I had such a blast getting to know Alex over email. She’d mentioned that her and Reggie were visiting from Edmonton and looking for a Banff Elopement Photographer. They wanted a beautiful location in the mountains to elope at. I gave them a few suggestions for locations and they agreed that Lake Minnewanka was best. You truly can’t beat the view – especially in the winter. The snow covered mountains made for the most incredible backdrop. While their images look calm and serene, there was a bone chilling wind that they braved (even coatless)! I’m so truly honoured to have been there to capture their elopement!
Why elope?
While there’s perks to both big and small weddings, there’s also perks to eloping. With how uncertain event planning is with the pandemic, elopements have been a huge consideration for many couples. Elopements provide the flexibility to both you and those involved with your wedding, to make it perfect. You’re able to choose the optimal time for lighting, as well as a location that only has to accommodate 5 people versus 50+. A & R’s elopement location was perfection. It’s a location that wouldn’t have been accessible with a larger wedding.
Before you Elope!
Before you elope, you’ll need to ensure that you’ve got the proper documentation from the registry. You’ll also need two witnesses. As a photographer, I love playing witness to your wedding! Your officiant may bring along a spouse or a friend, or I can bring one along one as well if you’d like (if you do not have a family member or friend available).
Choosing a Location
Choosing a location can be a personal preference, or one you leave up to your photographer. Typically, you’ll want to elope at a location that’s quiet and less trafficked. It’ll ensure that you won’t have any unwanted spectators. Choosing a location with lots of open shade (usually trees) is also ideal. During the summer months when the sun is hot and bright, it’ll give us a place to cool down and provide a place for me to capture your portraits with nice, even lighting.
When’s the Best Time to Elope?
If you don’t have a set time in your head, I usually suggest two hours prior to sunset. Keep in mind, this is my personal preference. Each photographer is different! Regardless of the season, getting married in the later morning to early afternoon can be tricky. The sun will be quite high in the sky which can make for harsh lighting and shadows, causing your images to look quite contrasted. I love capturing weddings (and any session) two hours prior to sunset because it allows me to avoid any harsh shadows and light. Instead, we’re able to capture that beautiful golden hour which give us those nice warm images!
Eloping in the Winter
I absolutely LOVE winter weddings and elopements. That said, they’re not for every couple. You’ll need to come prepared when you elope or get married in the winter. That’s why I always suggest wearing layers under your dress. If your dress allows it, consider fleece lined leggings. Another great option is to wear winter boots. It’ll ensure we can walk to/from each location without any slips/falls and they’ll keep your feet warm. Another great option is purchasing hand and toe warmers. SportCheck, Marks and Costco all sell them. Also be sure to bring a nice heavy jacket to warm up in in-between locations!
