all images

9. Vendor recommendations and timeline assistance

10. Tailored photography experience to match your love story

Ready to get started?

Venue Info: Rockin TJ Ranch; https://rockingtjranch.com/

Caterer:Catering Under the Big Sky- Rockin TJ Ranch exclusive catering

Florist:Three Forks Floral; https://www.threeforksfloral.com/

Cake Artist:Elle's belles bakery; https://www.ellesbelles.com/

Band/DJ: Mach 1 Music

Makeup &/or Hair Artist: Alisha Harvey (Sonder Hair Salon) and Taylor Engen

Dress Store & Designer: The Bride's Shoppe

Bridesmaids Dress Store: Morilee

Groom's Tux Store: (groomsmen) Jabbours Clothing and Tailoring; Grooms was a custom made suit through Dillards

Invitation Designer: Mint

With my experience as a documentary-style wedding photographer in Bozeman, Montana, I’m committed to telling your story in the most authentic way possible. Let’s create timeless memories together!

How Many Hours Should I Book My Wedding Photographer For?

Uncertainty in Planning Planning a wedding involves many details, and knowing how many hours of photography you need can be one of the most confusing parts.

Ensuring Adequate Coverage You want to ensure all significant moments are captured without paying for unnecessary hours.

Tailored Coverage Based on Your Day By understanding your wedding day schedule and prioritizing key moments, you can select the right photography package that meets both your needs and your budget.

Building a Wedding Timeline Always include extra time in your schedule to avoid feeling rushed. Unexpected delays can happen, and it’s better to have extra time and not need it than to stress about fitting everything in.

First Look Having a first look can be a private and calming moment before the ceremony, allowing you to spend more time together and take more photos without the pressure of guests waiting.

Weddings Without a First Look If you choose not to have a first look, plan for extra time during the cocktail hour for formal photos. Ensure everyone knows they’ll be needed for pictures immediately after the ceremony.

How Long Do Wedding Photos Take? Standard packages usually range from 6 to 10 hours. Here’s how different packages can fit your day:

• 6 Hour Package:

• Ideal for smaller weddings with fewer activities.

  2:15 - 3:15 First Look and Portraits

  3:15 - 4:15 Wedding Party and Family Formals

  4:15 - 5:00 Photograph ceremony & reception spaces while you wait for guests to arrive

  5:00 - 5:30 Ceremony

  5:30 - 6:30 Cocktail Hour

  6:30 - 7:00 Introductions into reception, First Dance, Parent Dances, Speeches/Toasts

  7:00 - 7:45 Dinner

  7:45 Cake cutting

  7:45 - 8:15 Dancing (Photographers leave at 8:15)

• 8 Hour Package:

• Covers getting ready photos and provides a balanced schedule.

  11:45 - 1:00 Getting Ready Photos

  1:00 - 1:15 Travel to Ceremony Location (15 min)

  1:15 - 2:15 First Look and Portraits

  2:15 - 3:15 Wedding Party and Family Formals

  3:15 - 4:00 Photograph ceremony & reception spaces while you wait for guests to arrive

  4:00 - 4:30 Ceremony

  4:30 - 5:30 Cocktail Hour

  5:30 - 6:00 Introductions into reception, First Dance, Parent Dances, Speeches/Toasts

  6:00 - 6:45 Dinner

  6:45 Cake cutting

  6:45 - 7:45 Dancing (Photographers leave at 7:45)

• 10 Hour Package:

• Perfect for longer ceremonies or multiple locations.

