Choosing the right elopement photographer for your day isn’t just about finding someone with a fancy camera and a good portfolio—it’s about finding someone you genuinely vibe with. Think about it: this person will be with you during some of the most intimate and emotional moments of your life, so you want to make sure you click with them.
When you find a photographer whose personality, style, and approach resonate with you and your partner, the whole experience becomes way more enjoyable and relaxed. This means more natural, authentic photos that truly capture your love story. In this blog, we’re diving into what it means to vibe with your photographer and sharing some tips on how to find that perfect match. Let’s get into it!
Tips for Finding a Photographer You “Vibe” With
Know Your Style & Editing Preferences
When it comes to choosing a photographer, style is everything. It’s not just about how the photos look—it’s about how they feel. Take some time to really dive into different elopement photographers’ portfolios, paying close attention to the nitty gritty in their work. Do you find yourself drawn to candid, documentary-style images that capture the raw, unfiltered emotions of the day? Or do you prefer more posed and stylized shots that focus on the perfect composition and lighting? Maybe you love the timeless feel of light, airy photos, or perhaps you’re more into the moody, dramatic editing that adds a touch of mystery to every shot.
Understanding your preferences isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about envisioning how you want your day to be remembered. The style of your photos will reflect the tone of your elopement, whether it’s laid-back and spontaneous or meticulously planned and elegant. Think about how you want to feel when you look back at these images years from now. Do you want to see candid moments that make you laugh and cry, or are you looking for something more polished and editorial? Also, consider the editing style—do you prefer natural, true-to-life colors, or are you drawn to a more artistic, moody vibe?
Choosing a photographer whose style aligns with your vision ensures that the final photos will not only look amazing but will also evoke the emotions and memories you want to cherish forever
Communication is Key
One of the most overlooked aspects of choosing a photographer is communication, yet it’s one of the most important. Your photographer will be with you through every step of your elopement, from the planning stages to the big day itself, so it’s crucial to establish a strong line of communication from the get-go. Start by scheduling a call or meeting with potential photographers to get a sense of how well you connect. This isn’t just about talking logistics—it’s about feeling out their personality and seeing if you click.
During this initial conversation, pay attention to how the photographer listens to your ideas and responds to your questions. Are they attentive and engaged? Do they seem genuinely interested in your vision for the day? A good photographer will make you feel heard and understood, and they’ll be able to offer suggestions and insights that enhance your plans rather than overshadow them.
We always jump on a Zoom call with our couples for this exact reason. We want to make sure that we all vibe together because, at the end of the day, your photographer should feel like an extension of your friend group—someone you trust and enjoy being around. This kind of relationship not only makes the planning process smoother but also ensures that on your elopement day, everyone is relaxed, having fun, and focused on what really matters: celebrating your love story.
Ready to see if we vibe?
It’s super important for us to make sure that we’re all on the same page so we always jump on a discovery zoom call right off the bat! The more comfortable you two are on your elopement day, the better and it will show in your photos. Let’s set up a time to talk so we can get to know each other and answer your questions.
Check for Compatibility When Choosing the Right Elopement Photographer
Professional skills and artistic talent are essential, but they aren’t the only factors to consider when choosing your elopement photographer. Compatibility—both in terms of personality and values—is just as crucial. Your photographer will be with you during some of the most intimate and emotional moments of your life, so it’s important that you feel comfortable and at ease in their presence.
Think about it this way: your photographer is going to witness—and document—moments that are incredibly personal, whether it’s the exchange of vows, a quiet moment together after the ceremony, or the joyful tears that might fall throughout the day. If you feel awkward or uncomfortable around them, it will show in the photos. On the other hand, if your photographer feels like a friend who truly understands you, the photos will capture the genuine emotions and connections of the day.
Consider whether you share similar values or interests with your photographer. Do they understand your vision for the day? Are they excited about the same things you are? Do they have a laid-back, adventurous spirit that matches your own? Finding someone who gets your vibe can turn what could be a stressful day into one that’s filled with laughter, joy, and unforgettable memories.
Read Reviews and Testimonials
While portfolios can give you a sense of a photographer’s style, reading reviews and testimonials provides insight into what it’s actually like to work with them. Previous clients’ experiences can be incredibly telling, often highlighting aspects of the photographer’s approach and personality that you might not get from looking at their work alone.
When reading reviews, pay attention to how clients describe their interactions with the photographer. Do they mention feeling at ease, relaxed, and comfortable? Was the photographer able to capture their true selves, even if they were camera-shy? Look for mentions of how the photographer handled any challenges or unexpected situations—this can be especially important for elopements, where plans can change quickly and flexibility is key.
At Scenic Vows, we’re proud of the feedback we’ve received from couples who often mention how stress-free and enjoyable the experience was from start to finish. We aim to create an atmosphere where you can be yourselves, without feeling like you’re constantly in front of a camera. Positive testimonials that highlight these qualities can give you confidence that you’re making the right choice when it comes to choosing your photographer.
The proof is in the pudding! (or in the Google reviews)
We are those people who read Google reviews before making a purchase or deciding on where to eat for dinner. Reviews say a lot about a company or service so go ahead and check ours out!
Ask The Elopement Photographer About Their Approach
Every elopement photographer has a unique approach to planning and shooting elopements, and understanding this approach is crucial for finding someone who aligns with your vision. Some photographers take a very hands-on approach, guiding you through every step of the planning process and offering advice on everything from location scouting to timelines. Others might prefer to take a step back, allowing the day to unfold naturally and capturing moments as they happen without much direction.
We’re all about being involved in the planning process. We help our couples with everything from choosing the perfect location to recommending activities and vendors that will make the day special. We’re there to assist with permits, marriage licenses, and timeline creation, ensuring that your day goes smoothly and that you can focus on what really matters—enjoying every moment together. On the day of the elopement, our approach shifts to a more unobtrusive style, allowing the magic of the day to unfold naturally while we capture those candid, authentic moments.
When talking to potential photographers, ask them about their approach. How involved are they in the planning process? Do they prefer to direct poses or capture moments as they happen? Understanding these details will help you determine if they’re the right fit for your elopement.
Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, one of the most important factors in choosing your elopement photographer is trusting your gut. You might find someone with a stunning portfolio and glowing reviews, but if something doesn’t feel right, it’s worth paying attention to that feeling. Your elopement is one of the most personal and intimate experiences of your life, and having a photographer who feels like a friend can make all the difference.
Think about how you feel after interacting with the photographer. Do you feel excited and confident about the idea of them capturing your day, or are there lingering doubts? If you can see yourself laughing, sharing stories, and genuinely enjoying their company, you’re probably on the right track. On the flip side, if you feel hesitant or unsure, it’s okay to keep looking until you find someone who feels like the perfect fit.
Choosing a photographer isn’t just about the photos—they’re also there to support you, keep things light and fun, and help make your elopement day everything you’ve dreamed of. When you trust your instincts and choose someone who makes you feel comfortable, confident, and cared for, the result will be beautiful, meaningful photos that you’ll treasure forever.
Ready to start planning your own elopement?
We are so excited to help you start dreaming up your own elopement day. Not only are we here to capture every moment, but we’re also here to help make those dreams come to life!
