Some of the best sessions in Yosemite happen right after a storm, and Vanessa and Josh’s engagement session was the perfect reminder of that! The day before their shoot, Yosemite was hit with stormy weather, which left behind dramatic clouds, fresh snow on the ground, and some of the moodiest spring scenery imaginable. As a Yosemite photographer, this was one of my favorite conditions to photograph in. It was beautiful!

If you’re planning engagement photos in Yosemite, this session is proof that a cloudy spring Yosemite engagement session is not something to fear. They often create some of the most beautiful conditions possible!

Sunrise at Tunnel View After a Yosemite Storm

We started Vanessa and Josh’s session at Tunnel View right before sunrise. Even though it was spring, the air was still cold from the storm, and patches of snow lined the overlooks and trees. Low clouds moved through the valley and were so cool to see.

Vanessa and Josh originally told me they were a little shy in front of the camera and wanted their photos to feel natural instead of overly posed. They wanted scenic portraits mixed with candid moments where they could just interact normally together. So, instead of forcing anything, we focused on movement, conversation, and letting them settle into the experience together.

Some of my favorite moments happened when they forgot about the camera completely. I loved capturing photos of them laughing while walking together, looking out at the valley, and sharing quiet little reactions between photos.

Why Overcast Weather Works So Well in Yosemite

I talk about this a lot with couples, but overcast weather is honestly incredible for Yosemite sessions. Bright sun can be harsh in the valley, especially once the day gets going. Cloud cover softens everything and allows the scenery to really stand out without harsh shadows or squinting.

After storms, Yosemite also tends to feel even more dramatic! The clouds wrap around the granite cliffs and the waterfalls are flowing more. Spring storms especially create some of the most beautiful conditions of the entire year.

Exploring Yosemite Valley Together

After Tunnel View, we explored a few more spots throughout Yosemite Valley including Swinging Bridge, Cook’s Meadow, Valley View, and one of my favorite quieter river locations.

Each stop felt completely different because of the changing weather and light. Some areas were filled with soft fog while others opened up to dramatic mountain views. Yosemite changes constantly after storms, which makes sessions like this feel so unique.

Vanessa and Josh were so easy and fun to photograph. Once they relaxed into the session, their personalities came through naturally. They spent most of the morning joking with each other, talking, and laughing between locations.

Their story honestly fits that energy too. They originally met at a club while working for the same company at different sites. They connected that night and added each other on social media, but didn’t really start talking until a year later. They connected over fitness, nursing, life, and eventually just never stopped talking.

Hearing stories like that always makes sessions feel more personal because you can see those dynamics show up naturally in how couples interact with each other! I really enjoyed my time with these two.

Don’t Be Afraid of Weather During Your Yosemite Session

I think a lot of couples worry when they see clouds or storms in the forecast for Yosemite, but sessions like this are exactly why flexibility matters more than perfect weather. Some of the most stunning conditions happen immediately after storms pass through the park.

The combination of dramatic skies, soft light, fresh snow, and fewer crowds created such an incredible backdrop for Vanessa and Josh’s engagement photos. The weather became part of the experience instead of something working against it.

If you’re planning your own Yosemite engagement session, don’t stress too much about chasing perfectly sunny conditions. A cloudy spring Yosemite engagement session is still beautiful! If you want to learn more about Yosemite weather conditions, be sure to check out my blog post on Yosemite weather for more about this!

Planning Your Own Yosemite Engagement Session?

I help couples plan sessions that feel relaxed and natural from start to finish. My approach is always centered around experience first! I guide couples through locations, timing, lighting, and weather so the session feels easy instead of stressful. My goal is always to create an experience where you actually enjoy being together in Yosemite! Get in touch today to begin planning your session.