As a documentary wedding and elopement photographer, my mission goes beyond capturing beautiful images—it’s about preserving the essence of your unique love story, the genuine moments that make your day truly unforgettable. I want to share what being a documentary elopement photographer means to me and how I approach a wedding or elopement day, focusing on key principles that guide my work. Let’s dive into those details below! 

USING YOUR TIMELINE AS A GUIDE 

Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I understand the importance of savoring every moment. Instead of adhering to a strict schedule, I encourage my couples to see the timeline as a flexible guide. Your day should unfold organically, allowing for spontaneity and the freedom to linger in moments that resonate with you. It’s your day, your way—whether you want to change things up or take extra time to immerse yourself in the joy of the celebration. 

EMBRACING THE REAL AND RAW | DOCUMENTARY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER 

Documentary elopement photography is about capturing your day without interruption or intrusion. It’s about embracing the authenticity of fleeting moments and preserving them. I believe in observing as a documentary wedding photographer rather than directing, allowing your day to unfold naturally. There’s beauty in the unscripted, the unposed—a sincerity that cannot be replicated in staged shots. 

OBSERVING AND ANTICIPATING MOMENTS 

My eyes are always scanning for those fleeting moments and subtle emotions that tell your story. I anticipate the laughter shared between loved ones, the stolen glances, and the quiet moments of reflection. By staying attuned to the emotions in the room, I ensure that every moment is captured, creating a visual narrative that resonates with the depth of your connection. 

LEAVING SPACE FOR YOU TO RELAX AND ENJOY YOUR DAY

Amidst the whirlwind of emotions, I create a space where you can breathe, relax, and enjoy the moment. Your day is not just about the photographs; it’s about savoring each precious instant with your partner and loved ones. I strive to fade into the background, allowing you to immerse yourselves fully in the joy of the day. 

NOT TAKING A BUNCH OF PORTRAITS IF YOU DON’T WANT TO

Your comfort and desires are most important. If you prefer spending more time with loved ones than posing for portraits, that’s perfectly okay. I am committed to capturing the moments that matter most to you, whether they involve candid interactions or more posed portraits. It’s about your preferences and ensuring your gallery reflects the genuine essence of your day.

CAPTURING THE LITTLE DETAILS | DOCUMENTARY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER 

It’s often the little details that hold the most significance. From the intricate lace of your dress to the gentle caress of your partner’s hand, these subtle nuances tell a story of their own. I pay special attention to these small yet significant elements, as they tie your gallery together. 

ACCEPTING THAT NOT EVERYTHING NEEDS TO BE 100% UNPOSED AND CANDID 

I understand that not everything has to be completely unposed and candid. Many couples feel unsure about posing for photos, and that’s perfectly normal. I’m here to guide you through the process, ensuring you feel comfortable and natural. While I love capturing candid portraits, I also love incorporating editorial-style images. These photos add a touch of elegance and go so well with the documentary approach. If you’d like traditional wedding party and family photos as well, I am fully open to that! It’s about finding the right balance between real moments and curated portraits. 

In essence, being a documentary wedding and elopement photographer is not just about capturing images; it’s about preserving memories, emotions, and the raw beauty of your day. As your documentary wedding photographer, I am honored to bear witness to your love story and to capture the essence of your day, one frame at a time. 

Ready to book your own documentary wedding photographer next? 

Count me in! I specialize in authentic storytelling elopement experiences and I’m down to document your story wherever your love takes you. Hawaii, Yosemite, MN north shore, JoshuaTree, and beyond! Need a guide on how to plan the perfect Yosemite elopement? Check out my Taft Point Yosemite Elopement Guide where I dive into everything you need to know! Or, check out my How to Plan the Perfect Hawaii Elopement blog post for some more tips! Learn more about my process here. If you think I’d be the perfect photographer for you, then let’s connect! I can’t wait to hear all about what makes you unique and dream up something authentic and special.