Hey There, I'm Sierra
I'm a mother, wife, creator, daydreamer and night-thinker. You can often find me with my head in the clouds, feet in the mud, calling everyone 'dude', with a third (or fourth) cup of coffee in my cup.
I am always ready to hold your dress while you pee, dance with your 90-year old grandpa, play tag with your nephews, and wade in freezing water to get THE shot for you.
When you work with me, you can expect to dance, run, piggyback, motorboat, swear, laugh, and get messy. So what I'm saying is: wear comfortable shoes, throw the rulebook away, and don't take life too seriously.
SAY LESS, I'M IN
long story short
At Wild Iris Studios, my mission is to create a space where people can embrace their raw and authentic selves while empowering them to prioritize experiences that light their souls on fire, free from the constraints of societal expectations. I specialize in capturing wild souls in wild landscapes and crafting unforgettable elopement experiences for the rebels, risk-takers, and free spirits. My goal is to unveil and celebrate the uniqueness within each of my clients, leaving them with breathtaking images full of emotion that tell the story of their unique journeys.
My promise to you
My love for photography started young—like Spice Girl Polaroid-camera, taking-photos-of-literally-everything young. My dad was the same way, always capturing life through his worn-leather strapped film cameras (which I still have and treasure). I went to college and studied social sciences—all the things that help you understand how people think, act, and connect. (Which, fun fact, is actually super useful when your job is capturing real, raw emotions.)
After graduating in 2017, I started my photography business as a side gig. By 2019, what had started as a creative outlet had turned into a full-blown obsession. I rebranded to Wild Iris Studios, specializing in non-traditional weddings and adventurous elopements—basically, weddings that feel as unique as the people getting married. I had a full-time office job, a growing business, and two little ones keeping me on my toes. Life was a lot, but I loved it. Then COVID hit. And suddenly, I was working a full-time job, homeschooling a kindergartner, chasing a toddler, and trying to keep my business afloat. Something had to give (and clearly, it wasn’t going to be my kids). That left me with a choice: my safe, predictable office job… or the business that set my soul on fire.
I was terrified to take the leap, but my husband—always the one to tell me to follow my dreams and then put up with my shenanigans when I do—was the one who looked me in the eye and said, “Go for it.”
So I did. And I’ve never looked back.
long story NOT-SO-short
CONFESSION TIME
I didn’t always love weddings. In fact, after my own, I avoided them. We got married young, before the age of Pinterest. I didn’t even know other options existed. I thought a wedding was supposed to be one specific thing—a big guest list, a formal venue, a first dance, a set of traditions that everyone follows. So that’s what we planned. I thought getting married at a campsite lodge was the kookiest idea. And don’t get me wrong—I married the love of my life, and that part was perfect. But the wedding itself? It felt like I was planning it for someone else. I dreaded walking down the aisle with everyone staring at me. I skipped heartfelt vows for generic ones because the idea of baring my soul in front of that many people made me want to crawl into a hole. I spent the entire reception making sure everyone was happy but me.
And when the day was over? It felt like a blur. Like I had checked off all the “right” boxes, but missed the part where I actually enjoyed my own wedding. For a long time, I thought something was wrong with me.
WHIY DID OTHER PEOPLE LOVE THEIR WEDDINGS, WHILE MINE JUST FELT LIKE A PERFORMANCE?
It wasn’t until years later that I realized: it wasn’t weddings that bothered me. It was the fact that mine wasn’t the right wedding for me. Then I started hearing about couples I knew road-tripping through Europe and eloping in Italy; Having small, intentional weddings in Mexico; Couples swapping a dance floor for yard games and giant bouncy-houses. And suddenly, it hit me—weddings don’t have to follow the traditional cookie-cutter script.
SO THAT'S WHAT I DO NOW
I help couples throw out the rulebook and create wedding days that feel fun, meaningful, and wildly unique to them. Whether it’s a mountaintop elopement, a black dress and combat boots kind of vibe, or a destination wedding where the guests get to experience something unforgettable—I’m here for it. Since rebranding Wild Iris Studios, I’ve helped dozens of couples from all over the world plan and capture the untraditional weddings of their dreams. Weddings that feel right—because they’re designed for you, not anyone else.
If the idea of a big, traditional wedding makes you cringe but you’re also a big softie inside—if you believe in the depth, meaning, and adventure of marriage but want a day that’s unforgettable and entirely yours—then I’d love to help you make that happen.
CONNECT WITH ME
"We're shy and super
awkward"
This isn't my first rodeo. I've had a camera in my hands for as long as I can remember, and I've been in business professionally since 2017. This is more than just a job or a creative outlet for me, it's a passion, an obsession, and I freaking love what I do. Ask me anything throughout your planning process. I have loads of resources and advice to share that will help make your day amazing!
Experience and Passion
My approach to photography is all about capturing real, raw emotion—not just pretty poses. With a background in Social Science, plus advanced training in The Art of Emotion, I’ve learned how to evoke genuine feelings so your photos actually feel like you. I’ll guide you into real moments of laughter, intimacy, and connection so your images are full of life and emotion. The result? Photos that don’t just show what happened—they take you right back to how it felt.
