Spoiler alert: it’s not just snapping cute photos on a mountaintop and calling it a day. If you’re wondering what hiring an elopement photographer actually includes—especially when it’s an all-day or multi-day experience—you’re in the right place.
Let’s break it down: here’s what I really do as your elopement photographer (and lowkey, your honorary planning partner).
TL;DR: An elopement photographer helps plan your timeline, location, permits, and vibe—then documents it all like the memory-preserving wizard they are.
Want my full Series on eloping in certain locations? I did all your homework!
Hawaii – https://jamietobinphotography.com/hawaii-elopement-how-to-guide/
New Hampshire – https://jamietobinphotography.com/elope-in-new-hampshire-step-by-step-guide-with-locations-packages-tips/
1. I’m Your Planner, Guide, and Hype Person
Booking me isn’t just about showing up with a camera. I help with:
- Choosing a location that fits your vision and season
- Building a flexible, stress-free timeline
- Recommending trusted vendors (florals, HMUA, private chefs, etc.)
- Helping you figure out permits, rules, and Leave No Trace practices
- Giving you travel tips, trail info, and local insights
Basically, if you’re asking “how the heck do we do this?”—I’ve got you.
2. I Capture the Story (Not Just the Ceremony)
Eloping isn’t just one moment—it’s the whole day:
- Getting ready together (or separately with a first look)
- Reading private vows on a cliff or at sunrise
- Popping champagne in hiking boots
- Sunset portraits, stargazing, swimming, journaling—whatever makes your day you
I photograph the full story so when you look back, you remember how it felt, not just what it looked like.
3. I Keep It Real and Low-Key
I’m not going to bark orders or make you hold a pose until your face goes numb.
Instead, I gently guide with prompts that:
- Feel natural (even if you’re telling me you’re awkward on camera at your consult)
- Give you space to be present
- Let real moments unfold (think movement, emotion, connection)
You won’t be watching the clock or cycling through a Pinterest checklist—you’ll be having a freaking great day, and I’ll be capturing all of it.
4. I’m There Before, During, and After
Before:
- I help you plan it all out
- You get a custom location + timeline guide
During:
- I capture the magic + help you stay grounded
- I have snacks, tissues, extra hair ties—you name it
After:
- I deliver sneak peeks fast
- You get an online gallery, print rights, and often 35mm film + behind-the-scenes moments (because yes, I shoot hybrid!)
TL;DR: What You’re Really Hiring
You’re not just hiring someone to show up and press a button. You’re hiring a calm presence. A timeline wizard. A built-in adventure buddy. A visual storyteller. A human who’s all in on helping you feel seen, celebrated, and documented.
Ready to Elope Without the Stress?
If you want a photographer who helps with more than just the pictures—someone who gets the vibe, builds the plan, and makes you feel like your weirdest, realest self is fully welcome—I’d love to talk.
Reach out here and let’s start dreaming up the kind of day that’s 100% you.
Keep Reading:
Jamie Tobin Photography // Free Elopement Guide Download