  11:00 - 12:15 Getting Ready Photos

  12:15 - 12:45 Travel to Ceremony Location (30 min)

  1:15 - 2:15 First Look and Portraits

  2:15 - 3:15 Wedding Party and Family Formals

  3:15 - 4:00 Photograph ceremony space while you wait for guests to arrive

  4:00 - 5:00 Ceremony

  5:00 - 5:30 Travel to reception (30 min)

  5:30 - 6:30 Cocktail Hour

  6:30 - 7:00 Introductions into reception, First Dance, Parent Dances, Speeches/Toasts

  7:00 - 7:45 Dinner

  7:45 Cake cutting

  7:45 - 8:30 Dancing (Photographers leave at 9:00)

  8:30 -9:00 Exit (Photographers leave at 9:00)

Additional Hours or/and Custom Hours If unsure, start with a basic package and add hours as needed. Discuss your options with your photographer to find the best fit.

Example Timelines Provide your photographer with details about your day for a customized timeline, including whether you want getting-ready photos and if you’re having a first look.

About Alyssa

I capture the genuine beauty and unique moments of your special day, creating a lasting visual story of your love.

In addition to her photography endeavors, Alyssa balances her roles as a devoted mother to her daughter and beloved dog, and as a supportive wife to Tim. Outside of work, she embraces a myriad of outdoor pursuits, including hiking, biking, running, skiing, snowboarding, camping, fishing, hunting, and paddleboarding, relishing every opportunity for adventure and exploration amidst Montana's breathtaking landscapes. Alongside her professional pursuits, Alyssa also dedicates her time as a full-time Real Estate Advisor at Engel & Volkers Bozeman Real Estate, further enriching her multifaceted life.

Ready to Capture Your Wedding Day?

Benefits You Can Expect

• Comprehensive Coverage - Capture every significant moment from start to finish.

• Customized Attention - Photography packages tailored to your specific needs.

• Artistic Excellence - Stunning, candid photos that highlight the essence of your day.

Testimonials

How It Works: Three Simple Steps

1. Consultation - Discuss your vision and requirements.

2. Planning - Develop a customized photography plan.

3. Execution - Capture every precious moment of your wedding day.

Here’s What You’ll Get

1. Flawless Images: High edited photos

2. Timeless Memories: Freezing time

3. Authentic Moments: Capturing the moment

4. Effortless Elegance: Natural posing

5. Emotional Impact: Capture emotion and feeling

6. Seamless Coordination: Communication skills

7. Perfect Visuals: Good lighting and editing

8. Genuine Reflections: Capturing personality

9. Reliable Expertise: Experience

10. Stress-Free Solutions: Problem solving

Ready to Get Started?

By understanding your wedding timeline and selecting the right photography package, you can ensure every important moment is beautifully captured. Let me help you preserve the memories of your special day.

Mastering Wedding Planning: A Comprehensive Timeline for Stress-Free Preparation

Are wedding bells ringing in your future? Congratulations! Planning your big day is an exciting journey filled with love, laughter, and, let's be honest, a touch of stress. But fear not, because with the right approach, you can navigate the wedding planning process with ease and grace.

As someone who has walked down the aisle and planned their own wedding, I understand the importance of spreading out the tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed. So, let's dive into a comprehensive wedding planning timeline that will help you stay organized and stress-free in the months leading up to your special day.

12-10 Months Before the Wedding:

• Set the Date: Choose a date that works for you and your partner, taking into consideration important factors like season, venue availability, and guest schedules.

• Secure Your Venue: Whether you're opting for a grand ballroom or a picturesque outdoor location, book your venue early to ensure availability.

• Draft Your Guest List: Start compiling a list of family and friends you want to invite. This will help you determine the size and scope of your wedding.

10 Months Before the Wedding:

• Book Key Vendors: From photographers to florists, caterers to DJs, secure your essential vendors to bring your vision to life.

• Create Your Wedding Website: Build a digital hub where guests can find important information about your wedding, including RSVP options and registry details.

• Select Your Bridal Party: Choose the special people who will stand by your side on your big day.

• Capture Precious Moments: Schedule an engagement photoshoot to commemorate this exciting time in your lives.

• Choose an Officiant: Whether it's a religious figure, a close friend, or a professional officiant, select someone who will help make your ceremony unforgettable.

