Chelan weddings I’ve photographed
I’ve photographed weddings here, including Emma + Ryan’s at Karma Vineyards (@karmachelan), with the lake spread out behind their ceremony arch and one of the wildest dance floors I’ve ever seen. I’ve also photographed a wedding at another small winery in Chelan and an engagement session for a Chelan couple. Venue names here describe where those weddings took place; I’m an independent photographer and not affiliated with any venue.
Why couples choose Lake Chelan
Lake Chelan sits on the east side of the Cascades, about three hours from Snohomish County over Stevens Pass. The lake stretches roughly fifty miles into the mountains and is one of the deepest in the country, and the water really is that shade of blue.
The valley around Chelan and Manson is wine country, with vineyards running down the hills toward the lake. For photos that means warm light, golden hills, rows of vines and wide-open sky. It’s a completely different look from the green, moody west side, and couples choose it for exactly that.
Light and timing on the dry side
Summer in Chelan is hot and bright. Midday sun is harsh, so I plan portraits for the last hour or two before sunset, when the hills glow and the lake goes calm. Around the summer solstice that means after 8 p.m. A sunset ceremony works beautifully here, and it keeps your guests comfortable too.
Late summer can bring wildfire smoke to central Washington. It doesn’t happen every year, but it’s worth having a plan. Haze can make for soft, dreamy light, and I’ll help you keep an indoor or shaded backup in your timeline. September and early October are lovely here: warm days, cooler evenings and harvest season in the vineyards.
Portrait ideas around the lake
- Between the vines at golden hour, with the lake below.
- Along the shoreline at sunset, when the water turns glassy.
- Up high on the hills above town for a wide view of the valley. We’ll pick a spot that fits your schedule and your shoes.
- A boat or dock portrait if your venue is on the water.
How a Chelan wedding works with me
For a wedding this far from home, I plan to arrive the day before so I’m rested, early and already familiar with your venue’s light. That’s why Chelan weddings include a travel fee for mileage and lodging. Your quote lists it before you book.
What’s included
Wedding collections start at $4,750. Every collection includes all-day coverage of six to twelve hours, your choice of a complimentary engagement session or rehearsal dinner coverage, three hours of a second shooter and a high-resolution online gallery. Prints and packages are available. See the full details on the investment page.
Travel fee
Weddings outside the Puget Sound area include a travel fee. It covers getting there, by car or by plane, and lodging when the day calls for an overnight stay. You’ll see it itemized in your quote before you book, so there are no surprises. Details are on the travel weddings page.
Questions
Is there a travel fee for Lake Chelan?
Yes. Chelan weddings include a travel fee that covers mileage and an overnight stay. It’s itemized in your quote so you know the full cost before you book.
Will you photograph our welcome party or rehearsal in Chelan?
Every wedding collection includes your choice of an engagement session or rehearsal dinner coverage. If you choose rehearsal coverage, it pairs perfectly with arriving the day before.
Do you also travel to Wenatchee, Manson and Leavenworth?
Yes. I photograph weddings across central Washington. See the Leavenworth page for more.
Getting married somewhere else?
I photograph weddings all over Snohomish County and Washington, and I’m happy to travel.