and Why Choosing the Right Elopement Photographer Matters

When you start planning your elopement, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing the right elopement photographer. It’s not just about beautiful photos (though you’ll absolutely want those!). It’s about finding someone who feels like the right fit — someone you can laugh with, trust, and spend one of the most important days of your life alongside.

And here’s my unpopular opinion: I don’t say yes to every couple who reaches out to me.

And here is why this is actually a good thing:

Your Elopement is Too Important for “Just Okay”

Your elopement is not a photoshoot with a stranger. It’s a day filled with emotions, inside jokes, private vows, and once-in-a-lifetime memories. And your photographer? They’ll be with you from sunrise coffee to the last champagne toast under the stars. Unlike a big wedding, your elopement day won’t have a crowd of family and friends around you. Instead, your photographer steps into that role of support — and therefore the connection between you and him/her should feel just as genuine as with your family.

If the connection isn’t there, it shows. The experience feels forced. The photos feel less authentic. And you deserve so much better than “just okay.”

The experience matters

When you read through reviews that couples leave for their photographers, there’s a clear pattern: 90% of the words are about the experience. How supported they felt, how the photographer went out of their way to create something unique, how easy and stress-free the day was. Only at the very end do they mention how beautiful the photos turned out — almost as an afterthought.

That says it all: long after your elopement, what you’ll remember most isn’t just the images themselves, but how you felt while creating them. The experience is what stays with you.

Connection is Everything

I believe your photographer should feel like a trusted friend. Someone you’re completely comfortable crying, laughing, and hiking next to. When we click, it creates space for you to be fully present in the moment — which means I can capture those candid, emotional images you’ll cherish forever.

That’s why connection isn’t optional. It’s everything. This is why choosing the right elopement photographer is essential.

Why I Sometimes Say No

Just last week, I turned down a very sweet couple. They were kind and humble, but deep down, I knew we weren’t the right fit. Some of our values didn’t align, and without that spark of connection, I couldn’t promise them the 5⭐ experience I give to every couple I work with.

Saying no wasn’t easy. But I’d rather step aside and let them find someone who’s perfect for them than accept their money and risk them having anything less than an amazing day.

Money Matters… But It’s Not My “Why”

Let’s be honest: photography is also a business, and yes, earning money is part of it. But it’s not the reason I do this.

I do this because seeing couples happy, carefree, and deeply present with each other fills me with joy. This job ticks all of the boxes I want to have in a job. Not just financially, but more importantly on an emotional level. I get to help people create such amazing once-in-a-lifetime experiences, capture those genuine emotions that come from this, be there for the couple throughout the entire process, feel needed and cherished for everything I do. This fills my cup. Seeing my couples happy makes me happy. This is my WHY. Not the money.

I thrive on creating an experience where your elopement feels like an adventure, not a photoshoot. The photos are the legacy, but the experience is what makes the story unforgettable.

Tips for Choosing the Right Elopement Photographer

If you’re currently searching, here’s what I recommend:

✨ Don’t just compare prices. Ask yourself: Do I connect with this person?
✨ Imagine spending 8–12 hours hiking, driving, or exploring together. Would it feel easy and fun?
✨ Look for someone who shares your values and understands your vision.
✨ Pay attention to their energy — do you feel seen, supported, and understood?

When you find the right fit, you won’t just get stunning photos. You’ll get a stress-free, joy-filled experience that feels 100% you.

Read more about how to choose a photographer for your elopement HERE.

When We Do Click

Here’s the exciting part: when we do click, I give you everything I’ve got. I block out several days just for you. I scout your trail ahead of time, build backup plans, pack snacks and hand-warmers, and bring all my energy so you feel completely cared for. You’ll have my full attention, help, access to the insights of my full-of-ideas-brain. I only take on 20 elopements per year to be able to give this kind of personalized approach to each and every one of my couples.

The result? Couples often tell me they’d give me a 5-star review based on the experience alone — before they’ve even seen their photos. That’s the kind of magic that happens when you choose the right elopement photographer.

Final Thoughts for choosing your elopement photographer

At the end of the day, eloping isn’t about following rules or checking boxes. It’s about creating a day that feels like the perfect reflection of your love. And that starts with finding the right people to walk alongside you. So if you’re dreaming of an adventure elopement and this resonates with you — if you’re looking for someone who values connection, adventure, and an unforgettable experience above all else — I’d love to connect.

💌 Inquire About Your Elopement

P.S. These stunning photos are from Kadri & Simon wedding in Thailand 🤍

Other blog posts you might be interested in:

How your photographer’s approach defines your entire experience
How to choose a photographer for your elopement
Should we hire a videographer for our elopement?
How long does it take to plan an elopement?