Thinking of Eloping? Here’s Everything You Need to Know (From an NSW Elopement Photographer)

Eloping isn’t about running away anymore.It’s about choosing intention, intimacy, and a wedding day that actually feels like you.

If the idea of a big wedding feels overwhelming, performative, or just not your thing, eloping might be the best decision you make. And if you’re not quite sure where to start, you’re not alone, most couples I speak to feel exactly the same way at the beginning.

This guide is here to break it all down simply, honestly, and without the pressure.

What Is an Elopement, Really?

An elopement is an intimate wedding experience focused on the two of you, and optionally a small number of your closest people.

It might be:

• Just the two of you

• You plus 2–20 guests

• A courthouse ceremony

• A scenic outdoor location

• A relaxed Airbnb morning followed by vows and portraits

There’s no strict rulebook. That’s the beauty of it.

Elopements give you space to slow down, be present, and actually enjoy your wedding day without the stress of hosting a large event.

Why More Couples Are Choosing to Elope

Most couples I photograph say the same things:

• They don’t want a rigid timeline

• They don’t want to spend the day greeting guests

• They want the day to feel meaningful, not rushed

• They care more about the experience than the spectacle

Elopements allow you to focus on what matters most. Your connection, your commitment, and the moment itself.

No pressure. No expectations. No doing things “just because”.

What an Elopement Day Can Look Like

There’s no one-size-fits-all elopement day. That’s kind of the point.

A typical elopement might include:

• Getting ready together or separately at an Airbnb

• A simple ceremony or vows

• Time to wander, explore, or sit and soak it in

• Portraits that feel relaxed and natural

• A celebratory drink, picnic, or dinner

You don’t need to fill every minute. A slower pace allows the day to unfold naturally, which always leads to better memories and better photos.

I help couples create timelines that feel calm, flexible, and true to them.

Do We Need a Venue to Elope?

Not always.

Elopements work beautifully at:

• Courthouses

• Airbnb properties

• Private land or farms

• Scenic outdoor locations

• Small venues designed for intimate weddings

When choosing a location, I help guide couples based on:

• Guest numbers

• Accessibility

• Light and timing

• The overall vibe you want

You don’t need to have everything locked in before you reach out. That’s part of what I help with.

What Should We Wear for an Elopement?

There are no rules, but there are smart choices.

I always recommend:

• Outfits you can move comfortably in

• Shoes you can walk in, even briefly

• Fabrics that feel good and photograph well

• Layers if the weather is unpredictable

Elopement photos shine when you’re relaxed and comfortable. You should feel like yourself, just elevated.

I’m always happy to offer outfit guidance if you need it.

Do We Need Other Vendors?

That depends on the experience you want.

Some couples keep things minimal. Others choose to include:

• A celebrant

• Hair and makeup

• Florals

• A small cake or picnic setup

I can recommend trusted local vendors who understand elopements and keep the experience low-stress and relaxed.

How Much Photography Time Do We Need?

Most elopements fall into one of these categories:

• 2 hours – perfect for a ceremony and portraits

• 4 hours – a relaxed, story-driven experience

• Half day – slow, immersive, no rushing

You don’t need to overbook time “just in case”. I’ll help you choose what fits your day and your plans best.

What It’s Like Working With Me

My role goes beyond just showing up with a camera.

I:• Help plan timelines

• Guide you gently without stiff posing

• Keep things calm and grounded

• Capture real moments as they happen

No awkward instructions.No forced smiles.Just honest, emotional images that feel like you.

How to Book Your Elopement

I take on a limited number of elopements each year so every couple gets my full creative energy and attention.

If you’re:

• Recently engaged

• Planning something intimate and intentional

• Wanting photos that feel natural and meaningful

I’d love to hear from you.

You can enquire via my website or DM “ELOPE” on Instagram to check availability and receive my full elopement guide.

Final Thoughts

If you’re worried about:

• Doing it “wrong”

• Letting people down

• Not knowing where to start

That’s completely normal.

Eloping doesn’t mean your wedding matters less.It means it matters more.

And you don’t have to figure it out alone.