8 Months Before the Wedding:

• Find THE Dress: Begin the search for your dream wedding gown and schedule fittings to ensure a perfect fit.

• Indulge in Cake Tastings: Sample delicious cake flavors and designs, and place your order with your chosen bakery.

• Experiment with Hair and Makeup: Schedule trials with hairstylists and makeup artists to find the perfect look for your wedding day.

6 Months Before the Wedding:

• Send Out Save the Dates: Give your guests a heads-up about your wedding date so they can mark their calendars.

• Plan Your Honeymoon Getaway: Start researching destinations and booking flights and accommodations for your post-wedding escape.

• Select Wedding Bands: Choose rings that symbolize your eternal love and commitment.

• Order Bridesmaids' Dresses: Coordinate with your bridal party to select and order their attire.

• Celebrate the Countdown: Toast to six months until "I do" with a special date night or celebration.

5 Months Before the Wedding:

• Dive Into DIY Projects: Get creative and personalize your wedding with handmade decorations, favors, or signage.

4 Months Before the Wedding:

• Nail Down Groomsmen Suits: Choose attire for the groomsmen that complements your wedding theme and style.

• Finalize Hair and Makeup Plans: Confirm details with your beauty team to ensure a flawless look on the big day.

• Confirm All Vendors: Touch base with each vendor to review contracts and finalize arrangements.

2 Months Before the Wedding:

• Craft Your Wedding Day Timeline: Plan out the schedule for your wedding day, including ceremony start time, reception events, and photo sessions.

• Mail Out Invitations: Send out your wedding invitations, complete with RSVP instructions and any additional information.

• Arrange Day-of Transportation: Coordinate transportation logistics to ensure a smooth arrival and departure on your wedding day.

6 Weeks Before the Wedding:

• Obtain Your Marriage License: Complete the necessary paperwork to make your union official.

• Celebrate With a Bridal Shower: Enjoy a special celebration with your loved ones as you prepare for your journey down the aisle.

• Shop for Gifts: Purchase thoughtful presents for your bridal party and your partner to exchange on the morning of the wedding.

1 Month Before the Wedding:

• Attend Your Final Dress Fitting: Make any last-minute adjustments to ensure your gown fits perfectly.

• Enjoy Your Bachelorette Party: Let loose and celebrate with your closest friends before the big day arrives.

• Review Music Choices: Meet with your DJ or band to finalize your playlist and any special song requests.

• Have Final Meetings: Touch base with your photographer and other vendors to review timelines and shot lists.

2 Weeks Before the Wedding:

• Confirm RSVPs: Follow up with guests who have not yet responded and finalize your guest list.

• Finalize Seating Arrangements: Organize seating assignments and create place cards for your guests.

• Write Your Vows: Take time to write heartfelt vows that express your love and commitment to each other.

• Share Responsibilities: Communicate with your bridal party about their roles and responsibilities on the wedding day.

1 Week Before the Wedding:

• Pack Your Emergency Bag: Prepare a bag with essential items like makeup, snacks, and a sewing kit for any last-minute emergencies.

• Pamper Yourself: Treat yourself to a spa day or pampering session to relax and unwind before the festivities begin.

• Get Some Rest: Make self-care a priority and get plenty of rest leading up to your wedding day.

Conclusion:

With this comprehensive wedding planning timeline, you can tackle each task methodically and enjoy the journey leading up to your special day. Remember to enlist the help of family and friends, stay organized, and most importantly, cherish every moment of this magical time in your life. Happy planning and best wishes for a lifetime of love and happiness! 🎉💍✨

Looking for a Wedding Planner?

