How much photo coverage do you need? While this is a super common question the answer can vary from couple to couple. Most couples book me for “Whole Day Elopements” with an average of 12 hours of coverage.

Yes, 12 hours is the average! But, it really isn’t as long as it seems. Wedding days go by in a flash!

Let me walk you through some of the things we cover in a call when helping couples answer the dreaded question: How much photo coverage do you need for an elopement?

Is A Whole Day Elopement Right For You?

I get it, planning a whole day elopement seems wild, but traditional weddings typically take all day, right? So, why rush your intimate adventure to just a few hours?

Some photographers offer packages as small as just 2 hours, I don’t simply because I think its impossible to tell a love story in just two hours of coverage, but if that’s what you’re looking for there are photographers out there that offer it.

However, its pretty safe to say if you are here reading this you already know that telling your love story is a work of art, and it deserves its whole moment to shine. So, I do offer half day elopements for those planning mini adventures either at sunrise or sunset, with a quick getting ready moment and a ceremony. These are about 4-6 hours long.

Whole Day Elopements are for those who want to really enjoy their adventure, and tell their story in its entirety. These days are about 12 hours and take you from getting ready in the wee hours of the morning all the way to dancing under the stars. Or, you could start your day with a hiking adventure to a secluded oasis and get ready there, and then have a ceremony and enjoy a picnic as the sun goes down. The possibilities are truly endless.

For most people choosing to elope, you’re in a new and exciting place. You’re exploring the world with the love of your life. The adventure you are about to go on is on the horizon, and the day though long, will pass in the blink of an eye. Having me there for the whole adventure will bring so much value to that final gallery, and will really give us the opportunity to tell your story.

Describe Your Dream Day

Examples of Whole Day Elopement Timelines

Sounding better all the time, but still not sure how to fill up a whole day of amazingness? That’s ok! I’m here to help with that part.

The coolest part about working with me is that you don’t have to take on any of this on, on your own. No matter what it is you want to fill your day with, I am here to help you figure it all out.

Let’s look at an example of a real Whole Day Elopement from this summer!

Kate + Ryan’s All Day GNP Elopement

Kate and Ryan had the most magical fairytale of a day, and it all started at this tiny little treehouse in the woods and ended with dinner as sunset at one of GNP’s most epic spots. Here’s how it looked:

• 8:00 am – I arrived at the treehouse with donuts and Dr. Pepper to document a relaxed morning.
• 9:00 am – Hair and Makeup artist arrived to help Kate get ready
• 10:30 am – Kate and Ryan helped each other with final touches, and we grabbed a few portraits
• 11:00 am – We headed to Glacier National Park and drove to our first adventure spot.
• 12:00 pm – Kate and Ryan headed down the first trail to McDonald falls where they danced and explored. Yes, you can take time to just explore this beautiful place together before your vows.
• 1:00 – 4:00 pm – We drove along Going To The Sun Road and made a handful of stops to hike and explore. It was so fun to have this time to reflect on the moment that was coming, and gave them a chance to slow down and enjoy it before it all whisked away.
• 5:00 pm – We hiked to the ceremony location and Kate and Ryan along with their officiant had a beautiful ceremony surrounded by the St. Mary Lake and the towering mountains right as the sun started to dip into the sky for the perfect sunset.
• 6:00 – 7:00 pm – Kate and Ryan enjoyed a picnic. Yes a whole ass beautiful little dinner right there in the mountains.
• 8:00 pm – We ended the day with another short little walk back to the ceremony spot for some sunset photo and wrapped it all up with lantern photos in blue hour.

See how each part of the day just flew right into the next. The only downtime there was, was in the car getting from one place to another. Even in that downtime we were celebrating. Laughing and giggling, telling stories and enjoying the day as a whole.

See Kate & Ryan’s Gallery Here

Want more or less?

While whole day elopements are my most booked options, I do have a few other options as well! Sometimes when traveling couples will want to spread coverage over 2 or more days, or if there only in for a short weekend trip and rather have more time alone, they may opt for a half day option.

Here are a few examples of possible timelines for those:

But, won’t it be awkward?

Ooh, this is one of my favorite things to talk about. When you book me for your elopement, or even your traditional wedding I become so much more than just your photographer. GIRL…we are going to talk. We are going to spend weeks, and months getting to know each other. Each of my clients get access to my email and my cell number, and I not only hope, but expect, them to use it. I have joined in on calls and conversations with other vendors, helped select florals, and dressed. I want to be there for you through the whole thing.

On top of the friendly stuff there’s the actual planning. I’m super involved in that aspect to so we will have plenty of time and opportunity to get to know each other. When I was with Kate and Ryan this summer there was no awkward silence, in fact, it was like riding with life long friends in the Montana wilderness. A true adventure with besties!

Still looking for your Photographer?

Rather you know how much coverage you want or even if you don’t, getting in touch with me can be the first step in figuring it all out! No matter where you are in your planning there is no better time than now to get in touch with a photographer, not only willing, but eager to help you through the whole thing!

Let’s chat about your epic elopement dreams today!