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!

Kara and Ryan: A Love Story for the Ages

Capturing Authentic Moments

Many couples struggle to find ways to capture their wedding day that truly reflect their unique love story and personalities. Traditional photography often feels too posed and fails to convey the genuine emotions of the day.

Finding the Right Venue

Selecting a venue that not only looks beautiful but also complements the couple's story and style can be challenging. Many venues can be either too commercial or lack the intimate charm couples are looking for.

Personalized Wedding Photography and Unique Venues

By choosing personalized wedding photography and a unique venue like Bozeman Mountain Escape, couples can ensure their special day is captured in a way that truly represents their journey. With a focus on authentic moments and a picturesque setting, every photograph will tell the story of their love.

Capturing the Magic of Their Wedding Day at Bozeman Mountain Escape

On Sunday, May 26, 2024, Kara and Ryan celebrated their love at the beautiful Bozeman Mountain Escape in Livingston, MT. Their journey, filled with joy, adventure, and heartfelt moments, led them to this perfect day.

How It All Began

Kara and Ryan's story began in an unexpected place—a CrossFit gym in Nashville, TN. Kara was pushing through a grueling set of burpees, and Ryan, watching her determination, thought to himself, "Wow! She has some gravel in her gut." Intrigued, he soon mustered the courage to ask her out on a date. To his delight, she said "Yes!"

Falling in Love

Their connection grew stronger with each passing day. They embarked on adventures big and small, from sampling the best chicken wings in Tennessee and camping in monsoon conditions to enjoying movies, dining at fancy restaurants, and even washing their cars together. Each experience brought them closer, deepening their understanding and love for one another.

A New Chapter in Bozeman

In 2022, Kara and Ryan moved to Bozeman, MT, to start the next chapter of their lives together. Living in the "great white north" presented new challenges, like driving in snow and budgeting with two incomes. Through it all, they supported each other, learning to navigate the quirks of cohabitation. Their love grew stronger with each new lesson and shared experience.

The Proposal

By 2023, Kara and Ryan knew they were ready for the next step in their relationship. In December, under the watchful eyes of the bison and wolves in Yellowstone National Park, Ryan asked Kara to spend the rest of her life with him. Her answer was a resounding "Yes!"

The Wedding Day

As Kara and Ryan stood together at Bozeman Mountain Escape, surrounded by family and friends, they reflected on their incredible journey. From the CrossFit gym in Nashville to the majestic landscapes of Montana, their love story has been one of perseverance, growth, and unwavering commitment.

Join us in celebrating the start of Kara and Ryan Van Sluytman's new life together. May their days be filled with continued adventure, laughter, and the deep love that has brought them to this beautiful moment.

About Me

At Alyssa Johnson Photography, we are passionate about capturing the authentic and unique moments of your special day. With years of experience in wedding photography and a keen eye for detail, we ensure that every photograph tells the story of your love in the most beautiful way possible.

Want to see how we can transform your wedding memories?

Benefits You Can Expect

Benefit 1: Authentic Moments Captured – We focus on candid shots that reflect genuine emotions.
Benefit 2: Personalized Service – Tailored photography that tells your unique love story.
Benefit 3: Stunning Venues – We help you choose venues that complement your style and story.

Testimonials

How It Works

1. Consultation – We discuss your vision and preferences.

2. Planning – We help you choose the perfect venue and plan the shoot.

3. The Big Day – We capture every special moment, ensuring your love story is beautifully documented.

Here’s What You’ll Get

1. Personalized photography service

2. Pre-wedding consultation

3. Venue selection assistance

4. High-resolution digital images

5. Custom photo album

6. Online gallery for sharing

7. Candid and posed shots

8. Full-day coverage

9. Engagement photo session

10. Professional editing and retouching

Ready to get started?

Capturing Love: Alex and Jason's Intimate Fall Wedding at the Depot Center

Traditional weddings can often be overwhelming with large bridal parties and extravagant details, leaving couples longing for a more intimate and meaningful experience.

Many couples feel overwhelmed by the pressure to conform to traditional wedding expectations, including large bridal parties and extravagant ceremonies, which can detract from the intimacy and authenticity of their special day.

Alex and Jason opted for a small, intimate wedding at the Depot Center in Livingston, embracing the simplicity and beauty of a fall day.

As the leaves painted the landscape in hues of gold and crimson, love was in the air at the Depot Center in Livingston. Against the backdrop of nature's exquisite autumn palette, Alex and Jason exchanged vows in a heartfelt ceremony, surrounded by the serene beauty of the season. And I had the privilege of capturing every tender moment through my lens.

It was a crisp October day, perfect for a cozy and intimate wedding. Unlike traditional weddings bustling with bridesmaids and groomsmen, Alex and Jason chose to keep their celebration simple and focused on the essence of their love for each other.

From the moment I arrived, I could sense the excitement and nervous anticipation in the air. Alex, radiant in a flowing ivory gown, looked every bit the epitome of a blushing bride. Jason, dapper in his tailored suit, awaited his beloved with a mixture of joy and nervousness.

The Depot Center, with its rustic charm and picturesque surroundings, provided the ideal setting for their special day. As the ceremony commenced, the gentle rustle of leaves and the soft whisper of the wind added an ethereal quality to the proceedings, enhancing the intimacy of the moment.

With only a handful of close family and friends in attendance, the focus remained squarely on Alex and Jason as they exchanged heartfelt vows and rings, promising to journey through life together, come what may.

As a photographer, it was a privilege to witness such raw and genuine emotion. Every smile, every tear, and every stolen glance spoke volumes about the depth of their love and commitment.

