From personal experience, I know how essential it is to feel a genuine connection with your wedding photographer. When you trust your photographer and feel at ease with them, it allows you to truly be present and enjoy every moment of your day. As your photographer, I believe my role goes far beyond simply capturing beautiful images — it’s about showing up to serve you, to celebrate your love, and to support you every step of the way.
That's why I prioritize building a meaningful relationship with my couples long before your wedding day. I want to be more than just "the photographer" — I want to be a friend you can count on, someone who understands your vision and makes the entire experience feel effortless and fun. My goal is to ensure that you feel comfortable, relaxed, and fully immersed in the magic of your day, knowing that I’m there to document it with heart and care.
When your favorite people come together to celebrate your love in a destination that’s close to your heart, true magic happens. I wholeheartedly believe that the location of your wedding is one of the most powerful elements of your day — it sets the tone for your entire celebration. So choose a place that excites you, that speaks to your soul, because the right destination will elevate your experience and create lasting memories that you'll cherish forever.
Wherever you decide, know this: I’m not just there to capture the moments — I’m there for the adventure, ready to help you make it unforgettable.
One of the core values of my work is artfully preserving and telling your unique love story. When you look back at your wedding photos, I want you to feel as though you've stepped into a curated gallery of your most cherished moments — a collection of memories that evoke joy, nostalgia, and a deep connection to the day you said "I do." Every image is crafted with intention to not only capture the moments, but to tell the story of your love, your journey, and the emotions that made your wedding day truly unforgettable.
Here to Serve
Hi, I’m Jayla, a luxury wedding photographer based in the U.S., specializing in luxury destination weddings and intimate celebrations. I believe that every wedding should be a reflection of your unique love story, celebrated in a breathtaking location that makes your heart soar, surrounded by those who mean the most to you.
As a passionate luxury wedding photographer, my mission is to capture your special day through intentional artistry, turning moments into timeless memories. I take pride in connecting deeply with my clients, ensuring you feel seen, heard, and truly loved throughout the entire process. For me, being your photographer is more than just taking beautiful photos; it’s about serving you and crafting an experience that resonates with your heart.
Thank you for being here. I can’t wait to hear your story and create something extraordinary together!
Where luxury meets adventure
about me
Artistry Inspired by Adventure
Some find their inspiration from fashion, others from artwork but for me, I find my inspiration from adventure. When I’m not capturing love stories, you can find me hiking to the tops of mountains, squeezing my way through slot canyons, swimming in a lake, and ultimately finding adventure everywhere I can. Soaking in the beauty of nature on these adventures fills my heart to the brim. From the waves of color in sandstone canyons to the sun glistening off the water to the rays of first light filling in the mountain valleys; I am always left in awe of creation’s raw beauty. Living a life full of adventure, inspired by the incredible art of creation has ultimately inspired me to live a life of creating for my Creator.
view my most recent work!
we're a good fit if...
connection
artistry
present
A genuine connection with your wedding photographer is essential to feeling relaxed and fully present on your special day. If you value trust, comfort, and a photographer who truly sees and celebrates your unique love story, we’ll be the perfect fit to work together.
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who values artistry and storytelling, we might be the perfect fit. I approach each wedding with a creative eye, blending candid moments with thoughtfully composed portraits to craft images that feel both authentic and timeless. Your wedding day is a work of art, and my goal is to document it in a way that reflects your unique love story with beauty and intention.
If you believe your wedding day is about being fully present and celebrating your love—not just about the photos—we might be the perfect fit. I prioritize capturing the moments as they naturally unfold, so you can focus on what truly matters: the joy, connection, and meaning of your day.
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I think we'd be a great fit, let's talk!
your wedding isn't a photoshoot, it's a celebration
If you dream of a wedding day filled with authentic, heartfelt moments rather than constant posing, we’re a perfect match. As your wedding photographer, my goal is to capture your wedding day naturally, allowing you to be fully present in every incredible moment. While I’ll guide you for those special portraits, my priority is to let you savor each second without the pressure of a staged photoshoot. Your wedding should be about creating lasting memories, not just photos, and I’m here to capture its beauty in a way that feels genuine and timeless.
this is what i want, let's connect!
"You have really outdone yourself - these pictures are incredible. There are so many shots that captured this feeling of intimacy and, wow, they really took my breath away. Devin and I literally gasped, “wooow,” out loud a few times. Anyways, you’re a genius - just had to tell you."
- Katie & Devin
Devin and I literally gasped...
my approach
When it comes to my approach as a wedding photographer, I blend documentary and editorial styles with a deep commitment to artistry to capture your love story in its truest form. I take a “fly on the wall” approach, allowing moments to unfold naturally and capturing the raw, unfiltered emotions of your day. Then when it comes to portraits, Rather than relying on traditional poses, I use gentle prompts to inspire authentic interactions, allowing your connection to come alive in each frame. This balance of artistic observation and subtle guidance creates images that feel both spontaneous and elegantly refined, preserving the essence of your celebration with timeless artistry.
directing vs. posing
In my editing, I’m inspired by the timeless beauty of film photography. I strive for a soft, classic look that enhances each image’s natural tones, evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth. I want you to feel the same sentiment I experience when flipping through my grandparents' old photographs—a feeling of timeless connection to moments preserved forever. My goal is to deliver images that will look just as beautiful decades from now, letting you relive these cherished memories with the same vivid emotion.
defining my style
this is exactly what I want!
