Stemple Creek Wedding Photography in Northern CA



Whitney and John’s Stemple Creek Wedding Photography

Whitney and John’s wedding at Stemple Creek Ranch was such a joy to capture. This venue is one of my favorites for Stemple Creek wedding photography — its rolling hills, rustic barns, and groves of trees create a setting that feels both timeless and relaxed. It’s a dream location for couples planning in Northern California, and as a Napa wedding photographer, I love how close it is to wine country while still offering a true ranch atmosphere.

Ceremony Under the Redwoods at Stemple Creek

The couple originally planned to hold their ceremony in the cypress grove, but strong winds made them pivot to the redwood tree instead. It’s a great reminder that not every detail will go exactly as planned, and learning to embrace changes often makes the day smoother. Their vows beneath the redwood turned out beautifully, and their guests stayed comfortable without battling the chilly breeze.

Tip for couples: Always have a backup plan for your ceremony location. Light, wind, or temperature can shift on the day, and prioritizing comfort creates a better experience for everyone. For more ideas on building flexibility into your schedule, check out our guide on crafting the perfect wedding timeline.

First Look Moments on a Wedding Day

Whitney and John chose to do a first look before the ceremony, and we picked the barn as the spot. It gave us the best shade at that time of day, which meant they could move naturally while I captured multiple angles without harsh shadows. The moment was relaxed and genuine, and it set a joyful tone for the rest of the day.

Tip for couples: When it comes to first looks, I usually recommend letting your photographer guide the location. We’re always considering shade, light, and movement so the photos feel natural and flattering.

Golden Hour Portraits at Stemple Creek Weddings

As the sun dipped lower, we made our way into the cypress grove for portraits. Sunset here is something special — the western light streams through the trees, creating the kind of warmth and flare that defines my style. It’s one of the reasons I love returning for ranch weddings in Northern California.

Tip for couples: Plan for at least 20 minutes of portraits around sunset. This is consistently the best light of the day, and those photos often end up being the ones couples treasure most. For more advice, here are 5 tips for amazing wedding photos.

As a Napa wedding photographer, I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to prioritize golden hour in your schedule — the light in this region is unmatched.

Adding Personal Touches to Wedding Photography

One of the most memorable moments was including John’s vintage Ford truck, lovingly called Big Red, in their portraits. It wasn’t just a fun backdrop — it reflected their personality and added another layer of meaning to the gallery.

Tip for couples: Think about personal touches you could include in your portraits — a car, a pet, a family heirloom, even a favorite corner of the venue. These details tell your story in a way that feels uniquely yours.

Why I Love Stemple Creek Wedding Photography

From the rustic barn to the redwoods and open fields, Stemple Creek has a way of blending elegance with the relaxed feel of Northern California. It gives couples the freedom to design a wedding day that feels authentic while offering stunning opportunities for photography.

Want to see more examples? Explore these other celebrations:

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