How to Choose the Right Elopement Photographer in Colorado

If you’re planning an elopement in Colorado, chances are you’re skipping the big wedding day in favor of something more intimate, personal, and totally you. And while the guest list might be short and the energy low-key, choosing the right elopement photographer in Colorado is still a big decision. This isn’t just someone showing up with a camera; it’s the person who’s going to help shape your day, calm your nerves, and capture all the real, messy, joyful moments as they unfold.

As someone who’s been a Colorado elopement photographer for, oh, almost 20 years (yes, I started young, thank you for noticing😉), I’ve seen a little bit of everything. Sunrise vows in Rocky Mountain National Park? Yep. Sunrise vows in Rocky Mountain National Park? Yep. A beautiful snowy ceremony that turned into a full-on snowstorm? Also yes. Surprise hail, wildfire smoke, wind gusts strong enough to steal a veil, been there, documented that, and I still have all my fingers (barely).

Bride and groom sharing a kiss atop a rocky mountain overlook at sunset, with dreamy skies captured by an elopement photographer in Colorado.

Couple kisses under the trees along a quiet trail, surrounded by rustic fencing and golden light.

Close-up of the groom holding his partner’s hand gently against his chest, wedding band in focus in a quiet, emotional moment.

So let’s skip the fluff and talk about what actually matters when you’re picking your elopement photographer. Because if you’re here, you’re probably not looking for someone to just show up and snap a few pretty pictures. You want someone who gets it, someone who knows how to roll with the chaos, laugh when plans change, and still deliver photos that make you feel all the things.

What an Elopement Photographer Really Does (Spoiler: It’s Not Just Take Photos)

Sure, we take photos. But honestly? That’s like 40% of the job on a good day. The rest, that’s where the real good stuff (and chaos management) happens. Here’s what a great Colorado elopement photographer brings to the table, besides a camera and snacks in the hiking pack.

Exchanging vows on a dramatic mountaintop, the couple stands with their officiant under a vibrant Colorado sky during their elopement.

A close-up of the couple exchanging rings mid-ceremony, their hands centered as part of their intimate Colorado elopement story.

Location Scouting: Secret Spots Are Kind of Our Thing

Colorado’s packed with jaw-dropping views, but not all of them are elopement-friendly. Some require serious hikes. Others are crawling with tourists. And a few? Total hidden gems that don’t show up in the “Top 10 Colorado Elopement Locations” Google search.

Wide view of a mountaintop ceremony framed by trees and rocks, captured at golden hour by an elopement photographer Colorado couples trust.

One of the best parts of my job is helping couples find their spot, the one that feels right for them. Whether it’s a crystal clear lake you can drive right up to or a tucked-away trail with wildflowers and zero crowds, I’ve got the inside scoop.

Permits: Yes, You Might Need One (and No, It’s Not as Scary as It Sounds)

Sunset peeking through the pines as the couple sits close on a rocky ledge, holding hands and taking in their day.

A tender vow exchange with sweeping mountain views behind them, beautifully documented by an experienced elopement photographer in Colorado.

Bride signs the marriage license with a joyful laugh as the sun filters through the pine trees behind her.

Ah yes, the glamorous world of… paperwork. Most of Colorado’s beautiful spots, national parks, open space trails, scenic overlooks, require a photography permit. And some even cap how many people you can bring, what time of day you can shoot, or whether you can bring your dog (rude, I know).

But don’t stress, I’ve dealt with permits more times than I can count, and I’ll help you figure out exactly what’s needed. You won’t have to Google “do I need a permit to get married in the middle of a forest” at 11 p.m. I’ve got you. I’ve actually got a blog that breaks down all the ins and outs of elopement planning that has more info on permits too. Check it out here!

Timeline Planning: AKA How to Not Be Rushing Around in Hiking Boots

Couple holds hands between two wind-swept trees, standing on rocky ground with mountains in the distance and the sky glowing at dusk.

Emotional vow exchange at sunset, with warm light spilling across the bride’s face and groom holding her hands.

Cuddled close on a rocky ridge, the couple embraces as Colorado’s endless mountains stretch out behind them.

Elopement days might feel more relaxed, but there’s still a flow to them. When should you start getting ready? What time does the sun dip behind that mountain ridge? How long does it take to hike out to the ceremony spot and back without looking like a sweaty mess?

I’ll help you map it all out, leaving plenty of buffer time, room for snack breaks (this is key), and spontaneous detours if something catches your eye. The goal is for you and your partner to enjoy a day that feels easy, unrushed, and honestly… kind of one of a kind!!

Weather Backups: Because Colorado Has 12 Seasons a Day

With the sky on fire behind them, this couple says "I do" on a dramatic overlook with an elopement photographer in Colorado capturing it all.

I’ve photographed vows in golden sunshine, sideways snow, and one very dramatic thunderstorm. Colorado weather loves to keep us on our toes. That’s why I always come with a Plan B. And a Plan C. And snacks for morale if Plan D ends up being “wait it out in the car for 20 minutes.” I’ll help you prepare for whatever the skies throw at us, and still make the photos feel dreamy, not dreary.