Emotion Driven
I'm not a big fan of those cheesy and staged photos that don't look genuine. For the majority of your day, I prefer to take a step back and capture your day as it unfolds. Then when it comes time for portraits, I like to take a lifestyle approach, which means giving you things to do rather than just poses to stay in. You'll be too busy spinning and laughing and snuggling and swaying to wonder where to look or what to do with your hands.
Lifestyle Approach
I get it. seriously, I do! You are not alone. I've personally been in front of the camera many times at various stages of life and always feel some sort of way about it; whether it be stiff and awkward (wtf do I do with my hands?) or super self conscious (do I look as bloated as I feel?). The secret sauce to looking comfortable in front of the camera, is feeling comfortable in front of the camera, and I'm here to make the whole process feel fun, relaxed, and genuine.
... said every couple I've ever photographed, ever...
What it's like working with me
CONTACT ME
FOREVER INSPIRED BY
SPARKLES ON THE WATER
ROLLING FOG
THAT FEELING YOU GET WHEN YOU SPIN IN CIRCLES
THE WIND CATCHING YOUR HAIR
THE MOON
Sierra is amazing! Her lighting style immediately drew us to her when looking for wedding photographers as we wanted to capture the vibrance and joy of our big day. She met those expectations with her beautiful photos and was also such a pleasure to work with. She is calm, organized, very approachable, and a great communicator, which allowed us to relax and just have fun. Thank you, Sierra!
- Leanora S. and Alex B.
CLIENT LOVE
Sierra is an ABSOLUTE ANGEL! I cannot recommend her enough. She made my husband and I feel comfortable in front of the camera and was so much fun to work with. I have the most beautiful photos to last a lifetime. I could have never dreamed of these photos turning out the way they did! She is truly an artist. When we get the chance to go back to Alaska, I will be booking her for another photoshoot! Love her so much and I am sending her hugs from Florida! Thank you again!
- Kaci W. and Josh W.
CLIENT LOVE
Sierra made our engagement photo session so easy, fun, and completely worthwhile. The process was incredibly simple and Sierra was flexible with getting us booked quickly. She was responsive, and accommodating. She made as feel at ease. And all of this before actually seeing the end result! Needless to say, Sierra has incredible talent, and the photos she took of us will be cherished forever. She is a true gem, and anyone would be lucky to have her photograph an important moment in their life. 1000% worth it.
- Paige B. and Cody N.
CLIENT LOVE
Sierra made me feel so comfortable in my own skin! She is so down-to-earth and just a wonderful person. Her photography skills capture you in the best light and she is just magic when it comes to framing and composition. I would absolutely recommend her for even the most intimate moments of your life and enjoy all the captured memories forever! My husband and I are thrilled with our photos, and cannot thank Sierra enough for her time invested into her work.
- Carolyn S.
CLIENT LOVE
We Hired Sierra Wilson's photography services, for our wedding on the Mendenhall glacier in Juneau AK As it is on glacier we had short wedding ceremony but we really appreciated Sierra Wilson work when we saw final pictures! We don’t know how she could capture those amazing pictures in 40 mins on glaciers! Sierra is a professional and understanding person, she spoke to us for 30 min while booking about our expectations and delivered them 100% Great quality of work! We are happy that we hired her for our special day! Sierra made it beautiful with her creative skills. Strongly suggest her service.
- Sarahbeth and Sandeep H.J.
CLIENT LOVE
WOW!!! We are absolutely thrilled with all of our amazing photos! Sierra is such an awesome person and was able to capture every special moment throughout our day! She knew exactly what to do and say to make us feel 100% comfortable. Looking at our photos brings us right back to that moment! Thank you Sierra for being such an amazing piece of our wedding day! We can’t wait to come back to Alaska for our next adventure! For sure Sierra will be a part of it!
- Maggie B. and Bill P.
CLIENT LOVE
The biggest challenge when first looking for a surprise proposal photographer was finding one in a location we have never been too. Thankfully, with the help of all of Sierra's astounding reviews and stunning portfolio, the choice was easy! Sierra made this process seamless and guided me through her process in making this precious moment one to last a lifetime. She is responsive to any concerns, descriptive in creating a plan for execution, and exuded warmth and friendliness at all times. Sierra made us feel comfortable and playful in our photoshoot, making for a variety of beautiful photos that we would have never thought could be possible. She is an absolute master in this craft and highly recommended to anyone looking for a photographer! Thank you, Sierra!!!
- Jonah N.
CLIENT LOVE
We booked Sierra for our Juneau wedding photos and WOW! are we ever happy we did!! Not only is she an amazing photographer (that’s clear from her website!), but she managed to make us feel relaxed and comfortable, and we had fun!! (and that’s saying a lot because we do not usually enjoy having our photo taken lol). Thank you so much Sierra for making the whole process simple, for going over and above, and for perfectly capturing us!!!
- Chelsea and Dan G.
