If you’re planning a destination wedding, you know that finding a destination wedding photographer who can give you the gorgeous, editorial-style portraits and the real, laugh-out-loud moments is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. Macy and Parker’s wedding at Emerald Hills in Iowa is one of my favorite examples of what it looks like when you get both from the same photographer. I’m based in Hawaii, so flying out to Iowa for their day made it a destination wedding for me, and I loved every second of it!
(P.S. If you’re looking for a destination wedding photographer to document your day, you can inquire with me here!)
A Destination Wedding in Iowa With Editorial and Candid in the Same Gallery
Macy and Parker are from Des Moines, and I’m so excited to finally share their gallery because it was such a special day. Flying from Hawaii to Iowa for a wedding was such a fun change of scenery for me, and Emerald Hills ended up being a great place to photograph their day. After they got their gallery, Macy sent me the sweetest message that said, “These pictures are literally my vision come to life; we are so obsessed!” which is honestly the best thing a photographer can hear.
What I love most about their gallery is that it has everything. There are the pretty, editorial wedding photography moments you’d want to frame on your wall, and then there are the candid wedding photos that bring you right back into the day, the laughing, the happy tears, the in-between stuff. That’s what I wish more couples knew when they’re comparing photographers: you don’t have to pick one or the other! You can have the magazine-style portraits and the real, fun moments from the same person.
What to Look for in a Destination Wedding Photographer
Start by looking at full galleries, not just highlight reels! A portfolio of ten perfect images doesn’t tell you much, but a full gallery shows you how a photographer handles the entire day, from getting ready to the reception. I would recommend looking for portraits that feel intentional alongside moments that feel unplanned and super candid! If a gallery only has one or the other, that’s worth knowing before you book!
You’ll also want someone who feels comfortable in places they’ve never been. A good destination wedding photographer doesn’t need to know your venue by heart; they need to know how to walk onto a property, make changes based on the lighting, and figure out where the best portrait spots are! That skill matters even more when your wedding is far from home, because you can’t count on a long list of familiar backdrops.
Finally, pay attention to how they communicate! When you’re planning a destination wedding, most of your conversations happen over email and calls, so you want a photographer who answers your questions clearly and makes you feel taken care of before you ever meet in person. If you’re still building your team, read more on my blog, Maui Wedding Vendors You’ll Regret Not Hiring Sooner, because the same ideas apply no matter where your wedding is!
How Editorial Wedding Photography and Candid Photos Work Together
One thing most couples don’t realize is that you don’t have to choose between the posed or aesthetic and the candid, real photos you’re wanting. The way it works on a wedding day is that we build in a little time for the editorial portraits, usually around the couple’s portraits and the wedding party, and then I step back and let everything else happen naturally. The ceremony, the reactions, the dance floor- all of it gets photographed as it happens without any direction from me.
That balance is what makes a gallery feel complete. The editorial wedding photography gives you the images you’ll want to frame, and the candid wedding photos give you the ones that make you laugh and tear up years later!
Planning Photos for a Destination Wedding
A few things make a big difference when you’re planning photos from a distance! Share your venue and inspiration with your photographer early so we can talk through the light and timeline together. I like to build in extra time for portraits, since you won’t have the chance to redo them another day. And if you want film or video as part of your day, bring that team into the conversation early too! Macy and Parker’s gallery is a great example of how well photo and video can work together, and if you’re curious about adding film, read more on my blog, Super 8 Videographer Maui!
If you’re still early in the planning process, read more on my blog, The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Dream Hawaii Elopement, because a lot of those tips apply to any destination wedding. And if your dream is a destination wedding Hawaii couples travel for, I photograph weddings across Maui, Kauai, and Oahu, and I’d love to be part of yours!
FAQ about Hiring a Destination Wedding Photographer
How far in advance should I book a destination wedding photographer?
As soon as you have your date and venue! Popular dates fill up months in advance, so booking nine to twelve months out is a good goal, and earlier if you’re planning for a peak season.
Do destination wedding photographers charge travel fees?
Usually, yes, because travel and lodging are higher costs. The best way to avoid surprises is to ask what’s included up front so you know the full price before you book. As a destination wedding photographer, I don’t charge travel fees so that my clients know exactly the price they are paying, and nothing extra.
Should we do an engagement session before our destination wedding?
I always recommend it because you’ll feel more at ease in front of the camera, and you’ll get to know your photographer before the wedding. If a session isn’t possible, a video call to talk through your day works great too. I am happy to do both or either!
Ready to Book Your Destination Wedding Photographer?
If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding with editorial portraits and candid moments from the same photographer, I’d love to hear about your day! Whether you’re getting married in Hawaii or anywhere else, I would love to capture your special day!