So you've decided you want to elope! I couldn't be happier for you! And, I'd love to make some suggestions to really give yourself the best possible photos. These 7 simple things can make a huge difference in how your photos turn out.
#1 Timing
Ask your photographer about their recommendations on timing for your specific location. If you will be outside in the mountains, sunrise or sunset will serve you well. Your photos will likely be more beautiful when the light is soft. Here in southwest Colorado, we rarely have a cloudy day, so the light is really harsh and the mountains are over exposed most of the day. But, it's important to consult your photographer because sunrise and sunset are not always the best option. If you are indoors with windows facing a certain direction, or if you're in a canyon, you'll want to choose a time of day with more ample light. Err on the side of caution and ask what they recommend for the best possible photos.
#2 Location
Consult with your photographer on locations that will give you the best results. Court house photos are fun, but fluorescent lights generally aren't the best for your photos. Some time spent in nature can really level up your photos. Your photographer should have some tried and true locations that they know well.
#3 Music
I highly recommend bringing a little speaker and downloading songs on your phone that are really special to the two of you. I want to capture the emotion of your day, and music can be a really easy way to get y'all in to that present space with each other.
#4 Flowers
There is something magical that a big bouquet brings to your photos. Since you're already saving money on skipping the big wedding, I definitely recommend investing in a flower crown, bouquet and boutonnière. You can preserve your flowers or press them as a keepsake afterwards!
#5 Cake + champagne
Please bring these 2 things! I love a good champagne pop and pictures of the two of you eating cake. They are both really fun additions to your time together.
#6 Dramatic dress or veil
When you have a long flowy dress or veil, there are so many more possibilities for epic photos. The way the camera catches the movement of the fabric can really enhance your photos. You can find a $15 veil on Amazon and the longer the better! I can't emphasize this one enough. I wish every bride brought a veil for at least a few photos. The nice thing is that as soon as it gets cumbersome, we can take it off.
#7 High stoke level to co-create art with your photographer
When you come into your elopement shoot worried about your dress getting dirty or your hair getting tossed in the wind - that worry will be visible in your photos. On the flip side, when you come into your shoot excited to create art - magical things happen and that also shines through in the pictures. Trust your photographer, try silly poses, take off your shoes, put your feet in the water, climb up a rock, lay in the wildflowers. The best photos come when clients feel good with their photographer and work together as a team to get the best photos possible.