How to Find the Best Elopement Photographer Near You

Jamie Tobin Photography

AUTHOR

FILED UNDER

Elopement Advice and Tips

Date Posted

August 6, 2025

Even If You Don’t Know What You’re Looking For Yet

You’re Googling like a maniac. You’ve pinned 47 dreamy forest weddings and cried over a beach vow video you weren’t emotionally prepared for. And now you’re stuck on one very real question:

How the hell do I actually find the best elopement photographer near me?

Let’s break it down—because finding the right person to document your day isn’t just about pretty pictures. It’s about trust, energy, and choosing someone who gets what this whole eloping thing really means.

TL;DR

What to look for in the best elopement photographer near you:

Emotional connection + aligned vibes
Experience with full-day, documentary-style elopements
Knowledge of your location + permits, weather, logistics
Clear pricing and full transparency
Glowing reviews from other couples
Someone who guides you—not just shows up with a camera

→ Need an example? Click here for my full pricing + packages

→ Planning in Hawaii or Oregon? Start with my Ultimate Elopement Guide

1. Know What “Best” Really Means for You

The best elopement photographer isn’t the one with the biggest Instagram following or fanciest drone shots. It’s the one who…

Makes you feel comfortable AF on your weirdest days
Knows how to guide a timeline that flows, not overwhelms
Captures you—not just the views

Before you even start reaching out to people, ask yourself:

Do we want someone more documentary or editorial?
Do we care more about emotion, or aesthetics (or both)?
Are we eloping in a spot that needs expertise (like a National Park)?

Personality plays such a huge role because your elopement photographer is going to be a huge planner help and making sure everyone can vibe together will make your day go smoother!

2. Stalk Their Portfolio—But Go Deeper

Look past the highlight reel. You want to see full-day coverage, real moments, and work that shows storytelling, not just epic portraits.

Check for:

Photos that make you feel something (not just look good)
Consistency in editing + lighting
Diverse locations and weather conditions
Real elopements—not just styled shoots

Pro tip: If their galleries include getting ready, post-ceremony, private vows, and even the quiet moments in between, you’re probably looking at someone who gets elopements.

3. Read the Reviews Like It’s Your Job

Scroll to the long reviews. You’re looking for words like:

“Made us feel so at ease”
“Helped us plan every detail”
“Captured things we didn’t even realize were happening”
“We cried all over again seeing the gallery”

And if they mention the photographer basically became their therapist/planner/hype woman? That’s a green flag.

I mean… this is what my clients say about working with me:

4. Ask the Right Questions

Once you start reaching out, don’t just ask “Are you available?” Ask things like:

“How do you help guide the day so we’re not stressed?”
“Have you shot in [location] before?”
“How do you work with camera-shy people?”
“Can we see a full gallery of a real elopement?”

These will tell you way more about how they actually show up for their clients.

Also don’t be scared off if they haven’t shot in an exact location. Elopement photographers like myself are experts at location scouting and finding places that are off the normal path. The goal is to make this unique to you not just a copy and paste model.

5. Understand What’s Included in Their Packages

The best photographers are upfront and clear about what’s included (and what’s not). Look for:

Number of hours (pro tip: 9/10 of my couples need 10–12 hours)
Location guidance + permit help
Travel included or additional
Delivery timelines + gallery access
Film, video, or behind-the-scenes extras

You don’t need a spreadsheet, but you do need to know what you’re investing in and whether that person is going to help your day feel like yours, not a rushed checklist.

TL;DR

Finding the best elopement photographer near you means:

Trusting your gut
Prioritizing experience over aesthetics
Choosing someone who goes beyond the camera

And hey, if you’re still not sure who to reach out to?

I specialize in full-day elopements across Colorado, Midwest states, Hawaii, and the PNW. I go where the map ends, and help you build a day that feels just right.