Scouting Photoshoot Locations for Destination Elopements

Scouting photoshoot locations for a destination elopement isn’t just about finding a pretty view—it’s about making sure everything actually works. The last thing you want is to show up on the wedding day and realize the lighting is terrible, the terrain is impossible in a wedding dress, or (worst of all) the location isn’t even accessible.

I learned this the hard way in Vegas.

The plan was to shoot at Valley of Fire—a dream desert backdrop. But since I always like to arrive early to check things out, I decided to swing by the park office to make sure everything was in order.

Good thing I did.

Turns out, they NEVER received the permit application. Meaning? No access. No wedding photos there. N O T H I N G.

With only days to go, I had to pivot fast. I started driving, scouting spots with the couple’s vision in mind. I had to consider where the sun would be at golden hour, how easy it would be to get 25 guests there in a party bus, and whether it actually felt like their wedding. The first few spots were a bust—one was too crowded, another had no good parking, and a third would’ve required off-roading through rough terrain.

But then I found it. A quiet, open space with stunning desert views, easy access, and the perfect light. In the end, it actually worked out better than the original plan.

This experience taught me a lot about scouting photoshoot locations for destination elopements—lessons I now never skip.

1. Start Online Before You Travel

Before setting foot in a location, I do as much research as possible. You can’t always trust a single Instagram photo—what looks dreamy in one season might be overrun with tourists in another.

Here’s where I start:

• Google Earth & Apple Maps (Satellite View): Helps spot roads, parking areas, and terrain.
• Instagram & Pinterest: Gives real-world visuals in different seasons and lighting conditions.
• Photographer Forums & Facebook Groups: Photographers share recent insights about permits, crowds, and hidden gems.
• National Park & Tourism Websites: Critical for permits, fees, and rules.

For every elopement, I pin at least five backup locations nearby—just in case.

Lesson from Vegas: If I had relied only on the couple’s info, we would’ve been scrambling on their wedding day. Now, I double-check everything.

2. Visit in Person & Think Beyond the View

A place might look incredible in photos, but will it actually work? The only way to know is by seeing it for yourself.

When scouting photoshoot locations, I ask:

• Can the couple + guests get there easily? (No one wants to climb a cliff in heels.)
• Where will the sun be? (Golden hour might hit differently than expected.)
• Will it be packed with tourists? (Nothing kills the vibe like 50 strangers in the background.)
• Is the terrain practical? (Rocky paths and wedding dresses? Not a great combo.)

Lesson from Vegas: I had backups, but some were not realistic for a 25-person party bus. The best spot wasn’t just pretty—it was actually doable.

3. Double-Check Permits & Rules (And Then Check Again)

Just because a place is gorgeous doesn’t mean you can shoot there. Some locations have strict permit rules, and they will turn you away if you don’t have the right paperwork.

Before confirming a location:

• Check park websites for permit details.
• Call the park office (don’t assume—get confirmation in writing).
• Ask local photographers who have shot there recently.

Lesson from Vegas: The couple thought they had a permit, but the park had no record of it. If I hadn’t checked ahead of time, we would’ve found out on the wedding day. Now, I ALWAYS verify permits myself.

4. Have a Backup Plan (or Three)

Even if everything seems perfect, assume something will change—weather, closures, unexpected crowds. Having at least three alternative locations nearby saves a ton of stress.

Lesson from Vegas: Because I had scouted backups, we switched locations seamlessly. The couple stayed relaxed, and the new spot actually worked better than the original.

5. Choose a Spot That Matches the Couple’s Vision

A great location isn’t just one that looks good—it needs to feel right for the couple. Ask yourself:

• Do they want something adventurous or easy to access?
• Do they prefer a secluded location or are they fine with some people around?
• Does the scenery match their wedding aesthetic?

Lesson from Vegas: This couple wanted a laid-back, fun vibe. Instead of stressing over the original location, I found a spot that fit their energy, timeline, and guest situation—and that made all the difference.

Here’s how it all came together—proof that sometimes last-minute changes turn out even better than the original plan!

Final Takeaways: The Key to Stress-Free Location Scouting

✔ Research early—don’t wait until you arrive.
✔ Visit the location in person (what looks good online isn’t always practical).
✔ Verify permits yourself—assumptions can cost you.
✔ Have multiple backup locations so you’re always prepared.
✔ Prioritize the couple’s experience over just chasing a scenic view.

At the end of the day, the best locations aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re about making sure the couple has an unforgettable, stress-free day. And when you plan ahead, you can make magic happen no matter what challenges come up!