Words by: Rebel Copy Co.

One of the biggest myths about elopement weddings is that you don’t need a photographer. Okay, I may be a bit biased here (being a wedding photographer myself, ahem) but I would argue that good documentary photography is actually even more important at an elopement wedding than a bigger event.

Hear me out with this. When I got married in Vegas, it was an elopement wedding. We couldn’t afford a photographer. But at the time we thought “It doesn’t matter, we will still have the memories”. A good friend of ours happened to take five photos that I will cherish for all time. Seriously, I LOVE those pictures so much. But… I really, really wish I had more!

So, I’m breaking down some misconceptions about wedding photography at an elopement…

“The guest list is super small…”

Just because your guest list is shorter than a TikTok, it doesn’t mean your elopement wedding day should be less special or memorable than a trad wedding. In fact, with less distractions, less stress, and waaay less to coordinate… Elopement weddings are usually more romantic and intimate anyway.

Rather than having to formally schedule a couple’s shoot in the middle of the day, the whole wedding day is pretty much just the two of you doing your thing, being in love. Getting some beautiful and seriously natural images to capture the day will really celebrate the individuality of your elopement and couple style.

“But won’t it be awkward to have a photographer?”

I get it, if it’s a relaxed and chilled day, with a small guest list… The idea of having a stranger tagging on can feel a bit awkward. I think this is where choosing the right elopement photographer is key – not every wedding photographer out there would feel super relaxed at an elopement wedding.

Choose a photographer that values candid shots and is down for a more flexible itinerary. Whether its that little shared look during the wedding ceremony, the tears of joy as you say ‘I do’ or just the laughter as you walk out of there with your fancy new rings; Candid photography is an absolute must-have for an elopement.

A real key here is to hire a photographer that you feel comfortable with. Most photographers are happy to schedule a phone call or zoom call before booking – see what the vibe is and how well you hit it off with them. Basically: could you go out for a drink with this person? A zoom or phone call is something I offer to all my couples (feel free to have a look at my photography enquiry process here). Making a choice that you’re happy with is crucial.

“But there won’t be enough for the photographer to capture…”

This is something that I thought about my own wedding. I was worried that my wedding day was too simple and there wouldn’t be enough to document. But the great thing about elopements and intimate weddings is that a photographer can be so much more intentional!

You can take the time to get the perfect shot, right when the setting is nice and peaceful, or wait for the rain to pass without stressing about the time (or go dance out in that rain and not stress about the rest of the day after). You can pop to the pub for a swift one, go for a walk, or spend all your change at the arcades… Whatever suits your personality as a couple, the photographer can be there to capture it. Plus if you’re a bit of an introvert, it really helps to relax knowing that you can take your time until you feel comfortable in front of the camera.

The elopement wedding day doesn’t have to be as long as a full wedding, and most photographers will offer a simple elopement package in view of this. Check out my packages – my Small and Cosy photography package might be the one for you!

So, whether you’re having a fun elopement in Brighton with a stroll down the pier (like this pair in the styled shoot), a stylish and intimate wedding in the city, or standing on the top of a mountain in Scotland, make sure you have the right photographer with you to capture those beautiful and once-in-a-lifetime moments. Whatever your style, whatever your plan for the day… Keep those memories to treasure forever!

Nat x

LILLY

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