CLIENT LOVE
“I had a lot of confidence in Sierra as a photographer but I was still pretty sure I would hate the pictures because I hate all pictures of me. I totally had a panic attack about it before arriving. And I LOVE these pictures so so so much. I adore them all, it actually made me cry”
- Melanie
CLIENT LOVE
“Taking photos with Sierra is fun and easy going. The experience was really special and intimate. No pressure to be perfect, and just capturing the moment in its most natural state. The final product turned out beautifully too! I would recommend any couple to schedule a session with Wild Iris Photography!”
- Kayla T.
CLIENT LOVE
“Working with Sierra was very easy. She was so sweet and very receptive to my ideas and added ideas of her own. When we got to the site she brought chocolate for my daughter as a special treat which was so thoughtful. She made beautiful maternity photos for my family to look back on for years to come. I would highly recommend her for your family photos.”
- Samantha
CLIENT LOVE
“After a lifetime of feeling uncomfortable in my own skin I was nervous and excited about my boudoir shoot. My partner and I were immediately at ease with the professionalism and direction that Wild Iris photography continuously gave throughout the shoot. A lifetime of uncertainty was turned into confidence! Seeing just a glimpse of our photos has us so excited to see the rest - we know without a doubt that not only photos will be something we cherish but the experience as well. Highly recommend!”
- Chloey
CLIENT LOVE
“Sierra is an AMAZING photographer and really catches the beauty in a photo. She is kind, sweet, honest and really cares about her clients. I cannot recommend her enough. I would give her way more than 5 stars. She makes you feel so comfortable, confident and gorgeous during the shoot. I’ve done 2 shoots with her so far and I CANNOT wait to do another one with her again. Sierra is a serious blessing! You will not regret getting your photos done by this gorgeous lady!”
- Ambree
CLIENT LOVE
I cannot recommend Sierra enough. We used Wild Iris for Senior Pictures. Our whole experience was about so much more than just pictures. My daughter has never been a fan of having her picture taken. Sierra really took the time to get to know her and what she wanted before the photo session. Sierra arranged for hair and makeup before the shoot which was so convenient and turned out amazing. She has an excellent eye for perfect photo spots and made sure my daughter was comfortable and enjoying the shoot the entire time. When we received the final photos I was speechless. They are so beautiful. They really reflect my daughter’s personality. Everything went above and beyond my expectations and I look forward to using Wild Iris Photography again in the future.
- Sonja P.
CLIENT LOVE
It has been an honor to work with Sierra. She works magic with her camera lens. I'm super excited to start sharing her creations from our branding photoshoot together last week. She made me feel at ease right away. And her images reflect me as an artist; fun, messy, colorful. I highly recommend her work!
- Christine K.
CLIENT LOVE
Sierra photographed our styled elopement and the whole day was just amazing! She is so easy to work with & gives the perfect amount of instructions and freedom to have as much fun as you want to with it. Her pictures turned out better than i could have imagined & really captures the love and joy from that day. We will cherish her work forever. EVERYONE should have Sierra photograph the big & little moments in their lives
- Paige & Xavier W.
CLIENT LOVE
Sierra took such amazing and wonderful photos! She was a joy to work with and really captured our family's personality. I would absolutely have her take our photos again!!! Well worth it! If you are still on the fence, stop thinking and book a time slot before someone else does.
- Michael and Teresa C.
CLIENT LOVE
view portfolio
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
Street Cred
Boudoir Culture Magazine, Issue #9
Wandering Weddings Published Article on Hatcher Pass
Mainsite Contemporary Art Gallery, The Art of Emotion Exhibit
Stripped Down: The Art of Emotion in Photography
Thrive: The Business of Unconventional Weddings & Elopements
The ART of Adventure Wedding and Photography
How to Leave Not Trace for Wedding and Elopement Photographers
EDUCATION
2024 - 2025
Travel Schedule
BOOK NOW
North Cascades - Aug. 6-7
Mt. Rainier - Aug. 8-9
Mat-Su - Sep. 1-2
Denali Nat. Park - Sep. 3-5
Fairbanks - Sep. 6-7
Seattle - Sept 25-26
Vancouver - Sept 27-30
Las Vegas - Mar. 18-20
Travel FAQs
I'm so glad you asked! I adore travel and have photographed clients as far Las Vegas and Oklahoma City. See the Travel Schedule above to see where I am headed next. If you book a sessions with me there, during that time, there will be no travel fees. Otherwise, contact me and we can chat!
Will you travel to me?
The bucket list is a list of locations worldwide that I've been dying to visit and photograph. So much so, that if you book a session with me to take place at any of those locations, and you cover my travel and lodging, your session or wedding cost will be significantly reduced.
What is the Bucket List?
Travel fees vary depending on whether the destination is in Alaska, outside of Alaska, or outside of the US, and how many nights of lodging will be required. Please contact me about your session and I can give you a custom quote.
What are your travel fees?
You're asking the right gal! I've lived here for most of my life and I know Juneau better than most people. I have a list of preferred vendors and I would love to help you plan your visit, whether it's a few hours or a few days!
I'm traveling to Juneau, where should I go/eat/stay/play?
