So, you’re thinking about eloping. First of all, hell yes. Let’s ditch the stress of planning a massive wedding with a 200-person guest list, overpriced chair rentals, and traditions you don’t even like. Instead, you’re carving out a day that’s entirely yours—a celebration of your love, your quirks, and your you-ness. But wait—what the hell do you actually do with an entire eight hours of elopement photography? Don’t worry. I’ve got you.
Let’s walk through how we can turn your 8-hour elopement into the best damn day of your life—filled with laughter, love, and kick-ass photos that feel like you.
The Elopement Timeline: A Day That Feels Like Home
The beauty of an elopement is that the rules are out the window. No rushing between hair appointments and stiff family portraits, no waiting an hour to cut a cake because “that’s how it’s done.” Instead, your timeline is as flexible as your vibe.
Here’s a sample timeline to give you an idea of how we can fill those eight hours without breaking a sweat:
Getting Ready: 1–2 Hours
This part is low-key but so damn important. It’s the calm before the celebration. Whether you’re slipping into a custom suit, a bold AF dress, or something non-traditional like matching leather jackets, this time is about capturing those intimate, pre-ceremony moments. I’ll focus on the details—like your killer shoes or a close-up of your vows—and those candid shots of your chosen family hyping you up.
Oh, and if you want some Las Vegas-style fun photos in Missouri (yes, it’s totally possible!), now’s the time to throw on the Elvis sunglasses and pop some champagne. This isn’t your average “getting ready” session—it’s your story.
First Look or No Look? Your Call: 30 Minutes
If you’re into the idea of a first look, this can be one of the most emotional parts of the day. Picture this: your partner sees you for the first time, and it’s not in front of a crowd of people—it’s just the two of you. Quiet. Personal. Absolutely unforgettable.
Not feeling a first look? Cool. We’ll capture those moments of anticipation before you meet at the altar (or the backyard, or the courthouse, or the top of a goddamn mountain). No pressure. No expectations. Just vibes.
Ceremony: 20–30 Minutes
Your ceremony is short, sweet, and entirely about you. Want to read your own vows? Do it. Planning to include a random inside joke or two? Hell yes. This is where you set the tone for your day. We’ll capture every laugh, every tear, and every moment of connection. And because I specialize in true-to-life wedding photography, your photos will feel as vibrant and real as the emotions you’re feeling.
Why You Should Carve Out Time for What Matters
One of the biggest perks of an elopement? You don’t have to cater to anyone else’s expectations. That means if you want to spend an hour eating tacos in your wedding clothes, we’ll make it happen.
Explore Together: 2–3 Hours
Let’s take a break from the formalities and do something that feels like you. Whether it’s exploring your favorite hiking trail, wandering through a quirky downtown, or recreating Las Vegas-style fun photos in Missouri (yes, the Midwest can be weird and wonderful too), this time is about soaking in the day together.
As your artistic wedding photographer, I’ll be there to guide you through the best lighting, angles, and spots for editorial wedding photos that will make you feel like rock stars. No awkward poses. No forced smiles. Just authentic wedding photography that reflects your unique love story.
Why I’m Your Wedding Photographer
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But won’t I feel awkward in front of the camera?” That’s where I come in. My approach to relaxed wedding photography is all about making you feel like yourselves. I’ll direct you just enough to ensure we get the shot, but I’m not here to turn your day into a stiff, awkward photoshoot.
Instead, think of me as your hype person, creative director, and honorary third wheel. Want photos that scream “us” instead of “Pinterest-perfect”? You’re in the right place.
Dinner Break: 1–2 Hours
Yep, you get to eat. Imagine that. Whether you’re grabbing burgers from your favorite dive bar, setting up a candlelit picnic, or booking a table at a trendy restaurant, this is your chance to kick back and enjoy the day. I’ll capture the clinking glasses, the laughter, and all those moments that feel like home.
Sunset Magic Hour: 1 Hour
Golden hour is where the magic happens. This is when we’ll capture those romantic, editorial wedding photos you’ve been dreaming of—photos that feel vibrant, colorful, and timeless. We’ll play with light, shadows, and movement to create images that look like they belong in a magazine but feel like you.
Dancing Under the Stars: 30 Minutes
Want to end the day with a bang? Let’s turn on some string lights, crank up your favorite playlist, and capture you two dancing like no one’s watching. Because, honestly, no one is. You’ve ditched the crowd, remember? This is your moment to soak it all in.
Making It Stress-Free
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: planning a traditional wedding is stressful as hell. But an elopement? That’s where the magic of simplicity comes in. Here’s how we keep your day easy-breezy:
- No Guest List Drama: Instead of worrying about seating charts and plus-ones, you’re focusing on you two.
- No Traditions You Hate: Not into cutting a cake or tossing a bouquet? Skip it. This day is about your love story, not a checklist.
- Flexible Timeline: Want to spend more time exploring or less time on formal photos? Done. It’s your call.
Timeless vs. Trendy Wedding Photos
Let’s pause for a second to talk about the difference between trendy photos and timeless wedding photography. Trends come and go, but your photos should age as gracefully as your love. That’s why I focus on creating true-to-life wedding photography that’s vibrant, colorful, and uniquely you.
Think about it: do you really want to look back in 20 years and wonder why your photos are all muted beige? Or do you want photos that make you feel alive, like you’re stepping back into the moment? Yeah, that’s what I thought.
How to Make Your Wedding Photos Personal
Your wedding photos shouldn’t look like everyone else’s. Here are a few ways we’ll make sure they feel like you:
- Incorporating Your Style: From your outfits to the location, every detail should scream you.
- Capturing the Real Moments: Laughing, crying, dancing like fools—those are the moments that matter.
- Highlighting Your Personality: Whether you’re quirky, romantic, or a little bit of both, your photos will reflect the vibe you bring.
Ready to Create Some Magic?
Eloping isn’t about running away—it’s about running toward something better. A day that feels vibrant, alive, and true to you. As your non-traditional wedding photographer, I’m here to make sure your love story is captured in all its wild, wonderful glory.
If this sounds like the kind of day you’ve been dreaming of, let’s chat. Together, we’ll create a set of photos that feel as timeless as your love—and just as colorful.
Because your wedding photos deserve to be more than just “content.” They deserve to be art. And you deserve a day that’s unforgettable.
