The adventure wedding became popular around 2015 right about the time professional mirrorless cameras, particularly from Sony, hit the mainstream. Along with drones, GoPros, and smart phones with cameras that can compete with many non-pro options, the lighter and smaller cameras made documenting hikes, camping trips, elopements, and adventure weddings easier for the photographer and more available to couples who love the outdoors.

In the last two years, adventure weddings became all the rage as celebrations were either postponed or canceled due to Covid. By climbing or flying to an epic view, couples were able to get gorgeous photos while still practicing social distancing, and the photos from top photographers, like our members, capture the attention of social media users everywhere.

Below you will find important planning tips from our member photographers on how to plan an elopement for two or an adventure wedding for a group of friends and family.

Here are some tips we’ve gathered from our member photographers, starting with award-winning husband-and-wife team Jos & Tree Woodsmith.

1. “Nowadays, adventure weddings can spread out over several days with friends and family. They offer a grand invitation for everyone to connect on a much deeper level than during a traditional wedding schedule. If your wedding will last more than one day, plan mini-events like picnics, sports, and games. Make the best plans you can, but stay open to spontaneously adapting them on the fly.” 

2. When you’re shopping for a photographer, Jos and Tree recommend you find  photographers with an all-in approach.

“That means having photographers with you who show up with the first guests and leave with the last. That way they can tell the story as a journey from start to finish and become one with the adventure.

At the recent wedding of Caro and Ben in the South of France, Jos and Tree reminisce fondly of the laughter and tears. 

“Seventeen hours and 18 thousand photographs later, we finally put down our cameras and surrendered to the dance floor singing and swinging with everyone clinking our goblets. 

3. Our member Amy Galbraith from Washington state reminds couples to make sure to leave no trace when getting married on public lands. 

“So many special places have been shut down or heavily restricted due to people misusing them and leaving trash and decor behind. Pack it in, pack it out, and keep it simple. Let's keep our wild places wild so that future couples and generations can enjoy them!”

Such an important reminder!

4. Lindsey Paradiso, also from the beautiful Pacific Northwest, reminds couples to embrace getting dirty! 

“If you're near water, take a dip! Dirt trails? Kick up some dirt clouds and chase each other. The more you immerse yourself in your environment, the more relaxed and natural your photos will feel!”

5. Lindsey also adds to pack lots of snacks and water. And feel free to take breaks throughout the day.

“And since it’s an adventure session, you’ll be out with your photographer for a while. Remember that photos don’t have to be happening constantly. Take some down time and enjoy the experience! It’s an adventure after all.”

We couldn’t agree more! And we’d like to add 3 more things to help you on your way.

6. Choose a place that you can all get to easily that has an epic background. If you’re hiking with others, keep the hike to a minimum. People may say they can hike 10 miles with steep elevation, but in practice may find it an ordeal, which can definitely detract from your celebration.

7. Bring clothes to change into for your ceremony, along with a rain shell, and consider bringing champagne, a warm blanket, and a bouquet of flowers. These items will add to your fun and comfort and make great props for pictures.

8. And while it may go without saying, don’t take unnecessary risks! Experienced photographers won’t ask you to take risks and there is no photo worth having that could jeopardize your big day.

Check out our posts about stunning locations and don’t miss our article about the 20 Best Places on Earth to Elope.