Oh, right, Photos! (You Know, the Whole Point)

Framed by a tree in the foreground, the couple stands alone on a rocky cliff during their intimate Colorado elopement ceremony.

Close-up of vows being exchanged with mountains behind them, captured in real time by an experienced elopement photographer Colorado.

Groom placing a ring on the bride’s finger as their officiant smiles behind them—joyful, emotional, and beautifully captured at golden hour.

Mountaintop ceremony as the couple exchanges vows at sunset, with sweeping views captured by an elopement photographer Colorado couples trust.

And yes, of course, I’ll take beautiful, heartfelt, real-as-heck photos. But my favorite shots? They’re usually the in-between ones. The messy, unscripted stuff, the wind in your hair, your partner’s nervous laugh, the hug right after you say “I do.” That’s the good stuff. That’s the story you’ll want to remember.

How to Choose the Best Elopement Photographer Colorado Couples Trust

Before you start asking about gear or packages or whether someone shoots film, take a beat and ask yourself this: What actually matters to me in a photographer?

Because this person isn’t just taking your photos. They’re with you all day, maybe from that bleary-eyed cup of coffee at sunrise to your windblown, grinning last kiss before the hike out. So yeah, the energy and relationship matter. A lot!

Couple stands hand in hand between two iconic trees on a rocky overlook, perfectly framed by their elopement photographer Colorado.

Golden light filters through the trees as the couple shares an intimate forehead-to-forehead moment along a rustic wooden fence.

Do you want someone super directive and structured, or more go-with-the-flow? Do you care about posed portraits, or are you all about the candid, weird-in-a-good-way moments? Do you want your photographer to watch quietly or a hands-on helper who’s going to zip up your dress and fix your flyaways?

There’s no wrong answer, just your answer. And the more clear you are about that, the better your experience (and photos!) will be. Once you’ve got that gut-check done, here’s the practical stuff you’ll want to look for when hiring a Colorado elopement photographer.

Colorado’s a Little Wild, You Want Someone Who’s Been Around the Mountain

Standing on a rugged cliff, the couple embraces as the sun dips low over the Colorado horizon—captured by their elopement photographer.

One minute you’re basking in golden sunshine, the next? A surprise snowstorm. Or wildfire smoke. Or a rogue deer photobombing your first kiss. Colorado doesn’t play, and you need someone who’s not rattled when Mother Nature goes rogue.

Look for someone who’s worked in every season, who knows how to troubleshoot a last-minute trail closure or pivot locations without breaking a sweat. Experience isn’t just about pretty galleries; it’s about knowing how to pivot without panic.

Mountain Light Is Tricky, Your Photographer Should Know When and Where It Hits Just Right

Golden hour is absolutely gorgeous and popular for good reason! But in the mountains, that perfect light disappears fast. Your photographer should know when the sun drops behind a ridge, where the shadows fall, and how to work with alpenglow or blue hour to make magic (not murky, underexposed images). Bonus if they’ve already shot at a bunch of locations around the state and can help you plan with the light in mind.

Let’s Talk Comfort and Connection

Groom plants a kiss on the bride’s cheek as she beams, sunlight glowing around them during their joyful elopement.

Bride walks confidently toward the camera, sunlight pouring in behind her, with her groom watching proudly from the background.

Groom smiles and looks back as he leads his bride through the mountaintop terrain, hand in hand at golden hour.

Fancy gear is great, but honestly? It’s more about how you feel in front of the camera. The best photos happen when you’re comfortable being yourselves, which means finding someone who knows how to make you laugh, chill out, and forget the camera is even there.

If you don’t click with your elopement photographer in Colorado, it’ll show. So prioritize the connection, not just the photos!

Questions to Ask Your Colorado Elopement Photographer

Nestled in the forest, the couple leans in close with warm smiles—just married and soaking in the moment.

High on a rocky overlook, the newlyweds share a quiet hug as the sunset stretches across the landscape behind them.

Okay, so you’ve found a few photographers you like. Their photos are beautiful, their dog has its own Instagram, and their website didn’t make you cringe. Now what? Before you book anyone, ask the questions that actually matter. Not just “what camera do you use?” (unless you’re into that sort of thing). I’m talking about the stuff that affects your real-life experience, how the day will feel, what kind of help you’ll get, and whether this person’s vibe fits yours.

Groom helps his bride navigate rocky terrain in her gown, surrounded by Colorado’s stunning mountain views and documented by an elopement photographer Colorado.

These are the kinds of questions couples actually Google when trying to figure out who to trust with one of the biggest days of their lives:

1. Have you photographed elopements in Colorado before?

Because let me tell you, this state isn’t for the faint of heart. One minute you’re in a field of sunflowers, the next you’re in a snowstorm with a woodland friend eyeing your bouquet. You want someone who’s not just good with a camera but knows how to handle Colorado’s wild weather, weird lighting, and surprise trail closures like a pro.

2. Will you help us find a location and figure out permits?

Bride wraps her arms around the groom from behind, both smiling softly against the backdrop of pine trees and golden-hour light.

