HOW TO GET THE BEST ELOPEMENT PHOTOS | 5 EXPERT TIPS AND IDEAS FOR GORGEOUS ADVENTURE ELOPEMENT PICTURES

Hey, I’m Bree – your adventure elopement photographer based out of Lubbock, TX. Throughout my photography years, I have become an expert on the do’s and don’ts when planning an elopement; especially when it comes to capturing gorgeous elopement pictures. As part of my job, I make sure that you get show-stopping, jaw-dropping, amazingly gorgeous photos. Achieving this can depend on a few key details that I see many couples and photographers overlook. This guide is to help couples around the world get those Pinterest worthy images that everyone dreams of. So, let’s dive in!

1. PLAN AROUND THE SUN

This is listed first for a reason. Light is the most vital element you need to consider when planning your outdoor elopement. A good starting point is to aim for golden hour! This of course changes depending on location but in most cases, this is the way to go! Golden hour will provide those dreamy, soft lit photos that everyone loves. this hour happens right after sunrise and before sunset. The light is the most flattering on faces and skin tones and is a must in MOST cases.

If you choose to have photographs taken midday, you may be facing harsh light which causes the dreaded “raccoon eyes”. Midday’s direct sunlight highlights every imperfection on your skin and causes great contrast in you location that can pull attention from the subject; YOU. Sometimes, your photographer can combat this harsh light by finding shade. For example, if your elopement is in the city, you may have to shoot a bit further from golden hour due to the shade the buildings cast. Your photographer should be able to identify these variables and plan accordingly!

2. STYLE IT UP

Unquestionably, style is so important when it comes to photos that just feel RIGHT. Believe it or not, details go a long way in creating gorgeous images. It is human nature to gravitate towards pretty things. This doesn’t mean you have to buy a ton of decor and haul it up a mountain. What it does mean is putting thought into everything you DO want to include. Choose florals that add something to your location and mesh well with the landscape.

Pops of color that complement the rock, sky, sand and/or sea is always eye catching. Another detail to think about is TEXTURE! This can be found in your dress, the grooms tie, jewelry, and even hiking boots. Don’t overlook spicing things up that you may need anyway. Adding a “Just eloped” sign to your rucksacks can go a long way and doesn’t add a ton of weight. Little things like this make such a huge difference in the desirability of your photos.

3. GET OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Undoubtedly, nothing is worse than having crowds of tourist in the background of your photos.; or worse, strangers staring at you while you say, “I do”. This makes it hard to be completely in sync with your lover, and when it’s forced, you can tell through photos. For most couples, the whole point in eloping is not only for the adventure, but also to have a meaningful and intimate day with the person they love most. So, when choosing a location, go for a spot that not many people know about. That way, you have no distractions and can truly focus on your soon-to-be Mr./Mrs. This will set the mood for photos that are full of genuine emotion, memories, fun, love, and adventure that will take you back in time each time you look at them!

4. PREP FOR MOTHER NATURE

Since you’re out in the middle of nowhere… expect to face the elements!!! Rain, wind, heat, cold, mud, you name it!! If you expect these things, you can prepare for them. Wear waterproof makeup, hiking books, a coat/jacket you don’t mind being photographed in, and double up on socks. Pack hand warmers, wear your hair up (unless you don’t mind the wild look, which I personally love), and don’t fight the elements. Instead, welcome them and prepare to get a little dirty! This will make sure you aren’t a ball of frustration for your photos! I have found that when mother nature strikes, the prepared and expectant couples are still able to make the most of it and get AMAZING photos. I mean, who doesn’t want pictures dancing in the rain, in their wedding dress on a mountain top?? COUNT ME IN!

5. ADD A “DAY AFTER” SESSION

This brings us back to my first point, LIGHT. More times than not, the window for optimal light is short. Once you’ve hiked to your location, set up, and had your ceremony, that doesn’t leave much time for “newlywed” portraits. A great solution to this is booking an additional session for the day after. This gives you an opportunity to explore a completely NEW location and get the most out of the destination you’ve chosen for your elopement. You can even change up your hair and makeup for a whole different look, and I ALWAYS recommend wearing your wedding dress more than once! This will give variety to your gallery, and you will be SO glad you did it.

Overall, these tips are sure to help you plan your elopement and get the most gorgeous elopement photos! Remember that your special day can be anything you have ever wanted or can dream of. Always ask your photographer for help if you can’t think of locations or times that would best work for your elopement to have the best natural lighting. We LOVE to help and would love to make your elopement photoshoot that much more special!

Special thanks to all the vendors for making this elopement happen:

Photographer & Visionary: Charis & Co. Photo
Style & Planning: @tuluevents
Florals: @what_in_carnations
Bus & Furniture Rentals: @wanderlust.photobus
Dress: @reclamationdesigncompany

If you are looking for an adventure/ destination elopement photographer, you found one!! I love to travel anywhere my couples have in mind! Contact me here to book or ask questions about any of my packages!