The Adventure Bride’s Guide to Posing for Adventure Elopement Photos

Hey Adventure Brides!

Today’s topic is something that most of us are not super comfortable with, and that is posing for photos. If you’re like me, you’d much rather be BEHIND the camera than in FRONT of the camera.

But hopefully these pro tips from your favorite adventure elopement photographer bestie will help put you at ease and prepare you for everything you need to know about posing during your elopement!

Adventure elopements are all about capturing the raw, authentic emotions and breathtaking landscapes that make your day so unique. Unlike traditional weddings, adventure elopements offer a more intimate experience, often set in stunning natural locations. As a photographer, my goal is to capture your love story in a way that feels genuine, adventurous, and entirely "you."

To help you feel confident and relaxed during your adventure elopement photoshoot, here’s a guide to posing tips, how to get comfortable in front of the camera, and what to expect during our time together.

1. Be in the Moment: Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera

Custer State Park wedding

One of the best ways to look natural in photos is to forget the camera is even there. Adventure elopements are about your love story, so I encourage you to focus on each other and the experience, rather than thinking about posing. Laugh, hold hands, hug, and enjoy the scenery.

When you’re fully immersed in the moment, the photos will reflect that authenticity. You’ll naturally fall into poses that feel comfortable and real. If you feel nervous, just remember that it’s not about "performing"—it’s about being present with your partner.

Pro Tip: Whisper sweet or funny things to each other to keep things light and fun. This can create genuine smiles and intimate moments that look great on camera.

2. Move Naturally

Adventure elopements often involve movement—whether you’re hiking, running, or simply exploring the landscape. Movement-based shots create dynamic and engaging photos, capturing the sense of freedom that comes with an adventurous setting.

Custer State Park adventure wedding

- Walking Shots: I’ll ask you to walk hand-in-hand, either toward or away from the camera. These shots are great for creating a sense of connection and adventure. Don’t worry about looking at the camera—just enjoy the walk.

- Running Shots: For a more playful feel, you might run together through a field, across a beach, or along a trail. This can produce beautiful, action-filled shots that show your adventurous spirit.

- Exploring: Climbing rocks, dipping your toes in a lake, or hiking to a viewpoint all provide opportunities for natural, candid moments.

Pro Tip: Don’t overthink it. If I ask you to move in a certain way, just enjoy the experience, and I’ll capture the magic as it unfolds.

3. Embrace Intimacy

Elopements are deeply personal, so don’t be afraid to get close and intimate with your partner. Soft touches, forehead kisses, and gentle embraces can lead to some of the most romantic and heartfelt images.

Sylvan Lake Adventure Elopement

- Hugging: Lean into each other for a close embrace. I’ll guide you into a position that feels comfortable and allows you to relax. The key is to forget the camera and just savor the moment with your partner.

- Forehead-to-Forehead: This is a classic, intimate pose that works well in any setting. Press your foreheads together, close your eyes, and take a deep breath together. The calm and connected energy will translate beautifully into your photos.

- Kissing: Whether it’s a gentle kiss on the lips or a sweet kiss on the forehead, these moments are timeless. I’ll capture these moments from different angles to create a range of images that feel natural and loving.

Pro Tip: There’s no rush. Take your time with each pose, and I’ll help you find the most natural and comfortable positions.

4. Use the Environment

One of the best parts of adventure elopements is the stunning scenery. Whether it’s a mountain range, a forest, or a desert, the landscape will play a huge role in your photos. To take advantage of this, I’ll guide you in incorporating the environment into your poses.

- Lean on Each Other: Use the landscape to your advantage by leaning against a tree, sitting on a rock, or laying on a blanket in the grass. These more relaxed poses help integrate you into the natural surroundings.

Custer State Park Adventure Wedding

- Look at the View: Instead of always facing the camera, I might ask you to look out over the landscape. This creates a sense of adventure and allows us to capture the vastness of the environment around you.

- Interacting with Nature: Hold hands as you walk through the trees, dip your toes in the water, or brush your fingers along wildflowers. Interacting with your surroundings will create more candid and genuine shots.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to explore. The more you interact with the environment, the more organic and authentic the photos will feel.

5. Trust Your Photographer

As your adventure elopement photographer, I’m here to guide you through the process. You don’t need to have any experience in front of the camera—leave that part to me! I’ll offer gentle direction and suggestions to help you feel at ease, while still capturing the candid moments that make your elopement special.

- Posing Guidance: I’ll suggest specific poses when needed, but I prefer to capture the moments that unfold naturally. Don’t worry if you feel unsure—just relax, and I’ll take care of the rest.

Custer State Park Adventure Wedding

- Natural Movement: I’ll encourage you to move naturally and engage with each other, offering prompts to help you relax and enjoy the experience.

- Candid Moments: Some of the best photos happen when you’re not paying attention to the camera at all. I’ll be ready to capture those spontaneous, joyful moments that truly reflect your love story.

Pro Tip: The more comfortable and connected you feel with each other, the more authentic and beautiful your photos will be.

Final Thoughts

Adventure elopements are about embracing the beauty of the moment, the landscape, and your connection with each other. Posing is less about "striking a pose" and more about allowing the natural interactions between you and your partner to unfold. By staying present, moving naturally, and trusting your photographer, you’ll walk away with stunning images that reflect the essence of your adventure and your love story.

I hope this guide helps as you prepare for the best day ever! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out - I’m happy to help!

Till next time,

-Carlie