10 Questions You Need to Ask Before Booking Your Elopement Photographer

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Chelsea Stanford

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December 26, 2024

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Eloping is all about throwing out the rulebook and making your love the main character. But even when you’re keeping it simple, there’s one big question: How do we find the right photographer to capture it all? Here are ten fears and questions you might have, and how I can help answer every single one (with a sprinkle of fun).

1. “Will you capture the vibe of our elopement?”

Your elopement isn’t about following someone else’s script—it’s about the two of you doing your thing, your way. Whether that’s saying “I do” with wind whipping through your hair on a cliffside or stealing a kiss under the neon glow of a dive bar sign, your day should feel unmistakably yours. That’s exactly how your photos will feel too. I capture bold, vibrant moments that tell the truth of your love story—no stiff poses, no clichés. Just images that make you say, “Damn, that’s us.”


Taken by Chelsea Stanford

2. We’re nervous… What if we’re awkward on camera?

Here’s the thing: you’re probably not awkward—you’re just human. My job is to help you forget the camera is even there. We’ll joke, move around, and embrace those quirky moments that make you, well, you. By the end, you’ll have photos that feel so naturally cool and effortless, you’ll wonder how you ever thought you’d look anything less. Nervous wreck? Nope—just pure magic captured on camera.


3. “How involved will you be on the day?”

Picture me as the ultimate third wheel—the kind who knows exactly when to jump in and when to melt into the background. Need a little guidance to feel comfortable? I’ve got you. Want to just be in the moment without thinking about the camera? Done. I strike the perfect balance between giving direction and letting the magic unfold naturally. You just focus on doing your thing, and I’ll make sure every moment is captured in a way that feels authentic, effortless, and sooo fucking you.


Taken by Chelsea Stanford

4. “What happens if something doesn’t go to plan?”

Rainstorm rolling in? A gusty wind messing with your hair? Or maybe your original spot just isn’t vibing, and you’re on to Plan B (or C). Bring it on. With over a decade of experience, I’ve learned to thrive on the unexpected and turn curveballs into creative gold. Your elopement isn’t about everything going perfectly—it’s about the raw, real connection between you two. Whether we’re dodging raindrops in the Ozarks, getting eaten by giraffes, or chasing sunset light in downtown Springfield, I’ll roll with whatever comes our way and make it unforgettable.


5. “We’re not traditional—can you handle that?”

BABE! Nontraditional is my middle name (jk… it’s Ann). Whether you’re swapping vows on a misty mountaintop, scribbling them on a diner napkin, or trusting your dog to officiate, I’m all in. This isn’t about the picture-perfect wedding magazine spread; it’s about capturing your love story in all its beautifully chaotic, unapologetically quirky glory. From the Ozark trails to a cozy Springfield dive bar, I’m here to turn your unconventional day into art that feels as unique as your love.


Taken by Chelsea Stanford

6. “We want crazy photos, but also the candid unposed ones. Is that cool?”

Absolutely! My style is all about blending the best of both worlds—editorial and documentary. I’ll pose you when needed for those super graphic ultra-modern (Chappell Roan reference, anyone?) and chic shots that feel like they belong on the cover of a magazine. But it doesn’t stop there. I’m also all about capturing those in-between moments—the quiet, tender exchanges you didn’t even know were happening. Your photos will have that perfect mix: bold, artistic shots paired with genuine, unposed moments that tell the real story of your day.

Don’t worry about any awkward poses. We’ll keep it chic, badass, and, most importantly: natural. Some moments are better when they flow without direction, and I’ll be there to document every bit—whether you’re tying the knot on a cliffside in the Ozarks or in a cozy Springfield loft. Trust me, the mix of magazine-worthy shots and candid memories is exactly what will make your elopement album feel as unique as your love.

Taken by Chelsea Stanford

Photo taken by Chelsea Stanford

7. “What if we want to include friends or family?”

I get it!! Elopements aren’t always just about the two of you—and that’s what makes them even more beautiful. Whether it’s a handful of your favorite people or a sidekick in the form of your dog, I understand how to perfectly balance the intimacy of your elopement while also making sure everyone who matters most gets captured. Plus, group shots? I’ve got you. I know how to wrangle everyone for a quick, fun shot without turning it into a “forced smile” nightmare. You can relax, your crew will look great, and the blissful vibe of the day won’t miss a beat.


8. “How soon will we get our photos?”

I know you’re dying to see those moments, and I don’t make you wait forever. Expect a sneak peek the night of your ceremony to get those first feels, followed by a full gallery delivered within 6-8 weeks. But here’s the best part: when your gallery is ready, I’ll invite you back to my private studio in downtown Springfield, MO and throw you a gallery reveal party so we can relive the day together—favorite treats, maybe a little champagne, and all the magic from your day on full display. The goal? To let you dive back into every laugh, tear, and perfectly imperfect second ASAP, surrounded by your favorite people.


9. “What makes you different from other elopement photographers?”

I don’t just take photos—I create a vibe. Your day is yours, not some contrived shoot. From the loud bursts of laughter to the quiet, tender moments, I capture it all in a way that’s as effortless as it feels. I blend creative techniques like double exposures and direct flash with a laid-back, humor-filled approach that puts everyone at ease. Think of me as the third wheel who’s always in the background, making sure you’re comfortable and enjoying the hell out of your day—no awkward posing, just real moments that look as chill as they felt.


10. “How do we know you’re the right fit?”

Bestie, if you’ve made it this far, you’re already halfway there. Your elopement is about so much more than just having a beautiful album to show off—it’s about sharing an unforgettable experience with the person you love, and feeling completely at ease while doing it. That’s where I come in. I’m all about making sure the process feels natural and fun, not forced or stressful. From your first “I do” to the last champagne toast, I’ll guide you through it all with zero pressure, a ton of humor, and just the right balance of professionalism to keep everything running smoothly.

Here’s me in a walk-in freezer cooling off with my couple after tearing up the dancefloor, non-alcoholic IPA in hand.

Eloping is the ultimate “us against the world” moment, and your photos should reflect that. So, ready to make some unforgettable memories? Let’s chat and make your wildest (and weirdest) elopement dreams come true.

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