If you're feeling overwhelmed or simply want expert guidance to ensure your wedding day runs smoothly, consider hiring a wedding planner. Here are a few that come highly recommended:

1. Event by Killian : Various events Killian worked during college and after graduation include weddings, anniversary parties, fundraisers, birthday parties, and corporate functions. Her favorite part of being an event planner is seeing the joy that her work can bring to someone on one of their most important days. Strengthening my skills and gaining experience over the years has fueled her passion to plan events for a living, thus prompting Killian to start Events by Killian, LLC in 2020.

   During my time off, She love to hike around Bozeman with her husband and her three dogs! Killian am also an avid reader, a runner, and a tea drinker.

2. Roam Wild Events: Jenny started out in the service industry, and for years, weddings were always what she looking forward to working the most. Getting to know how a couple met, setting a special table or finding a bride's "something new" necklace were always the favorite part of her job. 

   Her attention to detail, organization and kind heart landed her a position as an event coordinator with a local Big Sky business, and from there, she found her calling. 

   "I strive for perfection in the small details. Planning a wedding  is no small feat, but it's my job to make sure everything goes off the day of without a hitch. Allowing a couple to enjoy their big day is such a honor, and there's no better feeling allowing someone to enjoy everything they've planned and looked forward to for so long."

3. Addie & Co : From a young age Addie started making hair bows, cakes, painting, and drawing! Her mom and Addie started to decorate weddings here and there for friends, and Addie have since decided to just do it full force! Addie love seeing your dreams come to life and to make it all happen! Most people think she just do weddings, but Addie also do baptisms, blessings, birthdays, bridal showers, bachelorette parties, baby showers… you name it she can help you!

Remember, hiring a wedding planner can alleviate much of the stress associated with planning a wedding and allow you to fully immerse yourself in the excitement of this special time. Reach out to these recommended planners to explore how they can help turn your wedding dreams into reality. Happy planning! 🌟💐

Love in Full Bloom: A Photographic Odyssey Through Montana's Engagement Season - Exclusive Offer Inside!

Introduction: Nestled in the heart of Montana and beyond, where the sky meets the earth in a grand embrace, there's a magic that lingers in the air – it's the whimsical season of engagements! As a devoted storyteller behind the lens, I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to embark on a photographic odyssey, capturing love in full bloom against the backdrop of Montana's awe-inspiring landscapes.

Unveiling the Canvas of Montana's Love Story: Picture this: majestic mountains standing tall, the gentle rustle of leaves in the crisp air, and two hearts intertwined in a dance of love. Montana's Engagement Season is more than a timeframe; it's a canvas waiting to be painted with the vibrant hues of your unique love story. From secret waterfalls to expansive meadows, each location becomes a stage for your personal tale of romance.

Whispers of Love in Every Frame: In the heart of Engagement Season, I invite couples to surrender to the magic of the moment. Together, we'll embark on a journey through candid laughter, stolen glances, and the unspoken language of love. With each click of the shutter, I aim to capture not just poses, but the poetry that unfolds in the quiet whispers of affection, creating a visual symphony that tells your love story in every frame.

Montana's Love Alchemy: Montana isn't just a backdrop; it's an active participant in the love alchemy that takes place during Engagement Season. From the drama of a mountain sunset to the intimacy of a fireside cuddle, every location becomes a character in your love narrative. It's not just about the couple; it's about the love affair between the couple and the breathtaking surroundings that Montana offers.

Beyond Boundaries, Beyond Horizons: While Montana's landscapes are undeniably captivating, love knows no boundaries. Beyond the horizon of Big Sky Country, I am ready to follow your love story wherever it may lead. Whether it's a coastal rendezvous, an urban escapade, or a rustic retreat, let's co-create a visual tapestry that mirrors the uniqueness of your love in any setting you desire.

