How to keep your elopement from feeling like an all day photoshoot
All day elopements are all the range, but if you’ve started doing research and thinking “but….how do you possibly fill 6, 8, or 12 hours on an elopement day?”, if you’ve looked at timeline examples and thought “none of these feel like me, how does this fit me?”, or maybe even “but I don’t want to have to pose for hours on end”, then this post is for you!
Especially if the plan is to elope just the two of you, it can seem a bit daunting to have a photographer with you the entire day. After all, who wants to take photos for 6+ hours? That sounds exhausting! But your elopement day is not going to be an all day photoshoot. Just like with a traditional wedding, it is going to be a documentation of what’s happening during the day. Eloping really allows you to tailor the day to your own interests and preferences, rather than being limited by a traditional wedding timeline, and that means you can do so many things!
The truth about candid photos
We all love candid photos right? Those fleeting moments and reactions and in between things that tell a story. But here’s the thing about candid photos- they don’t just happen, they happen because. What that means is candids happen when other things happen, like a first look, exchanging emotional vows, doing some kind of activity. If there’s no catalyst (or cause) for some kind of reaction, then there’s no candid moment to take a photo of.
How to get candid photos
If you’re planning an elopement day and really want a lot of candid photos, but the only thing you have planned is exchanging vows you found on the internet, its going to be really hard to get candid moments. Here are a few tips on getting amazing candids:
- Talk to your photographer. Be really honest about your personalities, some couples are more reserved and/or need a little more direction throughout the day. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that!! But your photographer can help show your best sides and facilitate candid moments if you’re feeling a little shy. If you two are more outgoing and effusive- then don’t hold back. Talk, move, laugh, joke. Treat each other the way you do when you’re alone!
- Have moments that cause emotion. This can be a first look and vows, but it can also be reading letters from family or having a guest give a short toast!
- Leave time for moments to occur. This might seem like a no brainer, but one of the best things about elopements is not having to rush from thing to thing. Its okay if something takes a little longer. If you’re having cake, there’s no need to wolf it down in 2 minutes, take the time to enjoy it together! If you’ve planned around sunrise, actually take time to watch the sunrise! Was saying vows emotional? Take 5-10 minutes after and revel in the moment- you’re married!!!
What do you even do on an elopement day?
The absolute best way to ensure your elopement day doesn’t feel like a non-stop photoshoot is to plan activities! This gives you two things to do to a) celebrate and b) not just have a ton of empty time that ends up being filled with couples photos.
Don’t let the words “plan” and “activities” overwhelm you either, you can totally have a low key and simple day and still have things planned! Keep in mind things like cutting a cake, having a first dance, and enjoying a simple picnic all count as activities.
Incorporating activities into an elopement day can help make the celebration feel more personal and meaningful to you and your partner, there’s more focus on interaction and real moments rather than tons of more directed couple photos.
Low key elopement activities:
- Making a meal together
- Having a private chef cook for you
- Stargazing
- Dancing
- A leisurely picnic or outdoor meal
- Cutting your cake
- A wine tasting or brewery tour
- A cooking or baking class
- Playing a game like chess, cards, or pool
- Fishing
- Making drinks together like cocktails or coffee
Adventurous elopement activities
- A hike or walk to a beautiful or meaningful location, or even visiting multiple locations
- Take a scenic train ride
- An adventurous non hiking activity like kayaking or off-roading
- Horseback riding
- Enjoy a hot spring
- Setting up camp together
- Skiing or snowshoeing if its in the winter
- Swimming
- Paddleboarding
It can be super helpful to see sample timelines that show how including activities in your day comes together. Check out this full guide on how to plan your timeline to see lots of ideas and (thorough) sample timelines!
Your wedding day is one of those days you never want to end. Imagine all the lead up and excitement, only to have it end after exchanging vows. Doing something you already love doing together, or experiencing something for the first time is a really special way to celebrate your day. Activities can also be a great opportunity for the two of you (and any included guests) to relax and enjoy each other’s company, rather than feeling aimless or like you need to rush on to the next thing.
Ultimately, the importance of activities on an elopement day will depend on the preferences and needs of of you and your significant other. Some couples may prefer a more laid-back, leisurely celebration, while others may want a more action-packed and adventurous day. There is no right answer! Elopements are for everyone and should be enjoyed however you want. Take into account your own priorities and preferences and plan activities that add joy and significance to your elopement day. Including activities is not the only way to make your day feel special, for more ideas check out this list here.
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