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Yosemite Photography
Photography and Yosemite National Park’s beautiful landscapes have gone hand in hand since the mid-1800s when photographers like Charles Weed and Carleton Watkins packed large-format cameras with glass plates into Yosemite Valley on mules. Their images were pivotal in sharing and ultimately protecting this landscape for future generations.
Today, modern photographers continue to flock to Yosemite to share its beauty with the world, to preserve memories of friends and families, and to make inspiring art. Amazing photographs lurk around every corner and turn in the trail. There is beauty underfoot in the form of delicate wildflowers and overhead in tall forests and white granite cliffs. Here are some tips on where to get the best photos in Yosemite.
Iconic Yosemite Photography Locations
Surrounded by all of these possibilities, it can be hard to know where to begin looking for a place to shoot. To get started, check out our list of Top 10 Places to Get the Shot. These are famous locations, with iconic views that have mesmerized people for decades. If you’re looking for pictures that are unmistakably Yosemite, this is your list. Remember to keep your camera handy on your way to Yosemite too. For example, if you travel up the Merced River along Highway 140, keep your eyes open for some of the beautiful scenes along the river and near El Portal.
Many Yosemite snapshots show the landscape’s beauty under a cloudless blue sky. This is the scene that will greet most summer-time visitors. It makes for beautiful hiking weather and bright, sparkling images. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a truly unique Yosemite shot be sure to plan a trip for late fall, winter, or early spring. Serious photographers delight in the cloudy forecasts that accompany these seasons. They are looking for those ephemeral bursts of light, wisps of fog swirling through the trees in the valley, and the moody images that come with orange and pink clouds at sunset or sunrise.
During particular moments in Nature’s regular rhythm of changing light and flowing water, everything comes together to create the most mystical and unique opportunities for photographers. And when they happen regularly, photographers from around the world travel to Yosemite for the chance to capture these unique moments.
Yosemite is a big place, and with so many beautiful locations and the ever-changing nature of the light, it can be helpful to have someone show you around. While there are many photographers from far away eager to lead trips to Yosemite, consider the advantage of spending that time with a truly local photographer – one that has been exploring this landscape during every spare moment for years, watching the light change with the seasons and developing an intimate knowledge of the park.
What are your favorite locations and tips for Yosemite photography? There’s a vibrant community at YosemiteNation on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Make sure you swing by for more photographic inspiration and be sure to share your favorite photos as well. We hope to see you there!
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With views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley this epic spot is well-worth the trek. Here`s to finding the perfect front row seat for an awe-inspiring Yosemite sunset.
Reel by: @karajaxx
Summer 2025 temporary vehicle reservations are available and easy to obtain -- grab one fast before they`re gone! A vehicle reservation is required to enter Yosemite from 6 AM to 2 PM every day from June 15 – Aug. 15, and on Labor Day Weekend, Aug. 30 – Sept. 1. There are also other ways to access the park - find out more at the link in our profile.
Summers are great for backpacking Yosemite`s high country. Seen here: camping under the stars at Upper Cathedral Lake.
Pro tip: after your backcountry trek, treat yourself to a night or two in a comfy hotel or lodge to wash up, rest up, and maybe enjoy a hot tub soak or spa day... you`ve earned it!
Photos by: @andosfauxtos
Summer 2025 temporary vehicle reservations are available and easy to obtain -- grab one fast before they`re gone! A vehicle reservation is required to enter Yosemite from 6 AM to 2 PM every day from June 15 – Aug. 15, and on Labor Day Weekend, Aug. 30 – Sept. 1. There are also other ways to access the park - find out more at the link in our profile.
Sometimes the quiet moments in Yosemite are the most unforgettable, like this peaceful glimpse of the sun peeking out from behind Half Dome, captured by: @kseniya_landina.
Summer 2025 temporary vehicle reservations are available and easy to obtain -- grab one fast before they`re gone! A vehicle reservation is required to enter Yosemite from 6 AM to 2 PM every day from June 15 – Aug. 15, and on Labor Day Weekend, Aug. 30 – Sept. 1. There are also other ways to access the park - find out more at the link in our profile.
Looking back at early summer views from Glacier Point. When Glacier Point Road is open, this easy-to-access spot is a must-see when visiting Yosemite! And in the off season, Glacier Point can be accessed via hiking the Four Mile Trail.
Reel by: @barkha__kapoor
Summer 2025 temporary vehicle reservations are available and easy to obtain -- grab one fast before they`re gone! A vehicle reservation is required to enter Yosemite from 6 AM to 2 PM every day from June 15 – Aug. 15, and on Labor Day Weekend, Aug. 30 – Sept. 1. There are also other ways to access the park - find out more at the link in our profile.
A beautiful morning along the Merced River with an epic El Capitan backdrop. Sometimes a relaxing stroll around Yosemite Valley is the best way to start the day.
Reel by: @the.solofoto
Summer 2025 temporary vehicle reservations are available and easy to obtain -- grab one fast before they`re gone! A vehicle reservation is required to enter Yosemite from 6 AM to 2 PM every day from June 15 – Aug. 15, and on Labor Day Weekend, Aug. 30 – Sept. 1. There are also other ways to access the park - find out more at the link in our profile.