The Hidden Gem of Elopement Photography and Videography
Imagine your celebration perfectly captured without juggling multiple vendors—just one person handling elopement photography and videography, supporting you each step of the way.
Planning an elopement often comes with a quiet tug-of-war: you want to be fully present, but you also want to remember how it all felt. Maybe you already know you want video—you want to hear your vows again, catch the way your voices shake, and remember the little in-between moments. Or maybe you’re not totally sure video is “you,” and you’re wondering if photos alone might be enough.
If you’ve been researching elopement photography and videography and wondering whether it’s actually possible to have both—without hiring a full crew or juggling multiple contracts—you’re not alone. A lot of couples planning intimate elopements, especially here in the mountains, want meaningful photos and the option of film, but without the pressure, logistics, or cost that often come with booking two separate vendors for a combined photo-video wedding service.
That’s where working with a one-woman Asheville photo and video team can feel like a breath of fresh air. Because photo and video are handled by one person, the process is simpler, more cohesive, and often more budget-friendly than hiring two separate businesses—without sacrificing quality or intention. Elopements move differently than big weddings, and when hybrid coverage is approached thoughtfully, it supports the experience you’re creating instead of complicating it.
For couples specifically looking for Asheville elopement packages, you can see the full details here:
Key Takeaways:
One person, two mediums: Photos and video captured by a single, experienced Asheville elopement photography and videography team means less stress, cohesive storytelling, and more presence for you.
Moments and feelings preserved: Still photos capture the details; video captures the sound, movement, and emotion that make your elopement truly unforgettable.
Tailored to your day: A hybrid approach moves with your energy, adapts to your timeline, and prioritizes what matters most to you.
Here’s What We’ll Cover:
Why Hybrid Photo & Video Works for Elopements
One Photographer/Videographer vs Two Separate Vendors
Can One Person Really Capture Everything?
How Hybrid Coverage Works on an Elopement Day
Real-Life Reviews from Past Couples
My Gear That Makes Hybrid Coverage Possible
Who This Option Is Perfect For
Elopement Photography and Videography FAQs
If This Feels Like It Might Be A Fit…
Why Hybrid Photo & Video Works for Elopements
Elopements move at a completely different pace than traditional weddings. There’s no packed timeline, no overlapping events happening in multiple rooms, and no pressure to perform for a crowd. Instead, the day unfolds slowly and intentionally—often with long stretches of just the two of you being present together. That slower rhythm is exactly what makes hybrid elopement photography and videography coverage not only possible, but deeply effective for elopements.
In a traditional wedding setting, photo and video teams are often juggling dozens of simultaneous moments. Elopements, on the other hand, tend to center around one experience at a time: getting ready together, exchanging vows in a quiet place, exploring somewhere meaningful, or simply sitting with what the day feels like. This allows one person to move fluidly between photo and film without rushing or missing the moments that matter most.
Hybrid capture also works so well for elopements because there’s more flexibility built into the day. If something unexpected happens—weather shifts, plans change, or you decide to linger longer than planned—there’s room to adapt. That flexibility gives space to be thoughtful about when to lean into still photography and when to let moments unfold naturally on video.
Most importantly, elopements are about connection, not production. Fewer people means less distraction, less self-consciousness, and more emotional honesty. When there’s only one person documenting your day, it’s easier to relax, forget about the camera, and stay grounded in the experience itself. That presence is what allows both the photos and the film to feel real, intimate, and true to how the day actually felt.
One Photographer/Videographer vs. Two Separate Vendors
When couples start considering elopement photography and videography for their day, one of the biggest questions is whether to hire two separate vendors or work with one person who does both. There’s no universally “right” choice—but the experience of the day can feel very different depending on which route you take.
