Your elopement day is a special and intimate moment that you’ll want to remember for the rest of your life. Choosing the right photographer is crucial to capturing those precious memories. In this guide, we’ll go over the key factors to consider when selecting an elopement photographer, from their style and experience to their personality and pricing.

Determine your style and preferences.

Before you start searching for an elopement photographer, it’s important to determine your own style and preferences. Do you want a photographer who specializes in candid, documentary-style shots or someone who can create more posed and stylized images? Do you prefer bright and airy photos or moody and dramatic ones? Consider the overall aesthetic you’re going for and look for photographers whose portfolios align with your vision. It’s also important to think about the type of experience you want to have with your photographer. Do you want someone who will blend into the background and capture candid moments or someone who will take charge and direct you for more posed shots? Make a list of your must-haves and deal-breakers to help narrow down your search.

Research potential photographers and their portfolios.

Once you have a clear idea of your style and preferences, it’s time to start researching potential photographers. Look for photographers who specialize in elopements and have experience shooting in your desired location or have a portfolio showing they travel an are able to capture images in different landscapes and lighting conditions. Check out their portfolios to get a sense of their style and see if it aligns with your vision. Look for consistency in their work and make sure they have a variety of shots, including both candid and posed images. Don’t be afraid to reach out to them and ask for more examples of their work or to schedule a consultation to discuss your vision and see if you’re a good fit.

Consider their experience and expertise in elopement photography.

When choosing an elopement photographer, it’s important to consider their experience and expertise in this specific type of photography. Elopements often require a different approach than traditional weddings, as they are typically more intimate and focused on the couple’s desired activities rather than the guests. Look for a photographer who has experience shooting elopements and understands how to capture the unique moments and emotions of the day. They should also be familiar with the logistics of elopements, such as navigating remote locations and working with limited timeframes. Elopements can also require more work ahead of time and help location scouting from your photographer.

Check their availability and pricing.

Before committing to a photographer, it’s important to check their availability for your elopement date and their pricing. Make sure their rates fit within your budget and that they offer packages that meet your needs. Remember though, this is not an area that I’d recommend skimping on, so be realistic with your needs and desires when it comes to setting your budget! Some photographers may offer additional services, such as prints or albums, so be sure to ask about those options as well. It’s also a good idea to clarify what is included in their pricing, such as the number of hours of coverage and the number of edited photos you will receive. You can also ask for customized packages that fit your specific needs.

Schedule a consultation and ask important questions.

Once you have narrowed down your list of potential elopement photographers, it’s important to schedule a consultation with each of them. This will give you the opportunity to ask important questions and get a better sense of their personality and style. Some questions to consider asking include: What is your shooting style? How do you handle unexpected weather or lighting conditions? How many weddings have you shot? By asking these questions, you can ensure that you are choosing a photographer who is not only skilled but also a good fit for your personality and vision for your elopement.