Wedding or Elopement?

Wedding photography for me is primarily about the people. I often find myself working with couples that would have eloped in the outdoors somewhere, except they just can’t imagine not having certain loved ones there to celebrate with. I love to work with them to create the opportunity for time for just them, while also having time for them to enjoy their celebration with their people.
Sometimes the best option is to do an adventure session prior to their wedding where we talk through favorite spots or places they’ve always wanted to go. From there we can plan an adventure together where you two can explore, and be documented doing what you love together in incredible places. The pace is low-key and focused far more on the overall experience then on any poses.
Another option is creating time for just the two of you the day of your wedding or the same weekend. Maybe it is having a first look near their venue earlier in the day, a small walk after their ceremony before the reception, a sunset break during the reception to take it all in- or a combination of all three.
Finally, sometimes an elopement IS the right fit for you. Elopements are incredible experiences where you and your partner get to be fully present with one another for the whole experience, without the pressure of any expectation or pleasing any guests. If you find yourself stressed by the whole process and would rather escape to your favorite location to explore for your wedding celebration, then listen to that desire.

How am I involved in the planning?

For elopements and intimate weddings I am always happy to help you plan the details around locations and recommend aspects that can be included in your day. Depending on your vision, I’d help you discuss locations and talk through what experience truly matches you two and how you want to celebrate. I love brainstorming ideas for elopements, as well as problem solving back up plans and options depending on what we might encounter with weather and other factors.
For larger weddings I always recommend working with a planner, and have a few favorites depending on your location that I am happy suggest. I find that especially for destination weddings in the San Juan Islands, working with a local or at least San Juan experienced planner is extremely helpful. I love to provide suggestions for timelines that take into account travel time to various locations, time needed to create the best photo experience, and catching the best lighting for photos. Usually I work with the planner or day of coordinator to make sure this matches up with all the other details and timing that need to be considered depending on the events and the venue.

“Kestrel beautifully documented our adventurous engagement photos at Palouse Falls (her idea!) & our 100 person wedding beyond my wildest expectations. She makes you feel confident & comfortable & special. I’m grateful to have these beautiful pics forever. 11/10 would work with again and highly recommend.”

“Kestrel is a phenomenal photographer that captures memories with her keen eye for beautiful aesthetics. She is always looking for (and finding!) candid moments that make you love the portraits even more. Check out her work, admire the mastery of her craft, and give her full trust to photograph life’s big events.”

“Saying thank you wouldn’t cover how grateful we are for your documentation of our wedding day. These are photos that will last our entire lifetime. You are magic with that camera- you capture people’s spirits in your photos and the beauty of the surroundings as well. Thanks for all you did for us, Kestrel. You are truly gifted, and I’m so thrilled that we crossed paths and were blessed with your talent during some big life moments. Love, A and C”

Featured

Sep 15, 2023

Saltwater Farm Wedding

Sep 15, 2023

Apr 12, 2022

North Cascades Hiking Elopement

Apr 12, 2022

Mar 3, 2022

Rainy Olympic Peninsula Elopement

Mar 3, 2022

Feb 18, 2021

Discovery Park Hiking Elopement in Seattle

Feb 18, 2021

A beautiful fall hiking elopement in Seattle at Discovery Park celebrating two brides.

Feb 18, 2021

Outlook Inn Elopement on Orcas Island

Feb 18, 2021

An intimate elopement on Orcas Island, in the San Juan Islands. The couple stayed and held their wedding ceremony at Outlook Inn, followed by elopement photographs around Orcas Island and Moran State Park.

Feb 18, 2021

Feb 17, 2021

Part 2: Alpine Lakes Hiking Elopement

Feb 17, 2021

Beautiful hiking elopement at Colchuck Lake in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.

Feb 17, 2021

Feb 11, 2021

Part 1: Intimate Leavenworth Elopement

Feb 11, 2021

A beautiful intimate elopement at a family cabin in Leavenworth, Washington.

Feb 11, 2021

Dec 11, 2020

San Juan Island Whale Watching Wedding

Dec 11, 2020

When Covid challenged this Seattle couple to adapt their San Juan Island Wedding plans, they moved their wedding ceremony to a whale watch cruise. They had a beautiful celebration on San Juan Island while still adhering to Covid guidelines. I had the honor of being their San Juan Island wedding photographer.

Dec 11, 2020