Matlai Photography

Matlai Photography

Based In: Alaska
Business Attributes: Woman Owned
Photographer: Matlai Photography

Matlai Photography

Based In: Alaska
Business Attributes: Woman Owned

My name is Rose and I am your guide and expert on all things how to elope in Alaska.

I have explored all over Alaska, and experienced its  vast ecosystems and dramatic vistas.  Having worked in this great state for several years, I have formed wonderful connections with a variety of kickass vendors- from helicopter companies, hair and makeup artists, dog sledding companies and kayaking excursions- your wish is my command! From the Arctic Tundra’s immense caribou herds to the Humpback whale breaches of the coastline, I have seen so much of what this state can offer.  If adventure is a priority, then Alaska is a must and I am here to help.

Alaska is an incredibly wild place, with so much to offer whether you’re an ocean loving person, at home in the mountains, or want to experience the wilderness deep in the interior. Photographing in these environments requires a preparedness and eagerness for flexibility, and I am always down for that adventure! The thing with eloping in Alaska, is that it really is endless with options for adventure. Check out this blog on how to elope in Seward! It’s an absolute favorite of mine.

As an adventure photographer, I focus on capturing intimate, authentic moments. With a background in travel and documentary photography, previously working in international non profit storytelling, my style speaks to those looking for the organic story but also down to have a really good time. I am the type of person that cherishes experiences over things, spicy thai food, craft beers and Lord of the Rings references. So if that sounds like a solid start, reach out and lets chat all things Alaska Elopement!

 

What’s it like to elope with me?

Part of what makes an elopement so special, is the ability to manifest your values and priorities into a celebration that is authentically you. As someone who also eloped, I know what this looks like and with all my heart cherish how important it is. So after our initial consultation where we check in and get to know each other a bit, we work closely throughout the process to make the dream happen. Above all, communication is vital and one of my top priorities in this whole experience.

 

Where in Alaska have you been?

In the summer of 2022, I drove from Denver Colorado to Prudhoe Bay at the Arctic Ocean. Why? Because I love road trips, adventure, pursuing my dreams and checking goals off my list. But the other side to this, is that I got to have my Toyota Tundra along for 6 weeks and explored the state extensively. When I say that, I mean that I have driven every road in Alaska (minus a 60 mile stretch to Circle) and along the way marked countless stops for scenic elopements. So how well do I know the state? I guess you could say pretty damn well. That means that if you have an idea or even a vague notion of what kind of scenery you want for your Alaskan Elopement then I will have lots of ideas, and can cultivate a personalized location guide just for you! Plus I have taken time to network with local vendors who can help make your vision come to life.  All in all, Alaska is a second home and I would be so very honored and excited to share an experience with you.

 

 

 

Alaska Elopement Photographer
Alaska Elopement Photographer
Alaska Elopement Photographer
Alaska Elopement Photographer
Private vows with a glacier in the background? Yes!
Private vows with a glacier in the background? Yes!
Seward elopement
Seward elopement
Seward Elopement Photographer
Seward Elopement Photographer
01 / 26
Previous Next

We had the most amazing experience with Rose! Our engagement shoot had to be postponed a few days due to weather, but she was flexible and able to help us pick a new location that wouldn’t be so impacted from the storm! We hiked around a bit and found the most beautiful overlooks! Rose is so talented, professional, and easy to work with! Turn around time was fast and we absolutely love the way our pictures turned out! We highly recommend Matlai photography and plan to use her for future photography needs as well!

Lindsey E

5 stars all around!! Rose makes you feel very comfortable on the other side of the camera - and the photos are fantastic!

Lisa T

Rose is an excellent photographer who does such a great job of finding beautiful and unique locations to photograph people! Would hire her again in a heartbeat and recommend her for your elopement!

L Lundgren

Rose is an exceptional photographer. Her work speaks for itself. We had a small backyard wedding, and Rose elevated all the magic moments with her photos. She made the photo-taking process so relaxed and fun, it was a huge relief on the day of...then when we received the results we were blown away. Rose has a superb eye, she warmly added to the wedding day experience and made the entire planning to execution process super easy. If you are considering Rose as a photographer for any of your special occasion, the answer is yes. You won't regret it.

Megan Brown

Rose was such a joy!! She was punctual, had a great personality, and delivered AMAZING photos that I will cherish forever! If you’re thinking about hiring her, don’t hesitate! You will be over the moon with your experience!

Hannah

Rose took our pictures in Bryce Canyon National Park and they turned out amazing!! She is so much fun to work with. Book her to capture those memories you want to last forever!

Whitney

I don't even know where to start in expressing my gratitude, adoration, respect, and awe for Rose and her work. My partner and I knew even before we were engaged that we wanted to elope somewhere amazing and that we needed to have a first rate adventure photographer/documentarian along for the ride. We more than lucked out when we discovered Rose. We'd originally booked a different photographer, but due to a variety of circumstances, our original elopement plan fell apart. Thankfully, we discovered Rose and after drooling over her Instagram and having a fun phone call meet and greet while she was traveling in South America, we knew we'd found the perfect fit. Rose's calm demeanor, documentary-inspired approach to photography, and her endless enthusiasm for her people is infectious. After we pivoted from our original Colorado mountain elopement and decided to run off to Alaska, Rose took the time to meet with us and walk through all the different Alaskan options we had, including providing sample itineraries for all of them. She helped find vendors, Airbnbs, and even told us what to pack. All throughout our planning process, she was in lockstep to make sure we didn't leave anything out and that we would have the perfect day. She did a ton of research and identified an affordable water taxi in Seward to take us to what turned out to be a nearly private island. She organized our vendors to facilitate transport of my bouquet and cake from Anchorage to Seward. And throughout our whole day, she provided a steady presence that helped calm my nerves while at the same time being the ultimate hype woman. She captured our whole day beautifully and looking at our photos transports us back to the sights and feelings we had on our wedding day. I am so glad that we found Rose, who turned out to be not just the ULTIMATE photographer and elopement planning partner, but also an awesome person and dear friend. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU <3

Tara + Dan
The Ultimate Alaskan Elopement
Previous Next
Alaska winter elopement

Helicopter landings in Alaska are a top experience!

A helicopter landing up a glacier in Alaska is one of the most incredible ways to see all that nature has to offer. Especially in the winter months, it offer tremendous opportunity for once in a lifetime views! Elope in Alaska and the views always deliver.

Wandering Since 2021
Matlai Photography

Let’s Connect! Contact This Vendor.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.