You’re planning an elopement—which means you’ve already ditched the rulebook. But now you’re wondering: do you really need a whole day of coverage if you’re not doing a traditional wedding?
Short answer? If you want a no-rush, fully-you, wildly memorable experience… yes.
Let’s talk about what full-day elopements actually look like—and why they’re way more than just an extended photo session.
TL;DR: Full-day elopements give you space to slow down, be present, and soak in every part of your wedding day—from quiet coffee to golden hour to stargazing.
First of All: What Even Is a Full-Day Elopement?
We’re talking 8–12 hours of coverage that’s built around your actual day—not someone else’s template.
This might include:
- Getting ready together or separately
- Reading private vows in a quiet forest
- Hiking to a cliffside or swimming under a waterfall
- A cozy picnic lunch or private chef dinner
- Exploring multiple locations (because why not?)
- Stargazing, sunset dancing, or a hot tub sendoff
The goal? To capture your full story—not just the ceremony.
Why Most Couples Regret Short Coverage
If you think 1–2 hours is enough, here’s what gets left out:
- The buildup: the nerves, the laughter, the quiet moments
- The celebration: popping champagne, calling your family, eating cake with your hands
- The in between magic: those candid, unscripted moments that you can’t plan
When you only photograph the ceremony, it flattens the experience. But when you give it time, the whole thing becomes a memory you’ll feel again—not just remember.
Full-Day Elopements = Flexibility + Freedom
One of the best things about a full-day elopement? You don’t have to rush. And you can build in space for:
- Weather shifts
- Midday naps or downtime
- Changing locations
- Snack breaks (vital)
- Moments to actually be alone together, not just perform for the camera
You can breathe. Be present. And trust that I’m capturing the story while you live it.
What You Could Do with a Full Day
Let’s play:
Morning:
- Sleep in or drink coffee on the lanai
- Get ready with intention (film, details, music, no stress)
- First look in the rainforest
Midday:
- Explore a black sand beach
- Read vows cliffside
- Share a snacky lunch picnic
Evening:
- Sunset portraits on a mountaintop
- Private chef dinner
- Stargazing with blankets + Polaroids + vinyls playing (Taylor Swift naturally)
It’s your day. You get to dream it—and I’ll help you build the timeline that makes it real.
TL;DR: You Deserve More Than a Tiny Time Slot
This isn’t just a photoshoot. It’s your actual wedding day. And if you want the whole thing to feel like an experience, not an errand, full-day coverage is where it’s at.
It’s not about filling time. It’s about creating space.
Ready to Dream Big (and Small) for Your Elopement Day?
If you want a photographer who helps you plan the whole day—not just show up for the vows—I’m your girl. From hiking boots to beach hangs to firelight first dances, I’m here for it all.
Reach out here and let’s make your full-day elopement one for the books.
Free Elopement Guide // Jamie Tobin Photography
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