Breaking Into the Elopement Photography Market
This blog post was created to support PPA’s goals to increase organic site traffic and member engagement.
Using Semrush, I conducted keyword research and developed a list of high-value search terms tailored to the elopement photography niche. I then applied on-page SEO best practices—including keyword integration, internal linking, and metadata optimization—to strengthen the article’s visibility. I also handled publishing and newsletter promotion to maximize reach.
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Elopements are wedding ceremonies with a small number of guests, sometimes even just a couple and a photographer, that prioritize intimacy and personal meaning over a large, traditional wedding.
In recent years a shift in wedding culture and client values has opened up a new world of opportunity for photographers. In this article, we look a little more closely at the art of elopement photography, its popularity, and some tips for getting started.
What Is an Elopement?
The term "elope" comes from the 14th-century meaning of "to leap." By the 17th century the term had evolved to mean running away with a lover, with often scandalous implications. These secret marriages were perceived as rebellious and carried out in defiance of social conventions and expectations. “Runaway” weddings could result in damaged reputations and legal consequences, but for a couple in love, the risk could be well worth the reward.
During the Great Depression, couples eloped out of financial necessity rather than rebellion and in the years that followed, cultural attitudes shifted. Iconic elopements like that of Frank Sinatra and Mia Farrow created a sense of allure and fascination in the hearts and minds of the public.
Why Elopements Are So Popular Now
Today, elopements are rarely seen as taboo, but rather a meaningful alternative to large weddings. The Covid-19 pandemic marked a major turning point in the growth and increased popularity of elopements, with travel restrictions and lockdowns limiting couples from gathering.
However, even before the pandemic, elopements were seeing an upward trend. Some couples opt for elopements as a way to remove some of the stress that comes with planning a traditional ceremony, reduce expenses, or honor personal values like minimalism and authenticity. For others, it’s about creating an experience that feels more intimate, adventurous, or true to their relationship.
Why They Are Worth Exploring
Photographers too are finding new opportunities in the field of elopement photography. For some, letting go of some of the traditional elements of a wedding allows them to place more intentional work into photographing a couple and telling their story.
Elopements can open the door to new photography business opportunities like traveling to destination spots to capture vows in untraditional spaces, such as coastal overlooks and mountaintops. The increased flexibility gives many a chance to challenge their creativity, explore new environments, and build a portfolio of emotionally rich, incredible imagery.
Tips for Getting Started with Elopement Photography
Learn the Niche
One of the best ways to begin your journey into elopement photography is to study real elopement galleries. Take note of the pacing, mood, and storytelling techniques used by established photographers in the space. If possible, consider assisting or second shooting for someone with experience in elopements. This hands-on approach can give you insight into the unique logistics and emotional flow of a smaller ceremony.
For elopement photographers looking to create a more "luxury" client elopement experience, this might include taking on a hybrid role as part photographer, part planner. While it’s still incredibly important to be technically proficient with all the features of your camera, event coordination skills in this niche are also key. Understanding how to guide a couple through location choices, timelines, and even ceremony details can set you apart.
Build a Portfolio
If you don’t yet have a body of elopement work, styled elopement shoots can be a great way to build a portfolio. Reach out to real couples or vendors to collaborate on a concept that allows you to showcase what makes your approach unique.
As you build your portfolio, focus on images that highlight not only the location but also the emotional connection between the couple. Some elopement photography creators even recommend including a few images where the couple’s faces are obscured, allowing potential clients to more easily visualize themselves in the scene.
Including behind-the-scenes moments and preparation shots can help future clients imagine what it’s like to work with you—and reinforce the authenticity of your brand.
Develop a Marketing Strategy
When it comes to marketing, an intentional digital presence is key. Optimize your website and blog content with search-friendly terms like “elopement photographer in [your city],” so that couples actively seeking this style of wedding can easily find you. Plan to invest time in improving your website's search engine optimization as well.
Platforms like Pinterest and Instagram are especially effective for reaching couples who are in the inspiration-gathering stage, while TikTok or Instagram Reels can help you reach a wider audience with engaging content like elopement day-of walkthroughs or elopement pre-session tips. Think of your content not just as a portfolio, but as a resource that answers the questions potential clients are already asking.
Understanding the Market: What Clients Want
Even though elopements differ from traditional weddings, the underlying client desires are similar: couples want transparency, ease, emotional connection, and personalization. Highlight the values of your elopement clients in your messaging. Use your blog and social media to showcase work and inspire clients with ideas for their own day.
PPA’s wedding photography client research offers valuable insight into what couples value most in a photographer—and can help inform your strategy even if you’re working in a smaller or niche format like elopements.
Developing Your Brand as an Elopement Photographer
Your brand voice and visibility matter. Spend time figuring out what platforms work best for you, whether it’s Pinterest, TikTok, Instagram, or blogs, and create a content calendar to keep up the momentum.
Stay consistent with posting and find new ways to engage your audience.
Invest time in SEO and create educational content like location guides, “how to elope” articles or elopement planning tips.
Share client stories on your blog & optimize it so clients can find you!
Stay in contact with your audience through a weekly newsletter.
Use the internet in your inspiration-gathering phase. Find elopement photography blogs and see what works for your brand!
Additional Inspiration for Elopement Photographers
Stay inspired by articles from Professional Photographer magazine. Weddings and elopements are topics covered year-round!
Big Romance – A look at capturing emotional elopements
Bold Declaration – Unique locations and nontraditional moments
Runaway Niche – Carving out a space in the elopement market
If you’ve been considering adding elopement photography to your portfolio, consider this your sign! This trend is here to stay and is inviting couples and photographers to rethink what exchanging your vows and saying “I do” can look like. Get started gathering new inspiration for your elopement photography today and get the help you need building a sustainable and profitable business today with PPA!
• Originally published on PPA.com/articles — June 30, 2025 •