The Desert Born Experience
2025
Established 2017
The Chick behind the Lens
Hi, I’m Sara Whittaker, the wild heart behind Desert Born Studios. After seven years photographing anything I could get my hands on, I found my true calling capturing love stories, big adventures, and the kind of moments that give you goosebumps. For the past seven years, weddings and elopements have been my jam, and I can’t imagine doing anything else.
Born and raised in Southern Utah, where red sandstone meets the towering peaks of Zion, my roots run deep in the wild and rugged beauty of nature. That untamed energy shaped my vision and fuels everything I do. Desert Born Studios isn’t just a business—it’s a way of life. It’s for couples who’d rather ditch tradition for adventure, trade ballrooms for dirt roads, and let their love run as wild and free as they are.
When I’m not behind the lens, I’m chasing sunsets, blasting classic rock, and finding inspiration in every dusty trail and windswept vista. For me, it’s all about raw emotion, authentic connections, and crafting something that feels as epic as your story deserves.
So, let’s crank up the music, break the rules, and create a love story worth shouting about. Your adventure starts here.
This isn’t just about taking photos; it’s about creating something real, raw, and uniquely you.
The experience
1. The Connection
We kick things off with a no-pressure chat—like friends meeting over coffee (or whiskey). I want to hear about you. Your story, your vibe, and the epic vision you have for your day. Whether it’s a windswept cliffside elopement, a barefoot ceremony in the desert, or something completely out of the box, I’m here for it all.
This isn’t just about photos; it’s about connection. I’m not just your photographer—I’m your hype person, trail scout, and low-key adventure buddy.
2. The Plan
Once we’re vibing, we’ll dive into the details. Don’t worry if you’re not a “planner”—that’s where I come in. From timeline tips to scouting jaw-dropping locations that match your vision, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Want to say your vows at sunrise in the Grand Canyon or hike to a secret overlook in Zion? Let’s make it happen.
This is where the magic starts to take shape, and we’ll make sure every detail feels like you.
3. The Build-Up
As your day gets closer, I’m here to keep things stress-free. Need advice on what to wear? Got a question about permits or logistics? I’ve got you. Think of me as your go-to for everything from epic shot ideas to grounding nerves when the excitement kicks in.
We’ll also finalize the game plan so you can roll into your big day feeling confident, carefree, and ready to live it up.
4. The Big Day
Here’s the deal: your wedding or elopement day is your adventure, and I’m just along for the ride. I’ll be there to capture every raw, real, and beautifully imperfect moment—whether you’re laughing until your sides hurt, tearing up during your vows, or dancing barefoot under the stars.
You do you, and I’ll be there documenting the magic. No stiff poses. No fake smiles. Just authentic, wild, and unforgettable moments.
5. The Aftermath
When the day is done and the dust settles, I’ll dive into editing your photos with the same care and energy I put into capturing them. You’ll get a gallery that feels like you—raw, bold, and full of soul.
And when you see those photos for the first time? It’s like reliving the best day of your life all over again.
Working with Desert Born
Love From the Fam
Sara is amazing. My hubs and I had a legitimately low-key elopement day and she captured our moments beautifully. Her work immediately captured my attention when I looked for photographers and it was zero hesitation that I made the right choice when I got a chance to talk with her. She is a true master of her craft, capturing love, nature, and the essence of the day perfectly.
1000/10 recommend!
-ST
We had an amazing experience with Sara! From the first phone call, I felt so comfortable with her. She traveled to Oregon to shoot our wedding and we had a BLAST with her. She even got on top of her second shooters shoulder (whom she had just met in person) to get a shot. We shared so many laughs with her throughout the day/night and loved how she just went with the flow. She fit right in with our family and friends. On top of all that, our pictures turned out AMAZING. She went so above and beyond that I can’t even pick a favorite. I emphasized my priority on bride and groom photos and she did not disappoint. I would HIGHLY recommended her for your special day!
-KB
If you are in need of any type of photos, call Sara. We cannot recommend her enough. I would give her one million stars if I could. She photographed our wedding day in San Diego and EVERY SINGLE photo she took was stunning. She took our wedding vision and ran with it. She made my husband and I (and our wedding party) feel so comfortable. Every photo looks natural and amazing. I plan to use her every time I need a photographer. We are so happy and I cannot thank her enough!!
-SG
Where do I even begin!?!?!? Sara is a natural at what she does, and it comes with such ease. When I was looking for a photographer, I wanted someone who would capture the raw emotion and realness of our special day. After our first convo with Sara she sent us a few sample galleries and my decision was made! Little did I know she would become my literal favorite wedding vendor to date. From our engagement shoot to our wedding day, I’ve never had more fun. She brought the vibes, dance moves, and our wedding guests & bridal party were just as obsessed with her. I’ve never had more compliments on our wedding and engagement photos. If you’re looking for someone who will make you feel comfortable around the camera (she’s brilliant at this!!!), bring the energy and capture unreal shots, then Sara is your girl. Her laid back nature is truly second to none. I’ll be recommending her to everyone I know!!!
-RS
Your wedding or elopement is more than a day—it’s a whirlwind of emotion, connection, and unforgettable moments that deserve to live on long after the confetti settles. Investing in photography isn’t just about pictures; it’s about preserving the way your love felt.
The truth is, professional wedding photographers typically charge between $3,000 and $9,000 because capturing your day is about so much more than snapping photos. It’s about artistry, storytelling, and crafting memories you can relive for a lifetime.
At Desert Born Studios, I offer:
- Wedding Packages ranging from $4,000 to $7,000, covering everything from the Sweet getting-ready moments to the wild dance floor vibes.
- Elopement Packages ranging from $3,000 to $6,000, designed to capture your adventurous, intimate day in the most breathtaking locations.
When you choose Desert Born Studios, you’re not just hiring a photographer—you’re investing in an experience. I’m here to document the raw, the real, and the wildly you. These photos will be your legacy: the laughter, the tears, the in-between glances, and the epic moments you’ll treasure forever.
Investing in Your Memories
This is your story, and it’s worth investing in.
Let'’s create something unforgettable together.
You Made it
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