Hiring Two Separate Vendor Teams
Two creative styles and two approaches to storytelling
Two communication streams during planning
More coordination on the day itself
Often makes sense for larger, traditional weddings
Can sometimes feel like more moving parts than an elopement needs
Potential for conflict between vendors and feeling the vibes not matching
Working with One Person for Elopement Photo and Video
One point of communication from start to finish
A shared vision for how your day is documented
Fewer decisions and less logistical juggling
Coverage that flows as one cohesive story
A calmer, more unobtrusive presence throughout the day
Trust in knowing the one person capturing your special day will provide a calming and positive energy
Beyond logistics, there’s also an energy difference. Fewer people present often allows couples to feel more relaxed and less “observed.” Instead of navigating where multiple vendors are standing or adjusting moments to accommodate extra cameras, the day is free to unfold naturally.
That ease often creates space for quieter, more honest moments—especially during vows and the in-between times that don’t always make it into a formal timeline.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to how you want your elopement to feel. If you’re drawn to simplicity, cohesion, and a calm, supportive presence rather than a larger production, a one-person elopement photography and videography team can be a really natural fit.
“After shedding happy tears over both our photos and video, I am so grateful we found her. I know photos and video are often the highest expense in an elopement day, and it is super important to find a good fit to trust with your memories and experience, and all of that is exactly why I am so so keen to recommend Kathryn.”
— Hannah & Rusty
Can One Person Really Capture Everything?
This is usually the quiet question sitting underneath all the others. Even couples who love the idea of a one-person photo and video team still wonder, What if something important slips by?
It’s a valid concern and one I take seriously. The goal of hybrid coverage isn’t to capture everything all the time, but to capture the moments that truly matter, with intention. Elopements don’t require constant coverage from multiple angles. They require presence, awareness, and the ability to anticipate what’s unfolding.
Because elopements move more slowly and intentionally, moments tend to happen one at a time instead of all at once. There’s room for everything in addition to vows, from reactions, hugs, laughter, and quiet pauses. There’s space to observe and respond without rushing. That makes it possible to be fully engaged with what’s happening rather than trying to chase every second.
Over the years, I’ve learned how to read a moment before it happens. I know when to pause and let something unfold on video, and when a still photograph will best preserve it. And honestly, the most meaningful parts of the day aren’t the big, obvious moments, but the subtle ones in between. Those are rarely missed when there’s only one person focused on the flow of your experience. Plus, your photos and films will actually complement one another with their unique take, rather than being copies of each other in different forms.
Most couples tell me afterward that they forgot I was filming at all, and I love that! When you’re not managing multiple vendors or feeling observed from several directions, it’s easier to stay present. And presence is what allows both your photos and film to reflect what the day actually felt like, not just what it looked like.
How Hybrid Coverage Works on an Elopement Day
The Rhythm of Your Day
Elopements have fewer overlapping events and more intentional stretches of time
This pace allows one person to capture both photos and video without rushing
Flexibility built into the day means we can focus on what feels most meaningful in the moment
When I Focus on Photos
Getting ready, hiking, or exploring together
Quietly documenting details, interactions, and candid moments
Capturing visuals that tell the story without interrupting your experience
When I Focus on Video
Emotionally significant moments: vows, letters, reflections, or quiet pauses
Capturing sound, laughter, subtle gestures, and the feeling of the day
Letting moments breathe naturally so the film reflects your true experience
Adapting in the Moment
Following the energy of your day instead of sticking to a rigid schedule
Slowing down for meaningful interactions instead of rushing to “the next shot”
Balancing photo and video coverage intuitively to preserve presence
The Result
A cohesive story where photos and film complement each other
Moments feel authentic, not staged or performative
A calm, thoughtful approach that documents your day while letting you stay fully present
“We were absolutely jaw-dropped by the video and photo quality Kathryn provided to us. It represented our relationship so well and brings tears of happiness every time I see them. I wouldn’t have wanted anyone else to capture our day. And I am so grateful we had Kathryn by our side!”
