You’ve decided to elope (hell yes), and now it’s time to find the person who’s going to document the day in a way that feels like you—not like a stiff, awkward, overly-posed copy of someone else’s Pinterest board.
But with about a thousand people calling themselves elopement photographers these days, how do you know who’s actually a good fit?
Here’s what to look for (and what to avoid) when choosing the third wheel to your elopement.
TL;DR: Look for someone who gets your vibe, knows their stuff, and can actually guide you—not just take pretty pictures.
What to look for in an Elopement Photographer (If you’re not picking me sad face)
Okay just poking, I know I’m not everyones photographer and I can’t be. There are a lot of different art styles and personalities out there for everyone. That is what makes humans so fricken fascinating. We’re all on this floating rock together loving each other for different vibes.
But truly, let’s dive into some big green flags on picking your elopement photographer.
1. Someone Who Feels Like a Good Personality Match
You’re going to spend your whole damn day with this person. If they don’t feel like someone you’d want to grab tacos or hike a mountain with? Keep looking.
Signs they’re your people:
- You laugh reading their website (Or honestly this blog post – hey hi)
- You feel seen by the way they talk about elopements
- You can picture hanging out with them without it being weird
You don’t have to be BFFs for life—but this is an intimate, emotional day. You deserve someone who puts you at ease and hypes you up like it’s their job (because it kinda is).
2. Actual Elopement Experience (Not Just a Pretty Feed)
Not all wedding photographers are cut out for elopements. It’s a totally different pace.
Your elopement photographer should be:
- Comfortable in outdoor conditions (weather, hiking, logistics)
- Good at reading the room and adapting quickly
- A planner, timeline builder, and creative problem-solver
- Excellent at communication (Because they might be one of your only vendors)
You want someone who’s done this a lot—not just once last summer in Yosemite.
Not saying you can’t be new to elopements, we all start somewhere.. just if they are new, make sure they have that passion for being there with you!
3. Someone Who Helps You Plan, Not Just Show Up
The best elopement photographers do more than take photos. They help shape the entire experience.
When you work with me, I:
- Help pick your location(s)
- Build your timeline
- Recommend vendors
- Offer backup plans for weather or crowds
- Give you all my nerdy logistics spreadsheets & google docs full of planning help
I’m not just showing up with a camera—I’m your go-to person from inquiry to gallery delivery. I care deeply about your experience, not just the end result.
4. Photos That Feel Like You
Look through their portfolio and ask yourself:
- Do these images feel natural, emotional, real?
- Can I picture myself in these photos?
- Do the couples look relaxed and like themselves?
My goal? To make sure your gallery feels like your relationship. Fun, warm, maybe a little goofy, always intimate. No stiff poses, no copy-paste moments.
5. Someone Who Has Your Back
Elopement days are full of little decisions and unpredictable moments. You want someone who:
- Advocates for your boundaries
- Advocates for your relationship (because your love matters OUT LOUD)
- Protects your timeline and peace
- Reads the vibe when your parent starts asking for 400 family photos
- Carries snacks (yes, really—I’m that girl)
You’re not just hiring a vendor. You’re hiring someone who will go to bat for you so you can stay present.
TL;DR: The Right Photographer Makes Your Elopement Feel Like You
At the end of the day, this isn’t about hiring the trendiest or cheapest person. It’s about hiring someone who makes you feel safe, seen, and celebrated.
You’re not just planning a photo op—you’re planning an experience. And the right photographer helps you live it fully.
Let’s Make Some Magic Happen
If you’re looking for someone who gives a hoot about your day, takes planning off your plate, and captures every hilarious, heartfelt, hot-mess-in-the-best-way moment—let’s talk.
Reach out here and let’s start dreaming up a day that feels like you from top to bottom.
What to look for in an elopement photographer // Jamie Tobin Photography // Download my free guide to How to Elope
