Having shot a great many elopements, the recurring mistakes are rarely technical. Almost always, it’s direction and communication.

Leaving a client to figure out what to do with themselves, rather than directing constantly and gently, is the most common one, and treating every elopement the same regardless of the brief runs a close second, since it skips the one question that actually shapes a good session: what the images are actually for. Going quiet after the shoot doesn’t help either.

None of these require more skill to avoid, just more attention to the person in front of the camera.

See also: Do I need to prepare anything before my elopement?.

For everything this post didn’t cover, including current pricing, the Elopements & Small Weddings page has the full picture, or reach out directly and ask.

FAQs

Quick answers, no fluff.

How much coverage do we actually need?
Usually two to four hours is plenty for a small wedding, covering getting ready, the ceremony and a short portrait session afterwards.

Is this cheaper than full wedding coverage?
Generally yes, since the hours and deliverables are smaller. The same unposed, journalistic approach still applies, just scaled to the size of the day.

Further reading

Worth reading next.

• Booking an elopement in Clapham: what to know
• What to wear for an elopement, and what to avoid
• Can I request a specific style or mood for my elopement?
• Editorial vs traditional: which style suits your elopement?