The photographer you choose can really make or break your elopement experience. Finding the right one can feel overwhelming at times, especially when there are so many options out there. And, if you’re queer, working with someone who creates a safe, affirming space can make all the difference (but it can also be difficult to find). 

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to choose the perfect LGBTQIA+ elopement photographer, covering key questions to ask, what to look for in packages, and some red flags to avoid.

Why Do You Need an Elopement Photographer?

Since elopements are all about ditching rigid wedding traditions, you can technically do whatever you want, including when it comes to hiring an elopement photographer (or not). While hiring a photographer is totally up to you, having one can really enhance your experience and bring something special to your big day.

Elopement photographers capture the emotion, in-between moments, and all the little details that make your day worth remembering. They can also play a huge role in the planning phase and walk you through logistics. Think of us as your helping hand throughout the process, from the moment we agree we’re a good fit for each other to the moment you get your elopement photos in your hands. We can provide location-specific advice, help you get permits, provide tips for structuring your day, help you create a backup plan, and more! 

While most people do choose to hire an elopement photographer, others might be on the fence, especially if they’re planning a low-key ceremony and don’t want to make a big show of it. But the truth is that no matter how low-key or elaborate your elopement plan is, it should still feel special. Even if you have a simple plan, such as a quick courthouse elopement, having professional photos can elevate the experience and add a personal touch because, after all, you’re celebrating your love and commitment to each other (and that’s something worth celebrating and having permanent memories to look back on). 

What to Look for in an LGBTQIA+-Affirming Elopement Photographer

For queer folks, choosing the right LGBTQ+ elopement photographer is a big deal. They’re the person who will capture your love in a way that feels true to you. Here’s what to look for when searching for the perfect fit:

1. A Portfolio That Matches Your Vibe

Every photographer has their own style. Some are all about dramatic, moody shots, while others go for cozy and warm vibes. Take time to look through their portfolio. Do their photos feel authentic? Do the couples look comfortable? Imagine yourself in their images—do you love what you see?

2. A Photographer Who Actually Celebrates LGBTQIA+ Love

Representation will always matter. If a photographer has never worked with LGBTQIA+ couples (or if their portfolio only has one token queer couple), that might be a red flag. Look for someone who proudly features LGBTQ+ love stories in their work. Bonus points if they’re part of the community themselves because this means they’ll most likely naturally understand the nuances of queer relationships and what makes them special.

3. A Comforting and Judgment-Free Experience

You want a photographer who makes you feel like you can show up as yourself. That means no awkward posing that assumes gender roles, no assumptions, and no hesitations about your love. Also, make sure they’re mindful of pronouns and honor the way you express your gender and relationship.

4. An Approach That Fits Your Elopement Vision

Some photographers have niche approaches to elopements. For example, some might focus exclusively on extreme adventure elopements while others offer a breadth of approaches that include peaceful nature backdrops and cozy, intimate celebrations. Make sure their approach aligns with your vision. 

Consider all angles. For example, do they help with location scouting? Will they hike with you at sunrise? Do they support elopements that are chill and non-traditional? The right photographer should be just as excited about your plans as you are!

5. Packages That Make Sense

Elopement packages vary a lot, so look closely at what’s included. Do they offer full-day coverage or just a few hours? Are travel costs included? Do they provide planning help or vendor recommendations? A good photographer will also be upfront about pricing and make sure you know exactly what you’re getting when you have your consultation.

6. Reviews from Couples

Testimonials can tell you a lot about what it’s like to work with a photographer. Look for reviews from other couples (bonus points if you can find reviews from other LGBTQ+ couples). Did they feel safe, seen, and celebrated? Were they happy with their experience from start to finish?

7. Someone You Actually Like

Your elopement photographer will be with you for some of the most intimate moments of your day. This one might seem a bit obvious, but you should actually like them! Have a conversation with them before booking—do you click? Do they feel like someone you’d enjoy spending the day with? This is especially crucial because you won’t be taking photos the entire time you’re together. Some of the time may also consist of hiking, hanging out, and chatting, so you want to make sure you can vibe in those moments too!

What to Look for in Elopement Packages

Some photographers offer full-day storytelling, while others provide just a couple of hours of coverage. Some include planning help, while others focus purely on capturing the day. To find the best fit for your elopement, here’s what to look for in a package:

1. Hours of Coverage

Think about how much of your elopement you want documented. Do you want just a portion of your day with your photographer? Or do you want the full experience, from getting ready to a champagne toast under the stars? Many elopement photographers offer flexible options, from shorter four-hour sessions to full-day coverage.

2. Location Scouting and Planning Help

A great elopement photographer often does more than take photos. They can also help you find the perfect spot for your vows. Some packages include location scouting, vendor recommendations, and timeline planning, which can be invaluable, especially if you’re eloping somewhere new.

