What It’s Like Hiring a Traveling Wedding Photographer
When planning your wedding or elopement, one of the most exciting (and important) choices you’ll make is finding the right photographer. What happens when the photographer you love isn’t local to your wedding destination? That’s where hiring a traveling wedding photographer comes in, a professional who goes wherever your love story takes you.
Hi, I’m Brittany! I’m a traveling wedding photographer who has captured love stories everywhere from rugged coastlines to mountaintops. In this post, I’ll share what it’s like to hire a destination photographer, what’s included in the experience, and tips to help you plan the most unforgettable day, no matter where in the world it takes place.
Dreaming of photos that feel like art, set against the backdrop of your favorite destination? Reach out here to start planning, or follow me on Instagram for real love stories, travel inspiration, and behind-the-scenes adventures.
Why Couples Hire a Destination Photographer
Weddings and elopements are deeply personal, and your photos are what you’ll treasure for decades to come. Many couples choose a traveling wedding photographer because:
- Consistency in style: You fall in love with their portfolio, and you want that exact style, not just whoever happens to be local.
- Experience in unique locations: Traveling photographers often specialize in outdoor, adventurous, or destination weddings. We know how to make the most of unfamiliar terrain.
- Storytelling over geography: For many couples, the person behind the camera matters more than where they’re based. It’s about connection and trust.
When you bring a photographer with you, you’re not just hiring someone to take pictures. You’re inviting them to help tell your love story in a way that feels authentic and true.
Where I’ve Traveled for Elopements, Weddings & Styled Shoots
One of the best parts of this job is getting to photograph love in so many different places. Some of these were real wedding days or elopements. Others were styled shoots, creative projects that let me explore new locations and bring fresh ideas to life for my couples. Each one taught me something and helped shape the way I approach storytelling and connection.
Here are a few places I’ve had the chance to work:
- The Canadian Rockies (my home base) where I’ve shot everything from mountaintop ceremonies to quiet lakeside moments.
- Tofino’s wild coastline. Rugged, remote, and perfect for adventurous couples.
- Whistler, BC with its mountain views and cozy alpine feel.
- The Amalfi Coast in Italy, where I captured a real elopement on the cliffs.
- A wedding in Derby, England, full of charm and countryside vibes.
- Styled elopements in California and Yosemite. Both offered insane views and that golden California light.
- A shoot in Prague, with cobblestone streets and castle views that felt straight out of a movie.
- And of course, rolling hills and ancient stone in Scotland, with weather that changed by the minute.
Wherever your story takes you, I’m always up for the adventure. If your dream location isn’t on this list yet, I’d love to add it.
Dreaming of saying “I do” in the most romantic places in the world? Check out my blog on the 8 best places to elope in Europe. For stunning locations, tips, and inspiration to start planning your unforgettable day. Read it here.
What’s Included in My Travel Package Experience
When you hire me as your traveling wedding photographer, you’re getting so much more than someone who shows up with a camera. Every package is designed to make your day feel effortless and meaningful from start to finish. I’ll create a customized location guide that highlights the best places for photos. Hidden gems to explore, and even local restaurants to enjoy while you’re there. All travel expenses are built into your package, no hidden fees, no surprises, just complete peace of mind.
Together, we’ll build a timeline that reflects your vision for the day while making sure we’re working with the best natural light. You’ll also receive a 95 page elopement guide filled with helpful tips and answers to common questions. My personal recommendations for trusted vendors, from florists to makeup artists to private chefs. If your location needs permits, I’ll take care of the research and make sure you have everything in place before the big day.
Above all, my goal is to make sure you feel supported, comfortable, and free to be yourselves. Your wedding isn’t an all day photoshoot, it’s a once in a lifetime celebration, and I’m there not just as your photographer but as your guide, cheerleader, and friend to capture it all in the most authentic way.
How We Plan Together From Afar
Planning a destination wedding or elopement from miles away can feel overwhelming, but that’s where having a traveling wedding photographer by your side makes all the difference. I make communication a priority so you never feel lost in the process. From our first conversations, I’ll take time to understand your vision, your story, and the details that matter most to you.
Instead of just showing up on the wedding day, I stay connected with you throughout the journey, sharing location suggestions, helping with timelines, and making sure you feel confident in every decision. By the time I arrive, it won’t feel like you’re working with a stranger; it will feel like we’ve already walked through the day together. That level of trust and planning means you can simply relax, be present, and enjoy every moment while I focus on capturing it all.
Tips for Choosing a Location Based on Photos
When couples are deciding where to say their vows, photography often plays a big role. If you’re hoping for breathtaking, artistic images, here are a few things to consider:
- Lighting: Some places look magical at sunrise, while others come alive at sunset.
- Accessibility: Epic views are incredible, but make sure your location is realistic for your guests, or for hiking in your dress.
- Weather patterns: Think about the season and how it might impact your photos. Fog, snow, or rain can add mood and atmosphere, but you’ll want to be prepared.
- Backdrops with variety: Locations that offer multiple landscapes (like forest, mountains, and lakes all nearby) give us more opportunities for storytelling.
A traveling wedding photographer can help guide you through these choices, using their experience to ensure your location fits your vision.
How Travel Photography Differs From Local Sessions
Hiring a photographer who travels isn’t the same as booking someone down the street, and that’s a good thing. Here’s how the experience differs:
- Time commitment: Traveling photographers usually spend more time with you, since they’ve arrived just for your event.
- Immersion in your story: Being present for multiple days allows us to capture not just the wedding, but the little moments leading up to it.
- Creative inspiration: New locations push photographers creatively, inspiring fresh ideas and perspectives.
- Adventure ready mindset: I embrace shifting light, unpredictable weather, and quick changes—because that’s exactly what makes travel so beautiful.
The end result? A wedding gallery that feels like your love story told through the lens of an adventure.
Hiring a Traveling Wedding Photographer
At the end of the day, hiring a traveling wedding photographer is about more than logistics, it’s about finding someone who can capture your story in a way that feels true, wherever your journey takes you. Whether it’s a destination elopement or an intimate wedding abroad, the right photographer guides you through the journey and tells your story while capturing every meaningful moment.
If you’re dreaming of unforgettable photos that feel like art, I’d love to help make it happen. Reach out here to start planning your golden hour session or explore my elopement packages for more details! or follow along on Instagram for more love filled inspiration.
Your love deserves to be celebrated across the world, let’s capture it beautifully, together.
