Plus Questions, Timing, and Everything Else You Need to Know!

Planning an elopement is a whirlwind of excitement, romance, and a fun way to celebrate your wedding that feels more natural to you! But when should you book your elopement photographer? And how do you even know if you’ve found the right one? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with all the details to make your elopement planning a breeze. Here are a bunch of tips for booking your elopement photographer, let’s dive in!

Timing is Everything: When to Book Your Elopement Photographer

First things first: If you’re dreaming of an epic elopement in places like the Adirondacks, Catskills or are escaping the Winter and want a Florida, you’ll want to book your elopement photographer as soon as possible. Here’s why:

• Peak Seasons Book Fast: Popular elopement destinations like the Adirondacks (think golden fall leaves or snowy mountain peaks) and Florida (hello, sunny beaches!) have peak seasons. Photographers often get booked out months, sometimes a year, in advance for these times. However, if you are flexible with your date, you’re more likely to find availability with your dream elopement photographer!
• Destination Logistics: If you’re planning a destination elopement, like hiking in the Adirondacks or a beachside ceremony in Florida, your photographer may need to coordinate travel. Giving them enough lead time ensures everything runs smoothly. Plus, it’ll give everyone time to find and decide on specific locations that fits your vibe the best!

Pro Tip: Aim to book your photographer at least 6 months before your elopement. If you’re planning something last minute, don’t panic! Many photographers have flexible schedules and love a spontaneous adventure. I planned an entire elopement for one of my couples in just two days before so it can absolutely be done in less than 6 months. However, it’s nice to have a little extra time so you don’t feel rushed.

Questions to Ask Your Elopement Photographer

Finding the right photographer isn’t just about their gorgeous portfolio (although, let’s be honest, drooling over those dreamy shots is part of the fun). Here are some key questions to ask:

1. Have you shot elopements in this area before?
   • Whether it’s the Florida Gulf Coast or the Adirondack High Peaks, local knowledge can be a game-changer. Make sure they at least plan on visiting the locations you’ve discussed in advance so they’re more familiar with the location and aren’t wasting time on your wedding day.
2. Do you help with planning?
   • Many photographers wear multiple hats and can assist with scouting locations, creating timelines, or even recommending vendors. Bonus points if they’ll take care of all permits, if needed, too so it’s one less thing on your list of to-dos.
3. What’s included in your packages?
   • Look for details like travel fees, number of hours, and whether you’ll get sneak peeks of your photos (because who wants to wait?). The only surprises you should be getting from your photographer are good ones! Make sure to get all the info and details upfront.
4. What’s your approach to capturing elopements?
   • Some photographers focus on candid moments, while others mix in posed shots. Make sure their style aligns with your vision.
5. Do you have backup gear?
   • Spoiler alert: The answer should be a resounding YES. I have 2 cameras with me at all times because technology can fail, things are accidentally dropped and sometimes the weather can play into the functionality of our equipment. Make sure your photographer has backup gear AND has plans to backup your precious photographs!

Things to Consider When Booking an Elopement Photographer

Booking the perfect elopement photographer isn’t just about locking in a date. These tips for booking your elopement photographer are important! Here are some other factors to keep in mind:

1. Style

Do you love airy, light-filled images? Or are you drawn to rich, moody tones? Each photographer has a unique style, so pick one that resonates with you. If you aren’t in love with their editing style, don’t hire them even if you love everything else. A photographer’s style is pretty much set in stone and asking them to reedit photos will likely be an additional fee.

2. Experience

Eloping in the great outdoors (especially in places like the Adirondack Mountains or a Florida spring) can come with unpredictable weather and lighting. An experienced elopement photographer knows how to handle these challenges like a pro. Plus they should have backup plans, an emergency kit, additional items that are frequently used and more. The more experience a photographer has, the more you should feel comfortable that you’re in good hands and can trust them fully.

3. Personality

You’ll be spending a lot of time with your photographer on one of the most intimate days of your life. Choose someone who feels like a friend! If you aren’t getting the warm fuzzies from your photographer after looking through their website or after your consult call, move on to someone else. Finding a photographer who you love, has similar values, and who you would want to spend time with outside of your wedding day is ideal!

4. Budget

While it’s tempting to cut corners, investing in an experienced elopement photographer ensures you’ll have stunning photos to look back on for years. Trust me, it’s worth it. I’ve heard stories from couples in the past who regretted hiring a “cheap” photographer because they hate their wedding photos. This is the one thing you’ll have left from your wedding day to remember it by. If having beautiful photographs to remember your elopement by is important to you, please make the investment and don’t cheap out on this one thing!

What Makes Elopement Photographers Different?

Elopement photographers are more than just photographers. They often act as planners, location scouts, and hype squads. For example, an Adirondack elopement photographer can recommend the perfect hidden trail for a sunrise ceremony. Meanwhile, a Florida elopement photographer might know the best beaches for a private sunset celebration. They should help you plan your day so you have the best lighting, incredible views, and have an amazing time celebrating in a way that’s authentic to you and represents your relationship.

Helpful Tips for Booking Your Elopement Photographer

1. Have a Vision: Know the vibe you’re going for—whether it’s an adventurous mountaintop ceremony, a laid-back beachside elopement or an epic destination elopement in Iceland!
2. Check Reviews: Reading past client reviews can give you insight into what it’s like to work with a photographer.
3. Communicate Clearly: Share all the details of your day, including your timeline, must-have shots, and any special moments you’re planning. If you need help, ask! That’s what we’re here for!
4. Ask for Recommendations: Photographers often work closely with other vendors and can suggest florists, officiants, and more.
5. Book Early: Did I mention this already? Because it’s THAT important!

Let’s Make Magic Together!

Ready to start your elopement adventure? Whether you’re dreaming of golden Adirondack views, warm Florida beaches, or icebergs on a blue lake in Iceland, booking your elopement photographer is a crucial step in making your day unforgettable. I hope these tips for booking your elopement photographer were helpful!

Looking for inspiration? Check out my elopement portfolio to see some of my favorite moments.

Need help planning? Head over to my blog for more elopement tips for helpful advice.

Wherever you choose to say “I do,” your love story deserves to be captured beautifully. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s chat and make your elopement dreams a reality!