Elopements
Elopement Photographer in Raleigh, NC
Just the two of you. Somewhere that means something. I'll handle the rest.
An elopement isn't a smaller wedding. It's a different kind of day.
When couples choose to elope, they're not compromising. They're choosing presence over performance, choosing to spend their wedding day actually being in it.
You don't need someone who shows up, fires off 500 frames, and sends you a Google Drive link. You need someone who understands what this day is and who knows how to be present without being in the way.
I'm based in Raleigh, NC and photograph elopements throughout the Triangle, and across North Carolina. Mountains, coast, state parks, city rooftops, private land.
What Working With Me Looks Like
Before
We start with a conversation
Video call, not a form submission. I want to understand what you're imagining. From there, I help with location research, permit requirements, and a realistic timeline. Most elopement couples are planning without a coordinator. I fill a lot of that gap.
Day of
I arrive before you do
I've already walked the location, found where the light is, and scouted the spots I want to bring you to. When you arrive, my only job is to follow what's happening between the two of you.
After
Your gallery, delivered
Your full edited gallery is delivered within 4 weeks. High-resolution files, online gallery, print release. No watermarks. These are your images.
Locations I Know Well
North Carolina has some of the best elopement terrain in the Southeast.
Triangle Area
- Umstead State ParkWooded trails, creeks, golden hour magic
- Jordan LakeOpen water, big sky, sunset silhouettes
- Eno River State ParkRocky riverbanks, lush forest, intimate
- Durant Nature PreservePrivate, beautiful in every season
- Historic OakwoodUrban intimate, brick and character
Beyond the Triangle
- Blue Ridge ParkwayMountain overlooks, fog, elevation
- Grandfather MountainDramatic and iconic
- Outer BanksBeach, dunes, coastal light
- Asheville / Western NCMountain venues and private land
Packages
Coverage for every kind of elopement
3–4 hours
Elopement Essentials
Full ceremony coverage and portraits without a full-day commitment.
- Pre-elopement planning call
- Location and permit research
- Ceremony coverage (arrival through vows and rings)
- Couples portrait session (30–45 minutes)
- High-resolution edited gallery (80–120 images)
- Online gallery with download and print release
- Delivered within 3 weeks
Contact for pricing
6–8 hours
Full Elopement Day
For couples who want to make a full day of it, getting ready, multiple locations, a meal, or golden hour portraits.
- Pre-elopement planning call (up to 2 sessions)
- Full location scouting and permit research
- Getting ready coverage
- Ceremony coverage at your chosen location
- Multiple portrait sessions throughout the day
- High-resolution edited gallery (200–300+ images)
- Online gallery with download and print release
- Delivered within 4 weeks
Contact for pricing
Custom, full day or multi-day
Adventure Elopement
For couples eloping somewhere that requires hiking, travel, or an overnight. Destination elopements in the NC mountains, coast, or out of state.
- Custom planning for your location
- Destination travel included in pricing
- NC mountains, coast, or out-of-state
- Reach out to discuss specifics
Contact for pricing
Payment plans available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you help with planning or just show up with a camera?
I help with planning. For most couples I work with, I'm the first vendor they book, and often the only one. I will genuinely help you think through the location, the permit situation, and how to structure your day.
What if the weather is bad on our elopement day?
We plan for it. Rain and fog often make for more interesting photographs than a clear sky. I've never had a client regret shooting in weather.
Is it okay to book a photographer we've never met in person?
We'll video call before you book, always. I want you to feel like you know me before your day, because the only other person there will be me.
Do you travel for elopements?
Yes. I travel throughout North Carolina at no additional cost within reasonable driving distance of the Triangle. Out-of-state and destination elopements are available, travel fees apply.
How far in advance should we book?
The more lead time, the better. That said, I've helped couples plan elopements in as little as 3 weeks. If you have a date in mind, reach out now.
Ready to plan your elopement?
Tell me where you're thinking of going and when. We'll take it from there.
Or reach me directly: info@johnkornegay.com