3. Travel Fees & Additional Costs

If you’re eloping in a remote or out-of-state location, check whether travel costs are included or if they’re added separately. Some photographers have all-inclusive pricing, while others charge for mileage, flights, or accommodations.

4. What’s Included in the Final Gallery

Ask how many edited photos you’ll receive and in what format. Do you get a set number of images, or is the full gallery included? Will you have access to high-resolution downloads, or do prints cost extra?

Questions to Ask Prospective LGBTQ+ Elopement Photographers

Once you’ve found a photographer (or a few) who seem like a great fit, it’s time to ask some questions! A quick chat—whether over email, video call, or coffee—can help you figure out if they’re truly the right person to capture your elopement. Most photographers will also offer a free consultation, which provides the perfect opportunity to lay out your questions. Consider asking a wide range of questions across various categories:

LGBTQ+ Inclusivity & Experience

• Have you worked with LGBTQIA+ couples before?
• How do you approach posing for LGBTQIA+ couples?
• How do you create safe and inclusive spaces?

Photography Style & Approach

• How would you describe your photography style?
• Do you prefer giving lots of direction or capturing candid moments?
• Do you have experience shooting in our ideal location/setting? (Note: A photographer who has experience in your ideal location can help plan the best spots for your ceremony and shoots. However, if they don’t have the experience, it doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker. Instead, ask them about how they go about researching locations and advance. Whether they have experience or not, the key is to look for indicators that they will be proactive).

Elopement Packages & Logistics

• What’s included in your elopement packages? (Think: hours of coverage, location scouting, travel fees, number of edited photos, etc).

Backup Plans & Problem-Solving

• What backup plans could we have in the event of bad weather or unforeseeable circumstances?
• What happens if you’re unable to make it last minute?

Booking & Communication

• How far in advance should we book?
• Do you require booking deposits?
• What’s your cancellation policy?
• How do you handle communication leading up to and during the elopement?

Red Flags to Look For

Not every photographer will be a good fit for you. You might decide they just don’t match your vibe or you might come across more overt red flags, such as:

1. Lack of LGBTQ+ Representation in Their Portfolio: If a photographer claims to be inclusive but has little to no LGBTQ+ couples in their portfolio, that’s a sign they might not have real experience working with queer couples—or worse, they’re just saying what they think you want to hear.
2. Gendered Posing and Language: Watch out for photographers who assume traditional gender roles in posing or use language like “bride and groom” without considering your actual relationship dynamic. A truly inclusive photographer will ask about pronouns, avoid assumptions, and make sure your love is captured authentically. You can also gauge some levels of inclusivity based on their website content and inquiry forms.
3. Vague or Unclear Pricing: During your consultation, if a photographer is hesitant to provide clear pricing or has a lot of hidden fees, that’s a red flag. A good elopement photographer will be upfront about costs so you know exactly what you’re getting before you book.
4. Poor Communication or Unprofessionalism: If they take forever to respond, are unclear about their process, or make you feel like just another booking, it’s probably not a great match. You deserve someone who’s just as excited about your elopement as you are!

What I Offer

As a queer elopement photographer, my mission is to create an inclusive, safe, and personalized experience for every couple. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy, intimate ceremony in a Minnesota state park, an adventure-filled day along the North Shore of Lake Superior, or an elopement in Michigan’s breathtaking landscapes, I’m here to help bring your vision to life.

What You Can Expect

• LGBTQ+-Affirming: As someone in the LGBTQIA+ community, I ensure your elopement is a safe and celebratory space. I take the time to get to know you so that from start to finish, you’ll feel comfortable and seen throughout the elopement process.
• Customized Location Scouting: Together, we’ll find the perfect spot for your elopement, whether it’s a hidden gem or a more well-known location. Being from Minnesota, I know many great spots and will help you choose one that matches your vibe and reflects your love story.
• Planning Support: From timeline assistance to vendor recommendations and location scouting, I’ve got you covered. I’ll help make your day flow smoothly, and hopefully make the planning process a little less stressful!
• Sneak Peeks and Next-Day Photos: A lot of couples get really excited and can’t wait to see their photos. I get it—I’d be the same! I’ll send you sneak peeks the very next day, so you can relive your magical moments right away.
• Custom GIFs: I can create fun, personalized GIFs so you can relive those special moments in motion!
• Vendor & Permit Support: I can also help with logistics planning, whether you need help with permits for specific locations or finding the right vendors. I know some great local vendors who will be more than happy to work with you and celebrate your love.
• Personalized Elopement Timeline: I can also help you create a timeline that works with your elopement visions, including a backup plan in case of weather or other unpredictable circumstances.

If you’re ready to start planning your elopement, reach out to me! I offer a free consultation and will share my pricing and package inclusions. Once we decide we’re a good fit for each other, I’ll be here for support from beginning to end. 

I can’t wait to work with you!