My why
creating for my creator
Photography has always been more than just an art form for me—it’s a deeply personal way to connect with God and celebrate His creation. Beyond creating beautiful photos for my clients, photography has become a form of worship, allowing me to honor the Creator who designed each of us uniquely and wonderfully.
God has played a central role in my life, shaping my journey and my purpose. As I’ve grown in my faith, I’ve come to see photography as a sacred calling, an opportunity to reflect His love and light in every image I capture. Documenting life’s moments—weddings, love stories, and celebrations—has deepened my connection to Him and to His people.
you are beloved
Through the lens, I’ve learned to see people as He sees them: beloved, cherished, and uniquely designed. Each photo I take is not just an image but a testament to the beauty, worth, and individuality of the person in front of the camera. Photography allows me to capture the essence of their story while honoring the Creator who wrote it.
My mission as a wedding and luxury photographer is rooted in this perspective. I aim to create a supportive, uplifting experience where clients feel loved, valued, and celebrated for who they are. Whether documenting a couple’s vows or the quiet moments shared in between, I strive to capture the beauty of life and love as an act of worship.
The Experience
As a wedding photographer, I believe my role goes far beyond just taking pictures—it's about creating a genuine connection with my clients, making them feel seen, heard, and loved. This connection begins as soon as you inquire. When you reach out, we'll schedule a call to get to know each other, discuss your wedding vision, and explore the dreams you have for your big day. My goal is to make you feel comfortable and excited, ensuring that your wedding photography experience is as personal and memorable as your celebration.
01 | Connection
a step-by-step guide to what it really looks like to work with me
If you choose to add an engagement session, we’ll work together to plan a personalized shoot that truly reflects the essence of your love and the things that matter most to you. Whether it's a romantic outdoor setting or a location that holds special meaning, your engagement photos will capture the unique connection between you and your love. Let’s create stunning images that showcase your love story in a way that feels authentic and meaningful.
02 | the Engagement Session
Two months before your wedding, I’ll send you a detailed questionnaire designed to help me understand your vision for your wedding photos. This questionnaire covers all the important details so I can be fully prepared to document every special moment on your big day. You’ll have plenty of time to fill it out as you get even more excited for the celebration of your love, ensuring your wedding photos perfectly reflect your unique style and vision.
03 | Wedding Questionnaire
2-4 weeks before your wedding, we’ll have a final call to review your completed questionnaire and go over all the essential details for your wedding day. This consultation ensures that we cover everything from timeline to special requests, so I’m fully prepared to capture every moment. My goal is for you to leave this call feeling confident and excited, knowing that I’m ready to serve you and document your wedding day to its fullest.
04 | Pre-Event Consult
The day you’ve been dreaming of is finally here—it's time to celebrate your love! As your wedding photographer, I will be there every step of the way, ready to capture all the special moments while serving you in any way I can. From the first look to the last dance, I’ll document your love story, ensuring every detail is preserved. Let’s put on those party shoes and make unforgettable memories together!
05 | It’s Time to Celebrate
Whether you're extending your stay to continue celebrating with loved ones or heading off on your honeymoon, it’s time to relax and enjoy your destination. While you make more unforgettable memories, you can look forward to receiving a sneak peek of your wedding photos within 24 hours of your big day. Relive the magic of your wedding with a first look at your stunning images, capturing the essence of your celebration.
06 | Enjoy the Destination
learn more about the experience
here to
serve
As your wedding photographer, my role is so much more than just taking beautiful photos. I’m here to provide a full-service experience where you feel truly seen, heard, and valued. From answering every question to advocating for your needs, I’m dedicated to creating a comfortable space for you. When your needs are fully met, you can relax, savor every moment, and celebrate with your loved ones. Your wedding day is all about your love, and I’m here to ensure that every part of it reflects that.
meet your photographer!
no more travel fees!
When you book your wedding photography with me within the contiguous United States, there are no added travel fees. That means one less expense to worry about, so you can focus on planning your perfect day. For destination weddings in Hawaii, Alaska, or international locations, my travel fees are kept to a minimum, covering only flights and necessary visas.
learn more about your investment
my services
As a luxury wedding photographer, I provide an elevated experience that artfully documents your unique love story while allowing you to be fully present on your wedding day. Specializing in intimate destination weddings and grand luxury affairs, I prioritize a seamless, stress-free journey from the moment you reach out. My goal is to serve you with intentional care, ensuring every detail is beautifully captured while you focus on cherishing the moments that matter most.
With a blend of candid storytelling and artistic elegance, I create timeless images that celebrate your love and reflect the beauty of your special day. As your luxury wedding photographer, I make the process effortless, allowing you to relax and fully embrace the magic of your wedding, no matter where in the world it takes you. Average wedding photography investments begin at $9,300.
Starting at $7,600
Weddings
Learn more!
