Chris Werner Photography

02/07/2026

This session didn’t start in the lake. It just ended there 🌊

These two were in town for wedding planning, so we carved out time for an engagement session while they were here.

We started on a quiet stretch of shoreline, talked through ideas, followed the light, and went from there.

When it became clear they were up for a little adventure, we leaned into it — wading into the lake, climbing onto granite boulders, and finishing the session waist-deep in the water.

I care a lot about reading the people in front of my camera and meeting them where they are. Some couples want playful, some want quiet, some want a little romance — often it’s a mix of all three.

My job is to create space for that, so you can relax, be yourselves, and walk away with images that actually feel like you.

12/19/2025

Some love stories start far from home 🌍✈️

This couple met overseas and brought their closest friends and family back to the Sierra Nevada for their wedding at Sugar Bowl Ski Resort’s lakeside venue.

I loved capturing these moments: candid expressions during the vows, their exhilaration as they exited the ceremony, and the energy of the dance floor lit only by string lights. I’m grateful they trusted me to capture it in my own style- honest, raw, unfiltered, and real.

📸 Check out the blog for more from this Lake Mary wedding.

12/11/2025

It’s wild- I can’t believe how many proposals I photographed this year! Each one takes careful planning, so it’s especially satisfying when the photos capture all the genuine emotions.

This was a Tahoe proposal with truly stunning views. 🏔️🍾🥂

I photographed this couple on a warm summer afternoon, capturing everything from the surprise moment on the overlook to a relaxed mini-engagement session along the shoreline.

Every proposal has its own rhythm, and my job is to let it unfold naturally while making sure the light, timing, and scenery all line up.

He popped the question, she said yes, and we spent a little extra time celebrating with champagne and capturing candid moments against the lake and mountains.

Thinking about proposing in Tahoe? I can help you plan the logistics and find the best locations for photos that actually capture the moment.

12/09/2025

First-ever tent reception on the Everline Resort golf course!

This summer wedding featured a unique setup at the venue: a clear-top, candle-lit tent on the golf course, 200+ guests, and a live band keeping the celebration lively.

I focused on capturing real moments throughout the day, from quiet prep shots to candid reactions during the ceremony, and the details that made this day memorable.

Working with the venue team to document this new setup was a highlight. Huge thanks to the talented vendors and planners who made this day run so smoothly and brought everything together beautifully!

11/20/2025

One of the best parts of a Lake Tahoe proposal is the thought and care that goes into it, especially when it’s a surprise.

For a proposal photographer, docks have limited lines of sight and present some unique challenges. In the mountains, timing, light, and location make all the difference.

That’s why extra preparation went into this proposal.

As he popped the big 💍 question, I captured their genuine reactions, candid joy, and a few scenic portraits along the dock and shoreline.

If you’re thinking about proposing in Lake Tahoe, I can help you plan a proposal that’s authentic, memorable, and beautiful.

And if you feel like getting your feet wet, even better!

11/18/2025

These two wanted an engagement session that felt like them, not a staged production. Just the lake, the boat, and whatever unfolded once we left the dock.

We began on the Tahoe shoreline and then headed out on a classic wooden HackerCraft. Boat sessions bring their own mix of bright light, moving angles, and wind that makes its own decisions.

In my view, that’s exactly why they work. The unpredictable moments tend to be the ones that feel the most true.

They relaxed into the setting right away. All I had to do was stay present and follow their energy.

If you want an engagement session that feels natural instead of posed, this is what that approach looks like on Lake Tahoe.

05/07/2025

04/12/2025

Turn Down For What – Part 2

Because one post couldn’t contain all the party energy.

It’s Friday again and I’m back in the mix with more dance floor mayhem—feet flying, drinks spilling, and fun levels off the charts.

Every wedding party is different, but when the music hits just right, magic happens. And I’ll be there, dodging elbows, confetti, and the flying drops of your favorite mixer to get the shot.

More from my collection of unforgettable nights, including a few blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moves that made the edit.

03/21/2025

This local couple reached out to me for outdoor portraits in the Lake Tahoe area. We discussed several locations, from scenic lakeshores to breathtaking mountain vistas.

Drawing on my years of experience as a wedding and portrait photographer in the region, I recommended some of the best photo spots in Lake Tahoe.

With dramatic peaks, golden sunset light, and stunning views, Donner Summit was the perfect setting.

05/08/2024

Lake Tahoe threw us a curveball with these icy winds! ❄️

Thankfully, love found a way (and a slightly less windy spot ). Huge congrats to these two on their engagement!

Her “yes” was filled with so much joy, and it’s clear their love is built to weather any storm. Here’s to a lifetime of laughter, adventures, and unwavering devotion.

05/04/2024

Looking back on this first dance at V. Sattui Winery on a warm September evening.

Even though the dance floor was inside, this fun couple opted for a twirl under the stars.

As the sun dipped below the horizon and the string lights cast a warm glow, their song came on, and the first dance began. To capture this twilight scene, I knew I needed a wider perspective.

So, I climbed the second set of stairs, balancing carefully on the railing (don’t worry, safety first!).

This vantage point allowed me to frame the entire scene - the beautiful venue, the guests, and the couple lost in their own world.

This photo earned a Gold Medallion Award from the Wedding Photojournalist Association (huge honor!)

04/16/2024

Before the last snowflakes vanish, I wanted to share a glimpse from a truly heartwarming surprise proposal I photographed recently.

This adventurous couple loves hiking the trails at Northstar Resort during their summer visits. Naturally, our initial plan was to capture this moment on their favorite section of the Tomkins Memorial Trail (T.M.T.).

Mountain weather can be unpredictable, however. A snowstorm rolled through just before their trip, making their favorite area inaccessible. My scouting mission confirmed this – deep snow and no clear trail.

Knowing their love for scenic locations, I was able to suggest an alternative spot – easily accessible, with beautiful views of Northstar, and guaranteed privacy for this special moment.

These are some of my favorite images- I especially love the black and white edits!

As a wedding photographer who’s witnessed many proposals lately, winter offers a unique opportunity for couples seeking a dramatic backdrop of snow-capped peaks and crisp mountain air.

Stay tuned for more winter proposal inspiration coming soon! ❄️