What to consider when hiring a local Colorado Elopement Photographer

If you’re a couple planning to Elope in Colorado you’re most likely digging through the long list of local and destination photographers trying to narrow down your top choices and make a decision. This blog will help guide you in that process and give you some things to think about when choosing your Elopement Photographer.

Should I hire a local colorado elopement photographer?

This is a top question to answer and by far one of the most important ones. Here’s the deal, destination elopement photographers are capable of helping you plan and photograph your elopement in Colorado but if you can choose between the two I would recommend choosing a local photographer. You might ask why and be tempted to hire someone from out of state that’s advertising elopements for cost of travel.

Let’s break it down a bit.

Colorado Elopement Photographers have tons of experience

When you’re planning your elopement and it’s going to be outside in the Rockies, it’s crucial to work with someone that not only has experience shooting in Colorado mountain weather but knows what to expect and can help prepare you. For example, I’ve heard horrible stories of couples flying into Colorado not realizing that in the Spring the trails will still be snow packed and it’s possible to experience snow, freezing rain and even hail. This lead the couple scrambling to buy winter boots, jackets, hiking gear etc

Colorado Elopement Photographers know how things work in the mountains

Whether it’s prepping you for the high elevation and thin air or simply understanding that 2 hours from Denver to Breckenridge, doesn’t actually mean that unless you’re driving at 3AM. These are the little things that make a big difference when choosing someone you can count on to photograph and help plan your elopement.

Can a Colorado Photographer provide a packing list for my elopement?

A local photographer can speak from having extensive experience and tell you what to wear, what to pack and what to expect when you elope in the rockies.

Do I need a permit to elope in Colorado?

A local photographer should also know about regulations regarding elopements and any permits that might be required. They should also be respectful of the local terrain and practice LNT (leave no trace) when photographing your day. For example if you elope in Rocky Mountain National Park you’re not allowed to throw flowers, rice or petals on the ground in the park. You could face fines or potentially be asked to leave the park. These are things you need to know!

Do I need a backup location for my Colorado Elopement?

The short answer to this question would be, yes you do need a backup plan. Whether that’s your Airbnb, a venue or flexibility to reschedule on a different date etc. You and your photographer should always have an attentive plan on what to do if weather prohibits you from eloping on your booked date.

How do I choose a good Colorado elopement photographer?

This one is a little tough as what you think is ‘‘good’’ might be the opposite of someone else but let’s break it down the best we can. A good photographer is going to have experience and be willing to share full galleries for you to look over. They will also have a streamlined process to share how they work, what to expect and how to book them. They will also have YOUR interest as their top priority over expanding their portfolio. And they will be respectful, professional and someone that you’d like to work with from start to finish.

How can I trust a colorado elopement photographer that I haven’t even met?

This is such a fair question and one to be taken lightly. You should start by looking on social media to learn about the photographer. Take a few minutes to look on Google to see if you can find reviews left by other couples. Look at full galleries and pay attention to how the photographer works in different lighting and weather situations. Spend sometime to get on a call or meet over coffee to make sure that you’re comfortable with each other.

What if I don’t want to hike for my Elopement in Colorado?

Adventure Elopement Photographers kind of exploded over night and honestly I’m seeing only a few of them still hanging around. It’s a big marketing push that for you to adventure or have an epic day you have to go on some extensive hike to get that experience. There is truth in being able to get away from the crowds on busy trails and hiking is awesome, but it’s not for everyone and it’s not required to have an amazing elopement in the Rockies.

You don’t have to hike to get epic elopement photos

In short, the above title says it all. There are tons of options with no hiking or minimal hiking for you to pick from for your elopement. To add to this never let a photographer, planner or social media push you into celebrating in a way that’s not you. E.g. if you hate hiking, don’t hike. If you don’t like the cold, don’t choose late Fall, Winter or early Spring to Elope in Colorado. (at least in general)

How do I navigate no cell service areas for my Colorado Elopement?

This is a good question to ask especially if you are getting off the grid a bit and will be away from cell towers. You really can’t count on your phone GPS for navigation and should always print off maps of directions. I also suggest photographers to set a back up plan if for some reason you can’t find each other by x time meet somewhere else close by that has cell service.

I’d also recommend using an app like All Trails that allows you to download a route and access it even without cell service. It’s super cool and can even nudge you if you start to get off trail