- Erin & Jalen
"These are everything we dreamed of and more."
"Jayla. We are speechless. These are everything we dreamed of and more. You crushed it. The day and the whole trip was such a blur. We're so grateful for all of these to look back on and help jog our memory. We waited to look through these together when Jalen got home from work today and I bawled like a baby the whole way through (especially during Jalen's reaction as I walked down the aisle -- I didn't have a great view of him as I walked down and I was totally bummed out that I missed that tear-jerker moment in real life, so WOW am I thankful to have photos of his reaction. And the ones of our people and puppy in attendance -- SO STINKING SPECIAL). We seriously can't wait to see the rest! Thank you for everything! We are so beyond grateful!"
- Andrea & Kyle
"she IS A TRUE GEM IN THE PHOTOGRAPHY WORLD WHO PUTS EVERY BIT OF HER SOUL INTO HER WORK."
Jayla was absolutely wonderful to work with! My husband and I hired her before our wedding for our engagement photos and, ultimately, for our wedding day. We interviewed several photographers and decided to go with Jayla due to her warm and vibrant personality. She was punctual, professional, friendly, and easy to get along with. She has delivered my absolute favorite photos to reminisce on and somehow perfectly captured our love for each other. Her photos are true reminders of our special day. I have recommended her to several friends already and will continue to recommend her services. Book her while she’s available because she is a true gem in the photography world who puts every bit of her soul into her work.
- Katelyn & Joey
"SHE HAS A GIFT FOR CAPTURING THE EMOTION AND HOW THE DAY REALLY FELT"
"[We] Can’t recommend Westward Up enough! In July Jayla captured our sunrise wedding in Rocky Mountain National Park. I was on the unorganized side of things as a bride so I worried about working out details with a photographer. Jayla made everything so easy. In all areas she was extremely professional, asked so many good questions to get us on track with photos, and met with us beforehand to have a clear plan. The day of the wedding she made the photos so easy by giving clear and easy to understand instructions and prompts. The photos turned out better than we could’ve ever expected. Sometimes I find myself feeling like photos of different events in my life didn’t do the moment justice but that was NOT the case at all with our wedding gallery. She has a gift for capturing the emotion and how the day really felt. 6 months out I still look at our wedding photos every day because I just can’t believe how perfect she captured our love. A few days after our wedding we got tons of sneak peek pictures to reminisce on the day while on our honeymoon which was an awesome bonus. If you’re looking for an amazing photographer JAYLA IS YOUR GIRL!!!"
- Amber & Tanner
"I’ll start by saying; Jayla is the most talented photographer I have ever seen! Hands down. Her work is absolutely phenomenal! What she captures on the camera is stunning. Jayla photographed my husband and I’s wedding in Tulum, and it exceeded all of our wildest dreams. She captured the most pure and magical moments from our special day. we are forever grateful! Not to mention she graciously gave us an amazinggg deal. Not only did she capture our day and love so perfectly, but she also was so helpful on our phone calls with helping me figure out details for the day and what I wanted, she was very laid back, and she helped put me at ease because I knew I could trust her. We loved working with her so much, she is such a fun, adventurous, creative, kind hearted, and wonderful person. I feel like she can sense a couple’s personality and is able to adapt and capture photos in a way that matches and vibes with each couple so well and unique to them. If you ever get the amazing opportunity to have Jayla as your photographer, DO IT!! You will not regret it, she really is one of a kind!"
"WE ARE FOREVER GRATEFUL!"
here to
serve
stories from some of my favorite destinations:
Alex & Aaron’s Yatch Welcome Party
Alex & Aaron’s Cabo Boat Welcome Party was the perfect way for this fun-loving couple to start their weekend celebration. They have this easygoing, yet lively energy, and a yacht party in Cabo was perfect for them. The sun set over the ocean as their friends and family gathered on board, creating the exact vibe they wanted—relaxed but still memorable.It wasn’t about being over-the-top; it was about having a good time with the people they love most, and this setting couldn’t have been more fitting for that.
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A Dreamy Alys Beach Wedding: Blakeley & Connor’s Elegant Celebration
Nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Alys Beach is the epitome of coastal elegance, making it the perfect setting for Blakeley and Connor’s luxury wedding. From their intimate morning preparations to a stunning sunset ceremony on the Gulf Green and a lavish tented reception, every detail of their day reflected timeless beauty and effortless sophistication. Blakeley and Connor’s wedding day began in the comfort of their elegant Alys Beach family home, surrounded by the serene charm of...
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sunrise Proposal in Crested Butte, CO
As the first light began to touch the peaks of Crested Butte, Tim knew it was his moment. The blue hour provided an incredible and dreamy backdrop for their special moment. Rachel was taken completely by surprise and instantly said yes! The joy on their faces was so genuine and beautiful, and I was thrilled to capture those real emotions right as they unfolded!
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Romantic Southern Utah Elopement
Spencer and McKenna’s romantic Southern Utah elopement photo shoot felt like a scene from a romantic movie. The setting provided a perfect backdrop for capturing their genuine connection. Every moment was spontaneous, highlighting their love in a unique way. The experience was simple and intimate, like watching a classic love story come to life.
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