for non-traditional souls, couples with a global perspective and those who value beautifully curated experiences.
An Ode to Intimate Weddings,
Wild Landscapes & Cinematic Beauty
Michigan elopements photographer documenting love stories from beach villas of Sleeping Bear Dunes to forests of Pictured Rocks and beyond - Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Traverse City, Marquette and anywhere your adventure takes you.
art led, memory driven.
1.
michigan elopement photographer: nostalgic inspirations
using classical references and sentiment to create images that feel lived-in rather than staged.
2.
intimate.
where photographs begin to breathe and stories become deeply human.
i am yana, your michigan elopement photographer
TRAVELING WORLDWIDE for intimate weddings
As an expert in Michigan elopements and small weddings
I help couples who don’t want a big wedding production plan a meaningful, artfully documented day, with guidance on locations, timelines, and logistics so you don’t have to figure it out alone.
I value:
Privacy over performance
Meaning over tradition
Nature over spectacle
Flexibility over perfection
In the past decade, I have been working through photography to create an inclusive brand that elevates diversity, cherishes unorthodox styles and values experiences over things.
Welcome, you've found your place.
my approach is simple: I hold space with empathy, patience, and human sensitivity.
As a Michigan elopement photographer:
I’m good with nervous people
Most couples tell me some version of: “We’re awkward,” “We hate being photographed,” or “This makes us anxious.” That’s normal and honestly, expected. I don’t throw you into stiff poses or tell you to “act natural.” I talk you through what’s happening, give clear direction when you want it, and space when you don’t. You’ll always know what your hands are doing, where to stand, and what’s coming next without it ever feeling forced or performative. The goal isn’t to turn you into models. It’s to help you feel like yourselves.
I handle awkward moments so you don’t have to
Silences happen. People don’t know where to stand. Someone cracks a joke that doesn’t land. When things feel awkward, I don’t make it bigger, I smooth it out. I redirect gently, keep things moving, and take pressure off you so you don’t feel like you’re “doing it wrong.” You don’t need to know how to be photographed. That’s my job.
I stay calm when plans change
Michigan weather doesn’t care about timelines and neither do ferries, bugs, wind, or clouds rolling in off the lake. As a Michigan elopement photographer, when things don’t go to plan, I don’t panic or rush you. I adapt. I adjust timelines, suggest backups, and keep the focus on what actually matters: you having a meaningful, grounded experience.
Most couples tell me afterward that the moments they worried about the most ended up being their favorites.
I know when to step in and when to disappear
I’m present when you need guidance and invisible when you don’t. I’ll help with direction, timing, and transitions so things feel smooth, but I won’t hover, interrupt, or turn your day into a photoshoot. I pay attention to energy, emotions, and when it’s better to let a moment unfold naturally. That balance is intentional.
Your wedding day should feel lived-in, not documented at the expense of experiencing it. What this really means for you is that you don’t have to:
- Perform
- Know what you’re doing
- Have everything figured out
- Or be “good” at being photographed
You just get to show up as you are and trust that I’ve got the rest.
More than documentation — thoughtful guidance for calm, intentional Michigan elopements.
DOCUMENTARY & CANDID
Your story deserves more than templates and you certainly don’t need your wedding to be a spectacle.
You are here, because you envisioned working with a Michigan elopement photographer who would capture the true essence of your special day. I take the time to understand your vision, because we both know that you’re not interested in copying others, and neither am I.
I am here to support you with over a decade of experience documenting wedding celebrations in various lighting situations, landscapes and conditions, while honing on my flexibility and fine arts education.
I specialize in focusing on the feelings, the laughter, and the one-of-a-kind connection between you two. From choosing the perfect location to planning a timeline that suits your vibe, I’m with you every step of the way. Let’s create a day that’s all about you. No stress, no trends, no drama, just memories that will last a lifetime.
investment
WEEKDAY, MULTI-DAY AND OFF SEASON PRICING AVAILABLE. LIMITED DATES EACH MONTH.
Engagements and couple sessions: Whether you want to keep it intimate and create a beautiful authentic experience in your home in Ann Arbor, road trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes or perhaps fly to Yosemite for the weekend and hike up El Capitan! I travel to places near and far and I'll be stoked to experience this adventure with you. Investment for local sessions in Ann Arbor and Detroit starts at $599.
Intimate elopement and wedding photography packages start at 3 hours for weekday packages and 5 hours for weekend packages. As a Michigan elopement photographer I'll work with you to create a tailored experience that perfectly fits your vision for your wedding day. Whether you plan to marry in a unique botanical venue or on the top of the mountain, I'll capture your day in timeless candid imagery. Investment starts at $2,999.
10/10 Yana is the nicest photographer you will ever meet, and her talent is unmatched.
- vanessa & brandon
Our wedding was a dream, everything felt so flawless and easy and once we received our sneak peaks, I was in awe. Every aspect of the day was captured and I was brought to tears when thinking back on the day.
