An elopement not only in the desert, but at Horseshoe Bend in Page, Arizona is truly magical. Especially with these two, they made this adventurous photographer so inspired. This canyon view has become one of most iconic travel spots in the southwest. Being able to see the natural horseshoe curve of the Colorado River and its accessibility is truly why so many crowd this destination.
Regardless of influx of crowds over the past 7 years, this place still remains a special place to me. I work hard to make couples’ sessions, elopements, and weddings as intimate as possible. That’s due to the endless amount of time I have spent and photographed in this location.
We started the day before their elopement. I offer an extra adventure session in my Dream collection of photography packages. This gives me the opportunity to either photograph the couple before their day—I really get to know them during this time and how they like to be photographed—or after if they want more adventures to celebrate afterwards. Now this gives the couple the opportunity to explore places in the area they also want photos of in their elopement attire or just to be casual—without elopement attire—purely for the adventure and to document it. So really, if you want ideal sunset lighting in multiple locations this is the perfect option! We traveled off to other mars-like rock formations the evening before. It was a great opportunity for all of us to get to know each other in person, and I got to hear more about their story together. Magical again with a cotton candy sunset on the cliffs.
The morning of their elopement, S + C got their hair done in the Flagstaff area and headed up north to the city of Page. We met up at a spot along Lake Powell to adventure and capture some portraits before the sunset ceremony at Horseshoe Bend. I like this spot because you’re closer to the water and get insane wave-like rock formations. From here you can actually go down to the water with small sandy spots to relax and jump in. We decided to stay up amongst the rocks.
As you can see I really enjoy those wide, wide open landscapes shots where the subjects look small, and you can really feel how expansive our world is. After all, that’s why these clients pick these places. You WANT to see these epic backdrops in your photos—not only closeups.
From there, we headed over to Horseshoe Bend with our proper permit and met up with their officiant, Jen from Life Passages. Quick little rant: I absolutely love working with Jen who really is such a positive and fun person to work with. The detailedness and personable ceremonies Jen provides are beautiful. Hire Jen for your Arizona wedding!
S + C set up their phone on a tripod and started a Zoom video chat so family could join their elopement. It was a complete surprise to them that day. We timed it perfectly for the sun to be setting on the cliff of Horseshoe Bend as they were giving their vows and we really got such great changes in light and the sky. Plus, we had the perfect amount of time to take portraits afterwards with the golden light!
