Member spotlight - Valerie Lisuk - Public Land Creatives

A couple holds each other while standing on a rock on the coast.

Where are you based? Where do you photograph the most?

I’m based in Seattle, Washington, and specialize in adventure elopements and intimate weddings along the West Coast (Washington, Oregon, and California). The top locations are Olympic National Park, North Cascades, Mt Rainier, and Oregon Coast.

A couple sits together on a tree on the coast line of Olympic National Park.

Why do you feel that the work PLC does is important?

I grew up in Eastern Europe, where the majority of the population is unaware of Leave No Trace principles. As someone passionate about nature, I did my best to advocate for these principles, but it was an uphill battle due to the lack of widespread awareness.

Then I moved to the United States, and finally, I was among people who shared my love for nature and actively worked towards preserving it for future generations. Public Land Creatives, provided me with a community that echoed my values.

We, as adventure elopement photographers, have a responsibility to lead by example and champion the Leave No Trace concept to the best of our abilities. It’s not just about capturing breathtaking moments in nature but doing so in a way that respects and preserves the environment.

A couple holds hands and walks through the HOH rainforest.

Why did you become a member? Why do you think others should become members?

I became a member of Public Lands Creatives because it offers a platform for adventure elopement photographers like myself to address the complexities of working within public lands. PLC serves as a collective voice, advocating for our interests and facilitating discussions with land management authorities to streamline processes like permit application and clarify our roles within these spaces.

Joining PLC offers several advantages beyond individual advocacy. It fosters a sense of community among like-minded creatives, providing opportunities for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and mutual support. By pooling our resources and expertise, we can collectively address challenges connected with a photography on public lands.

Ultimately, joining PLC is not just about advocating for our own interests—it’s about contributing to the preservation and celebration of our public lands for future generations. By uniting as a community of passionate creatives, we can ensure that these invaluable natural resources remain accessible and protected, while also advancing our own professional goals and aspirations

Tell us some of your favorite memories working on Public Lands?

I love working on public lands as an adventure elopement photographer because they offer some of the most beautiful outdoor spots you can find. These places have stunning scenery like tall mountains, wide deserts, lush forests, and pretty coastlines. Each spot is different and perfect for capturing unique moments of love.

Being on public lands feels like being free and exploring new things. Whether we’re hiking, saying vows with a view, or finding hidden spots, there’s always something exciting to discover. Working in these places helps me relax and enjoy the peacefulness away from the busy city life. Breathing in the fresh air and being surrounded by nature feels calming and refreshing.

And it’s not just about taking pretty pictures. By showing off the beauty of these places, I hope to inspire others to care for and protect them. Every photo I take is a reminder of why it’s essential to look after our planet.

In short, working on public lands isn’t just a job – it’s a passion. It lets me connect with nature, make memories with my clients, and help keep our planet beautiful for generations to come.

One experience that stands out involved a bride with an extraordinary background – she used to be a world-famous ballroom dancer. However, a ski accident pressed pause on her career, leading to multiple leg surgeries.

In the months leading up to her elopement, we discussed the possibility of this adventure, contemplating when she’d feel strong enough for it. It wasn’t an easy decision, but after her last surgery, we settled on two relatively easy trails – the road to Gold Creek Pond and to Franklin Falls in Washington.

Witnessing the tears of joy in the bride’s eyes was more than just capturing a momentous occasion for her and her partner. It was a celebration of resilience and love. Even though her last surgery was only two months ago, they conquered the trails, and I couldn’t have been happier to be part of such a journey.