Photographer Spotlight: Krissy Johnson's Journey to Capturing Love
An elopement and intimate wedding photographer, Krissy Johnson is based in the stunning and sun-kissed landscapes of Arizona. With a passion for helping couples tie the knot in adventurous and unique ways, Krissy brings her creative touch to beautiful locations across Arizona and Moab, Utah.
We had the pleasure of getting to know Krissy, and she shared her experiences, tips, and what makes her approach to photography so unique. Keep reading to learn more about her journey and how she brings joy and creativity to every wedding she captures!
What drew you to photography?
At my core, I'm a deeply nostalgic person with a memory that isn’t always the best. But there's something magical about how seeing things visually can instantly pull a memory to the forefront for me, and that’s what drew me to photography.
Growing up, I watched my parents capture our lives with a camera always close by, preserving our precious moments together. I wanted to remember my life just like that, with snapshots of laughter, love, and the little adventures that make life golden.
Was there a specific experience or realisation that led you down to elopement photography?
I remember chatting with a fellow photographer years ago, sharing my thoughts on what I liked and disliked about shooting big weddings. I told her how I wished there was something different I could do, something that resonated more with my heart. She invited me to tag along as a second shooter at one of her elopements.
That day, as I watched this couple exchange vows in such an intimate and personal way, I fell in love. I even cried a little, moved by the raw, beautiful emotion of it all. In that moment, I knew elopements were where my heart truly belonged, and I had to follow it.
Photos by Krissy Johnson
How did you identify and connect with your target audience in the beginning?
When I first started out, I didn’t have a clear target audience. I fell into the trap of trying to mimic the well-known photographers I thought were successful, blending in with the crowd. It took me some time to figure out who I truly wanted to attract. This realization came when I noticed a glaring lack of inclusivity and diversity in the elopement space.
As I delved deeper into understanding myself as an artist, I began to see what I wanted to put out into the world and who I genuinely wanted to help. This self-discovery was the turning point in becoming the photographer I am today. I realized that speaking directly to my audience, my people, was far more effective than trying to appeal to the masses.
Photos by Krissy Johnson
Were there any marketing strategies you found particularly effective?
Once I honed in on my branding, understood who I was talking to, and clarified how I wanted my message to come across, everything changed.
Using platforms like Instagram and Google, I was able to attract these incredible people who wanted to get married in their own unique way. It’s been a journey of finding my voice and connecting with those who resonate with it, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
What inspires you?
Connection is my greatest source of inspiration. I'm fascinated by the different ways people connect with each other and with themselves. This openness fuels my creativity, pushing me to challenge my own limiting beliefs about what a moment could be.
On elopement days, I strive to let things unfold naturally, allowing couples to truly feel what they feel without trying to orchestrate moments. It’s in these organic, unplanned moments that the real magic happens, and I get to capture the essence of their unique connection.
Photos by Krissy Johnson
How do you typically prepare for a shoot?
STRETCH! Yup, that’s how I kick things off! But seriously, prepping my gear is just the start. I also take the time to read over the questionnaires I send out, making sure I’m emotionally prepared for what the couple wants and needs on their big day.
Setting the mood with music on the way to the shoot is my secret weapon. If I know the couple is high energy and ready to have a blast, you bet my playlist will reflect that! As a huge music lover, the right tunes help me get into the perfect headspace, aligning with the vibe we’re going for. Because, let’s be real, who doesn’t want to groove to some great beats while capturing love?
What does your go-to gear set-up look like that you find yourself using often?
So, I am someone who likes to keep it super simple. So I will have my:
- Canon R5 with my 35mm
- Canon 5D Mark III with an 85mm - Spider Holster
- Camcorder
- Fujifilm Instax mini Evo
How do you keep a healthy work-life balance?
I’ll let you know when I find it, haha. Seriously though, balance depends on the season for me. Sometimes, I just have to put my head down and get the work done. But I do try to stick to a few non-negotiables, like taking morning walks or making sure I have at least one weekend a month to either do nothing or spend time with the people I love. I aim not to be too strict with myself and set reminders to help me maintain that balance. Sometimes, that means my best friend stepping in to remind me to take a break!
Looking back, what would you do differently in your career?
If I could go back, I’d take the time to truly get to know myself and who I wanted to serve from the start. When I first began, I felt so lost, trying to conform to the status quo of what an elopement photographer "should" be.
It took me a while to find my voice and feel comfortable using it, to call out to the couples who were searching for me. Finding my unique path and embracing it has made all the difference, connecting me with those who resonate with my vision and approach.
What advice would you give to someone who is just beginning their career as a photographer?
Stay curious and get to know who you are. Embrace trying new things and challenge yourself to keep creating art. Take time to understand the person you are in this season—it’ll help you connect with the couples who are searching for someone just like you.
Sure, there are technical skills that are important, and yes, definitely learn them. Take what you need from educators and trainings, but please, don’t change who you are just to fit in or attract more clients. Who you are is enough and so needed in this industry.
Is there any advice/lesson learned you’d like to share with our community?
Leave people better than you found them. It’s not just about being the most talented photographer—it’s about how you make others feel. Be kind, be considerate, and make every interaction about the person you’re working with. The right people will always find their way to you when you stay true to who you are and what you stand for.
And remember, enjoy the journey of creating art and seeing the world through your lens. We’re incredibly fortunate to have this gift, so let’s use it with love and make the world a bit more beautiful each day.
Photos by Krissy Johnson
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