So you’re looking FOr a Utah Elopement Photographer…
YOU’RE ELOPING!!! (Can I get a HELL yeah?)
I’m so excited for you, and so proud of you for doing this, because let’s be real… eloping is about your LOVE, and less about proving your love with a big SHOW. (Don’t get me wrong, we love both… but something about elopements screams genuine, beautiful, lasting love, and I am HERE FOR IT.)
So you’re at the next phase, looking for someone to join you and document this thing. How do you find the best elopement photographer for you?
Well, first of all, you’ve come to the right place if you like moodier, emotional elopement photography. Second of all, if that’s not your thing, that’s ok. I’m here to help you with your next steps, regardless of what kind of elopement photographer you’re looking for .
What qualifies someone as a great elopement photographer?
Experience with elopements in various climates, weather, and lighting
Has business insurance and ability to prove said insurance to the area you are hoping to elope
Experience obtaining elopement permits
Knows how to make their clients feel comfortable, and provide a great elopement experience
Knows the area you’re eloping at, and helps with planning steps along the way
Has a contract, and is prompt with emails and staying connected with couples
Has a photography style you resonate with
If you are looking for a Utah elopement photographer, you have lots of options! There are various places couples love to elope, and the scenery in Southern Utah is very different from Northern Utah. You’ll want a Utah elopement photographer who is familiar with the area you’ll be eloping, and can help you with the planning process, as well as obtaining permits for your elopement.
Are you hoping to elope during a busy time in the summer? You’ll want an elopement photographer who knows where to go and at what times to avoid huge crowds.
Are you hoping to elope at a Utah National Park? There are restrictions throughout the year, and some can be challenging to get a permit for. Make sure you find a Utah elopement photographer who knows the ins and outs and is willing to help you make the process smooth.
Planning your elopement
Find an elopement photographer who is familiar with your lodging options, dining options, and vendors who are close by. If you’re not familiar with Utah, you may think you’re hiring a wedding vendor who is close to your elopement site, only to find out they live 3 hours away and can’t travel to your destination, or charge a hefty travel fee.
Collaborate with your elopement photographer to make sure both of your expectations are clear for how your elopement will go, and what moments are important to you.
Can your elopement photographer officiate or do you need to bring someone who is ordained to officiate?
Are you doing a symbolic elopement or eloping and also obtaining a marriage license? Your elopement photographer should be able to help you with these questions, and should know beforehand if you need the ceremony officiated, or if it is symbolic only.
Deciding on a Style
What elopement photography style do you resonate with? Do you like bright and airy and creamy tones? Do you like moodier images with deep tones and emotive storytelling? Do you like something more rustic and country feeling, with warm sepia-like editing?
Ask your elopement photographer if you can view several FULL galleries of elopements they have photographed, ideally in similar places to the one you’re eloping at. Some photographers choose to only advertise styled photoshoots, and use paid models to advertise their wedding photography, and it’s important to see what their work looks like for their paying clients. And if it matches your expectations and resonates with you.
Come up with a Budget
You’ll be saving SO much money on a venue and catering by eloping. So focus on your love story and what is important to you. I may be biased, but I recommend splurging on elopement photography and videography, as well as your experience and location. Then work your way through the list of details you need. Trust me, the permit for eloping is SO much less than any venue I have photographed weddings at. You can afford to splurge a bit on your elopement. Make it special, because it truly IS special.
If you are eloping in Utah and are on the hunt for an experienced elopement photographer, and you like candid and emotional photos with personality, fill out that inquiry form babes, and let’s chat!
Datura Photo (Jules) is an award winning wedding and elopement photographer in Utah, the PNW, and worldwide.