Exclusive Offer: Book Your Wedding and Save! To add an extra sprinkle of joy to your love story, I'm thrilled to offer an exclusive discount for couples who book their wedding with me during this enchanting Engagement Season. Your journey doesn't end with the engagement; it's just the beginning, and I want to be there to capture every chapter of your love story. DM me to secure your date and let the odyssey through Montana's Engagement Season begin, painting your love story in hues that echo for a lifetime. 🌿💑📸

Get More Info and Book Now

A Timeless Affair: Dinah and Jericho's Intimate Courthouse Wedding in Butte, MT

Introduction: Love stories are often punctuated by unique and intimate moments that create lasting memories. In the heart of Butte, Montana, Dinah and Jericho shared their special day in the historic Old Butte-Silver Bow County Justice Court. Built in 1903-1904, this courthouse became the backdrop for their timeless wedding, capturing the essence of their love within its storied walls. Join us as we delve into the details of their intimate celebration, where cherished moments were created in a space steeped in history.

The Old Butte-Silver Bow County Justice Court: Dinah and Jericho's wedding took place within the walls of the Old Butte-Silver Bow County Justice Court, a historic building that served as the centerpiece of their special day. With its rich architectural heritage and vintage charm, this courthouse provided a distinct setting that embodied the couple's desire for a unique and intimate wedding experience.

An Indoor Affair: Inside the courthouse, the ceremony unfolded in an atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. As Dinah and Jericho exchanged their vows in the courtroom, adorned with ornate wooden accents and classic furnishings, their love resonated with the building's timeless character. The absence of mountain views was compensated by the ambiance created by the historical architecture, giving the event an air of grandeur.

Short and Sweet Photo Session: Following the ceremony, the couple indulged in a brief two-hour photo session within the courthouse and its immediate surroundings. While they missed out on capturing the sweeping vistas of the mountains, the old-world charm of the building and its intricate details provided an exceptional backdrop for their wedding portraits. Every corner offered a new opportunity for the photographer to immortalize the couple's love in an environment that exuded history and character.

Intimate Moments: Dinah and Jericho's wedding, confined to the courthouse, radiated an intimacy that is often difficult to achieve in larger, more elaborate venues. The lack of distractions allowed their loved ones to truly focus on the couple, creating an atmosphere of profound connection and heartfelt emotions. The absence of a grand mountain view was inconsequential in the face of the love that filled the room, encapsulating the true spirit of their union.

Embracing History: The Old Butte-Silver Bow County Justice Court's historical significance added an extra layer of charm to Dinah and Jericho's wedding. Built over a century ago, the courthouse stood as a witness to countless stories and events. By choosing this venue, the couple not only celebrated their love but also paid homage to the town's rich past, creating an even deeper connection to the community and the building itself.

Conclusion: Dinah and Jericho's intimate courthouse wedding in the Old Butte-Silver Bow County Justice Court showcased the beauty of celebrating love within a historic setting. Although the venue lacked a view of the mountains, the grandeur of the courthouse and the couple's unwavering commitment to one another transcended the need for natural scenery. Their short photo session captured their love amidst the timeless architecture, emphasizing the significance of the moment and the historical backdrop. This unforgettable wedding serves as a reminder that true love can thrive within the walls of any cherished space, and that the power of history can add an extra layer of enchantment to a couple's journey of togetherness.

Laid Back Bozeman Montana Wedding for Matt & Youra’s

Congratulations to newlyweds Matt & Youra Thompson! Last month I had the pleasure of being a part of the Thompson's special day. The atmosphere was full of love, situated at their family's home in Bozeman, with friends, family, and beautiful surroundings.

This wedding was very enjoyable. I had so much fun chatting with everyone, enjoying their yummy food, and capturing photos. We were all fortunate that the weather held off for the ceremony as you never know what the weather may do this time of year.

After the beautiful ceremony we gathered to take family and bridal party photos. It was heartwarming, during the dinner reception, listening to many of the family's closest friends and family speak about how amazing and sweet the two newlyweds are.

I adore them both and am so excited for what the future holds. Congratulations and best wishes to the happy couple, Mr & Mrs Thompson!

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““You know you’re in love when you don’t want to fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.” ”

— Dr Seuss