How to Find the Perfect Elopement Photographer

I was recently talking with a couple who had decided to elope and were looking for their elopement photographer and I can’t stop thinking about the way they described their vision for their elopement day. They said they wanted their day to feel like the ultimate date day and they were looking for a photographer who could create art from their big day. And that really got me thinking – what are the considerations couples should make when they are searching for their elopement photographer??

Why You Need A Professional Elopement Photographer

A professional elopement photographer is someone who is going to not only protect you and the sanctity of your elopement day, but they are going to be someone who has systems and processes in place to truly understand your love story, your love language, and your vision for your day. They are also going to protect their business by being clear about their limitations, boundaries, and policies. By being clear and upfront about what you can expect, your elopement photographer is arming you with knowledge you need to have realistic expectations for your day.

You’ll also consider hiring a professional elopement photographer because they should know all of the processes in the areas they photograph to ensure your elopement is legal. For example, in Hawaii you r photographer (or officiant) will need to apply for a permit if you are planning on having any portion of your elopement on the beach. All of the beach accesses in Hawaii are public and highly protected and the permitting process is one way the state tries to ensure preserving the natural beauty of Hawaii. Your elopement photographer should also be able to provide you with clear instructions for how to obtain a marriage license in the location you plan to elope.

Questions to Ask Potential Elopement Photographers

It’s important for you to have a consultation call with your elopement photographer before you book them. I have a friend who had a small wedding on the beach a few years ago and she was SO excited because she found a wedding coordinator, officiant, and photographer package for a really great deal. Only to find out after booking that they were not on the same page about the level of service that would be provided. The last thing you want on the weeks, days, or even hours leading up to your elopement is to be stressed out and resentful toward the professionals working for you on that day because you did not clearly understand one another’s expectations and limitations.

That said, even if you’ve been following your potential elopement photographer on social media for a while and you feel like you know them, you want to make sure that in real life you and your partner have chemistry with your photographer. Whether you plan to spend two hours or two full days with your elopement photographer, they’ll likely be one of the few people to actually witness your marriage ceremony. You want to make sure you really “click” with that person. A few questions I recommend asking during your consult call:

• Are there any required permits for the location(s) we plan to elope at? If so, who is responsible for obtaining them?
• How much planning assistance is included in the elopement package you are considering?
• Are there limitations for flowers, decorations, guests, etc. at the location(s) you are considering?
• What is the photo style the photographer is known for (i.e., documentary, posed, true to life color, bright and airy, dark and moody)?
• What kind of communication can we expect from the photographer leading up to the elopement?
• Does your photographer provide any “sneak peek” photos?
• Does your photographer provide any skin retouching or body adjustments (if that’s something you think you might want or if it’s something you know you don’t want)?
• What is the anticipated timeline for receiving a full elopement gallery?
• Does your elopement photographer provide access to a full gallery for you to review?

In addition to asking questions, you also want to provide your photographer with some information about you, your partner, and your vision for the day. Of course, during the consult call, the photographer will likely ask you questions, but be sure to share things such as:

• How you and your partner met
• Your proposal story
• Your love languages (yes, this one is important! It helps photographers know the right prompts to help you really show your love for one another)
• What you envision your day will feel like (adventurous, romantic, laid-back, well planned, etc)
• What you want to feel when you look back on your elopement photos

Reviewing Galleries

Definitely take time to review a full gallery from your elopement photographer! As you look through the gallery, you want to ask yourself if you can see you and your partner in those photos. Of course, the location may not be exactly where you plan to marry and your style of dress may not be identical, but do you look at the photos and think, this is what I am hoping my gallery looks like?? Consider the look of the colors (specifically the greens, blues, and orange-tones), how light or dark the images are,

Making Your Decision

Ultimately, choosing your elopement photographer is a big decision, but I truly believe you should go with your gut instinct. If you have reviewed a full gallery and love the photos, have had a call with the photographer and “clicked”, and are clear and happy with the provided expectations, that is probably they right photographer for you!

If you’re loving what you just read, check out some of my other Hawaii elopement blog posts here: