HI, I’M Kate,
or Katie, I go by both
Not just a photographer, a visual storyteller for adventure-seeking souls
A little about me
Couples choosing The Wild Within Us aren’t just booking a photography service—they’re stepping into an experience crafted by someone who lives and breathes this place. Zion is my home. I have been through so many versions of myself here in the last 11 years, every version held so deeply by this canyon. That connection is reflects in the images we create together; your portal to a deeper, richer experience.
My approach goes beyond capturing beautiful images; I create space for couples to slow down, connect with the land, and fully immerse themselves in the significance of their commitment. As a Zion local, I offer expert guidance on everything from the best ceremony locations to national park permits, trusted vendors, lodging, and curated excursions. My clients aren’t just planning a wedding—they’re stepping into a profound, once-in-a-lifetime experience, one where they feel seen, cared for, and deeply connected to the earth and each other.
With a focus on luxury, intention, and seamless execution, I help couples craft an elopement that is both effortlessly beautiful and intentional. Whether they seek a quiet canyon ceremony at sunrise, an intimate gathering under the vast desert sky, or a day of adventure that balances reverence with lighthearted joy, I ensure your wedding is more than just a moment—it’s a living, breathing ritual, captured in timeless heirlooms they’ll cherish forever.
Our zion elopement album
Mukuntuweap, the place we call home;
where our love story started.
We met at the Springdale Town Park, fell in love exploring Zion, made our first home here and raised our beautiful dog, Juniper, walking
around town and swimming in the Virgin River.
So, it wasn't really a question for us on where we wanted to say out vows... we eloped on Tabernacle Dome and had our version of a traditional wedding a few days later on the Dalton Wash with a view of the West Temple.
It was a blessing to have our families meet and celebrate our love in this sacred place.
click to Learn about my Philosophy and what inspired me to become a photographer.
BEHIND THE LENS
mY PHILOSOPHY
"There are few things that inspire and excite me more than photography!"
I first picked up a *disposal camera* when I was 5 years old. My next camera was a Nikon film camera when I was 13. I took some film classes in high school but was quickly distracted by sports.
After college, in 2011, life took me to work in Alaska at my first National Park, Denali. I bought a Sony Cyber-Shot pocket cam and really fell in love with seeing life through a lens.
That same summer, I picked up my first digital camera on a short trip back to Louisiana.The first photo I ever took was of my nephew right after he was born. I then spent the rest of the summer taking landscape and wildlife photos in Alasksa.
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Rain, hail or shine, I won’t miss a beat
As the first light touches Zion’s cliffs, I arrive—camera in hand, heart fully present, and an extra coffee fueling my excitement. This isn’t just another wedding; it’s the beginning of something sacred, and I’m here to guide, document, and ensure the day flows effortlessly.
From the quiet moments of getting ready—the deep breath before stepping into your dress, the groom’s laughter with his best man—to the powerful stillness of your vows, I capture the raw beauty of your experience. I move between observer and storyteller, blending into the background when needed, stepping forward when you need gentle direction. No stiff poses, just authentic, effortless moments.
With years of experience, I know how fast the day moves. I’ll help you slow down, take it in, and stay fully present. Whether you’re exchanging vows on a windswept canyon rim or dancing under desert stars, I document every detail—the flicker of candlelight, the way your partner looks at you, the quiet magic in between.
At the heart of it all, my role isn’t just to take photos; it’s to hold space. To make sure you feel at home, grounded, and deeply connected—to each other, to the land, and to the ritual of beginning forever.
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SWEET NOTHINGS
michael and Val
We had engagement photos taken throughout Zion park. The experience was OFF THE CHARTS!!! Katie was spontaneous, creative and professional. She customized every step of our photo shoot to capture the essence of our romantic passion and love for adventure. Our photos came out AMAZING! Five Stars is not enough, because our biggest problem was choosing what to print amongst the countless shots we LOVED. My only regret, is that Val and I did not fly her to Phoenix to also do our wedding. Our Sincere and Enthusiastic thanks to Katie!
anna and Jeff
Booking Wild Within Us/Katie was the best decision we made for our elopement. After our initial Zoom call we knew we found a great match. Katie helped us build the perfect itinerary to check all our boxes of hiking, being away from a lot of people, and having different spots to perform each part of our special ceremony. I would rebook Katie every time and I cherish the INCREDIBLE photos she was able to capture for us.
kelsey and bridger
Katie, with the Wild Within Us, is the best! We chose Katie to photograph our wedding because of her experience in both landscape and wedding photography. Zion is a crazy beautiful place, and we want that to be represented in our photographs. She is able to capture that beauty while also capturing beautiful, genuine moments between you and your loved ones. Her talent speaks for itself in her photos, but bonus - she is just a true gem to work with! I would recommend the Wild Within Us a million times over.
Hassan and Sid
Katie offered much more than photos. From the beginning, she listened to us and adapted to what we were looking for. Picnic, ceremony, surprises, meditation, views - she helped make each part better than we could have imagined. She knows the Zion area extremely well and offers that knowledge when setting up the day. I encourage you to trust her and take advantage of her expertise. Don't be afraid to go outside your comfort zone with Katie. She will take good care of you and it will pay off in a truly unforgettable experience. Whether by luck or by fate, we are so glad we found her.
eLEVATING weddings into rituals
—Kappel James Cloninger
"Is learning to be in deep relationship with others possibly the greatest adventure of them all? Is it possibly the deepest, most uncharted wilderness still available? The wilderness of knowing and being known...the adventure of beating your heart for another to see..."