The couple locks eyes as golden hour glows around them, smiling in the breeze with snowy peaks in the distance.

Short answer: If they won’t, run. Slightly longer answer: A good Colorado elopement photographer will absolutely help you scout locations that match your vision and guide you through the permit process (because yes, a lot of those dreamy spots require one). You shouldn’t have to play park ranger and wedding planner.

3. Can you help us build a timeline?

Bride stands confidently atop a rugged cliffside, dress flowing in the wind, captured by an elopement photographer Colorado.

Groom stands solo on a rock ledge, lit by the warm setting sun and the endless Colorado landscape behind him.

Even if your elopement is chill and casual, there’s still a rhythm to the day. When should you get ready? How long will the hike take? When’s the light prettiest? A photographer with experience will help you map it all out so you’re not stressed, or hiking out in the dark with a headlamp and regrets.

4. What happens if the weather goes bananas?

Spoiler alert: Sometimes it does. The right photographer has a plan for rain, snow, wind, or all three in a two-hour span. Ask about their backup plans, weather gear, and whether they’ve ever saved a wedding day with an emergency rain poncho.

5. Can we see a full gallery from a past elopement?

Hand in hand on the rocks, the couple takes in the sunset together—joyfully captured by their elopement photographer in Colorado.

Instagram is the highlight reel. You want to see the full story, from getting ready to the quiet little moments between the “big” ones. Ask to see a full gallery (or two!) so you know what their work really looks like, start to finish.

6. How do you help camera-shy couples feel comfortable?

Not everyone loves being in front of the camera. A great photographer knows how to make you feel like yourselves,not weird, stiff versions of yourselves. Ask how they work with real humans, not models. Bonus points if they tell you goofy prompts, give you breathing room, and let the awkward giggles happen.

7. What’s included in your elopement packages?

Framed between two pines, the couple holds hands on the rocks below a cotton candy sunset sky.

Bride wraps her arms around her groom from behind, both leaning in with a playful expression that feels so authentically them.

A wide-angle view of the couple’s ceremony from below the rocks, with dreamy pastel skies behind them.

Golden hour elopement ceremony as the couple exchanges vows on a mountaintop, perfectly framed by their elopement photographer Colorado.

Make sure you know what’s actually included, hours of coverage, travel, second shooter, sneak peeks, printing rights, etc. Not all packages are created equal, and you don’t want to be surprised when your digital gallery arrives and it’s watermarked or missing the morning hike photos.

What It’s Like to Work With Me

Couple shares a quiet kiss on a wooden bench overlooking the mountains, surrounded by pine trees and peaceful evening light.

I’m Erin, a Colorado elopement photographer with nearly 20 years of experience, a background in lifestyle photography, and a soft spot for couples who want to do things their own way. I’ve helped folks say their vows in sun, snow, wind, wildfire smoke (yes, really), and everything in between.

When we work together, you’re not getting a drill sergeant or a Pinterest copycat. You’re getting someone who’s organized and easygoing, directive and flexible. I’ll help you plan a day that feels honest and fun, then photograph it in a way that reflects you, not some magazine-spread version of what your wedding “should” look like.

Bride gazes confidently into the distance as her groom walks behind her—sunlight glowing between them.

The couple embraces on a rocky overlook, surrounded by sweeping mountain views and golden hour skies.

We’ll probably be a good match if…

You’d rather read your vows on a mountaintop than in a ballroom.
You’re into meaningful moments over perfect ones.
You want a photographer who can guide when needed, but knows when to step back.
You’re okay with some wind in your hair and dirt on your boots (and maybe a squirrel in your photos).
You want to feel comfortable, not posed, not stiff, just real.

If that sounds like your kind of day, I’m in!

Ready to Plan Your Colorado Elopement?

Walking hand-in-hand toward the horizon, the couple navigates rocky terrain at sunset, led by their elopement photographer Colorado.

If the thought of a big traditional wedding makes you want to run for the hills (literally), but the idea of saying your vows somewhere breathtaking with just the two of you (and maybe a dog or two) feels right, you’re my people.

Whether you have a detailed plan or zero idea where to start, I’ve got you. I’ll help you figure out the where, the when, and the how, and be there to photograph it all in a way that feels easy, honest, and so you.

Bride and groom share a playful moment leaning against a wooden fence, laughing together in the forest.

Arm in arm, the newlyweds smile at the camera, framed by tall pines and rustic wooden railings.

Hand in hand, the couple strolls down a tree-lined trail, glowing with post-ceremony joy—documented by an elopement photographer Colorado.

Let’s plan something that makes your heart happy. Reach out today, and let’s plan your adventure together!

Just getting started planning your elopement in Colorado? Check out some of my favorite blogs with more inspiration and tips or my Pinterest for more here!

How to Plan an Intentional, Laid-Back Intimate Wedding in Colorado

How to Choose the Best Colorado Elopement Locations for Your Big Day

Why More Couples are Choosing a Denver Elopement for Their Big Day

How to Choose the Right Elopement Photographer in Colorado (And Why It Actually Matters)