Welcome to Rachael Elana Photography! I’m a Denver and NYC—based lifestyle and destination wedding photographer specializing in creating authentic, intimate images documenting life’s special moments. As the granddaughter of a ballet dancer and watercolor painter, I spent my childhood painting and dancing—these influences bring a unique artist's eye to my images.

Artists aren’t particularly known for their organizational skills, but with ten years of experience in event planning, I break that mold. This means I come prepared with timelines, shot lists, and will happily collaborate with as many family members or vendors to ensure worry-free, well-timed, and enjoyable photo coverage of your elopement, surprise party, wedding, b’nai mitzvah, or baptism.

I seek to capture the beauty and joy in everyone I have the pleasure of photographing while making my sessions fun, relaxed, and calm. Many of my clients have become close friends.

My family sessions feel like playdates where we throw leaves, blow bubbles, or go flower-picking. I travel domestically and internationally for weddings and project-based assignments. I am conversational in French and fluent in smiling and hand gestures, and have worked with many non-English speaking clients.

Some fun facts…

  1. I’m a total bookworm and love independent bookstores

  2. I moved to Denver in 2021 and am in love with the mountains!

  3. I’m a big traveler and plan vacations around destination weddings

  4. Absolutely love dogs! Want to include them in your photos? Yes, please!

  5. I’m an artist first—my background is in studio art.

    Want to learn more? Check out my blog and activism work!