After the ceremony, we took advantage of the golden hour light to capture some breathtaking portraits amidst the stunning fall foliage. Against nature's canvas, Alex and Jason's love shone brightly, illuminating the surroundings with warmth and happiness.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, signaling the end of a magical day, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to document such a beautiful love story. Alex and Jason's wedding was a testament to the fact that sometimes, all you need is each other and a beautiful fall day to create memories that last a lifetime.

As I packed up my camera gear and bid farewell to the newlyweds, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that I had played a small part in preserving their love story for generations to come. Here's to Alex and Jason, may your journey together be filled with endless love, laughter, and countless cherished moments.

Your love story deserves to be captured in its purest form, free from distractions and extravagance. Let us immortalize your special day with intimate and heartfelt photography.

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About Alyssa

Embarking on my photography journey at the age of 14, I am a dedicated wedding, family, and commercial photographer based in Bozeman, Montana, with a reach that knows no bounds. My commitment is to offer unparalleled service and deliver top-quality images, preserving every treasured moment of your significant moments. With a deep passion for creating unforgettable wedding memories, I am driven to capture the very essence of your unique love story, showcasing both your personality and the enchantment of your chosen backdrop. From rustic mountain weddings to intimate secluded elopements, I am eager to collaborate and produce stunning images that stand the test of time.

Want to see how we can transform your wedding memories?

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Benefits You Can Expect:

Authenticity: We focus on capturing genuine emotions and candid moments, ensuring your photos reflect the true essence of your love.

Intimacy: With a small, intimate wedding, you can cherish moments with your partner without the distractions of a large crowd.

Timelessness: Our photos are timeless, allowing you to relive your special day for years to come.

HOW IT WORKS

Step 1: Consultation:

We'll discuss your vision for your wedding day and how we can bring it to life through photography.

Step 2: Capture:

On the day of your wedding, we'll be there to document every moment, ensuring nothing is missed.

Step 3: Delivery:

Sit back, relax, and await the delivery of your stunning wedding photos, ready to be treasured for a lifetime. Photos will be delivery within 2 - 4 weeks

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Feature 10 List: Here’s What You’ll Get:

1. Personalized consultation to discuss your vision.

2. Full-day or part -day coverage of your wedding day.

3. High-resolution digital images.

4. Professionally edited photos.

5. Online gallery for easy sharing with friends and family.

6. Add on options available.

7. Fast turnaround time for photo delivery.

8. Option for custom photo albums.

9. Access to a private client portal for communication and updates.

10. Exceptional customer service from start to finish.

Ready to get started? Book your tour today!

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! 🌟💐

Capturing Love: Austen & Behnam's Journey from Serendipity to Forever, - Love Lane Barn - Bozeman, MT

In the late days of May, amidst the beauty of a local hiking trail, Austen and Behnam's paths crossed. Despite their disbelief in love at first sight, there was an undeniable connection between them - laughter flowed easily, and hearts synced effortlessly.

Their love story unfolded swiftly, and before they knew it, they were officially dating. Fast forward to September 23rd, 2023, where Love Lane Barn in Bozeman, MT, witnessed the culmination of their love as they exchanged vows.

As fate would have it, I had the honor of photographing their special day. Surrounded by rustic charm and loved ones, Austen and Behnam embarked on their journey together with hearts full of hope and joy.

Their story reminds us that love has a way of finding us when we least expect it. Here's to Austen and Behnam, whose serendipitous encounter blossomed into a lifetime of love and happiness.

"A Winter Wonderland Wedding: Photographing Joe and Tanya's Big Day in West Yellowstone"

Photographing a wedding is always a special and unique experience, but when you're tasked with capturing a wedding in the heart of winter in West Yellowstone, Montana, it becomes even more exceptional. I was fortunate enough to be the wedding photographer for Joe and Tanya, who had traveled all the way from Billing, MT, to celebrate their special day in a winter wonderland.

The wedding was held at an Airbnb in West Yellowstone, MT, which was nestled in a beautiful forested area. The Airbnb was surrounded by three to five feet of snow, which made for a picturesque and breathtaking backdrop for the wedding photos.

The bride and groom, Joe and Tanya, were an absolute pleasure to work with. Despite the cold and snowy weather, they were filled with joy and excitement as they prepared for their special day. Tanya looked stunning in her white gown, while Joe looked dapper in his black tuxedo.

As the ceremony began, I was able to capture the couple's special moments, as well as the reactions of their guests, using a combination of candid and posed shots.

The wedding reception was held inside the Airbnb, which was beautifully decorated with winter-themed decorations. The intimate setting provided the perfect opportunity for me to capture candid moments of the couple and their guests enjoying the festivities.

In the end, the day was an absolute success. Joe and Tanya were thrilled with the photos and appreciated the unique and special way that we captured their winter wedding. As a photographer, it was a joy to work with such a lovely couple and to capture their special day in such a breathtaking location.

In conclusion, photographing a wedding in West Yellowstone, MT, in the heart of winter was a truly unique and unforgettable experience. The stunning snow-covered landscape provided a breathtaking backdrop for the wedding photos, while the warm and friendly couple made my job as a photographer a true pleasure. I wish Joe and Tanya all the best for their future together, and I hope that the photos will serve as a lasting reminder of their magical winter wedding day.

Livingston - engagement Photographer: Chico Hot Spring - Justin + Stefanie

Happy Almost Valentine’s Day

This engagement session is just oozing with cuteness overload! Justin and Stefanie got engaged at Fairy Lake (what a wonderful place to propose!) They were visiting Bozeman that weekend from their hometown of Fergus Fall, MN. Justin contacted me about getting engagement pictures done and where I would recommend them, Chico Hot Springs, of course! What a fantastic couple and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to serve great clients.

Photographer: Alyssa Johnson Photography

“True love stories never have endings.” - Richard Bach

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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