— Danielle & Josh
Real-Life Reviews from Past Couples
One of the most rewarding aspects of being an elopement planner is the opportunity to craft a wedding experience that is as unique as each couple I work with. I believe that every partnership is special. Your elopement should be a reflection of your individual personalities, values, and dreams. That’s why I take the time to get to know you, understand your vision, and infuse your special day with personal touches that make it truly unforgettable.
“Melanie and I were floored with just how beautiful our photos and video were. We couldn’t believe it. Kathryn’s creative eye captured our day perfectly. From our first looks, our mountain top I-dos, to our night hike down, they have become a touching reminder of all the things we love about each other. I would tell anyone on the fence about eloping or using Kathryn, to just go for it. She is incredibly thoughtful and cares about all the details that go into creating a wonderful experience including the people behind the story.”
“I especially appreciated her skill in capturing our day without intrusion. As shy people, we worried about feeling uncomfortable or too many people around. Kathryn, as a one-woman team, took stunning photos and videos while keeping the intimacy. Her calming presence made us at ease, and the results were breathtaking. The final photos and video are gorgeous—authentic and beautifully composed. Looking back, we’re grateful we chose her to document our day—they truly capture our love and intimacy.”
“Y'all, we got a few photos literally within DAYS of our elopement and we got to relive all those sweet moments before we even left WNC and parted ways with our family. They were everything we hoped they would be and more! We're the type of people that feel awkward in front of the camera and don't like photos of ourselves, but Kathryn captured real moments. We're so glad we chose photo and video because they each captured something different that helps us relive those moments.”
Sunjoo & Kala
“She helped us materialize the dream that we could only vaguely imagine. Our elopement day was as stress-free and magical as it can get. We did a short beautiful sunrise hike followed by a picnic breakfast on a meadow. We could not be happier with how our photos and videos turned out. She captured all the intimate details of our interactions and the gorgeous scenery with her keen eyes in the most poetic way. We will treasure and relive our beautiful memories for many years to come.”
Kevin & Roopa
“Our experience with Kathryn was phenomenal, and the photos and video captured it all perfectly. Her videography and photography never felt intrusive. Our reception was a couple months later, and Kathryn was able to have our video finished by then. We showed it to everyone who couldn't come to the ceremony, and it was such a great way to have a private ceremony while sharing the experience with the world. Working with Kathryn was 100% worth it. “
My Gear That Makes Hybrid Coverage Possible
Every piece of gear I bring is chosen with one goal in mind: to capture your day beautifully without ever getting in the way of living it. Here’s how I do it:
Lightweight camera for stills: Lets me quietly document every glance, hug, and laugh, even while we’re hiking or exploring, without feeling bulky or intrusive.
Video camera: Smooth, unobtrusive, and perfect for capturing the sound, movement, and emotion of your day. I want you to forget I’m filming so your moments feel natural.
Lenses for every perspective: Wide-angle for sweeping mountain views, intimate lenses for close-up emotions, and everything in between to tell the full story.
Audio gear: Small, high-quality microphones capture vows, letters, and quiet moments as clearly as possible, so you can hear the laughter, the whisper of the wind, and each other years later.
Minimal, portable lighting: Compact options for indoor spots or low-light situations, giving your photos and video a natural, soft glow.
Backup essentials: Extra batteries, memory cards, and everything needed to make sure no moment is ever missed.
Emergency kit for you: Hand warmers, gloves, umbrellas, or other small essentials, because I’ve been on enough elopements to know that the little things can make a big difference.
The result? Gear that stays out of the way, moves with you, and allows me to focus on what really matters: capturing your love, adventure, and the small, fleeting moments that make your elopement uniquely yours.
Who This Option Is Perfect For (And Why Video Makes It Even Better)
Hybrid photo and video coverage isn’t for every couple. But it’s perfect for those who want more than just photos. It’s for couples who want to fully experience their day in the moment, and then relive it later in a more holistic way.
Elopement Photography and Videography Is Perfect For Couples Who:
✓⃝ Value Presence Over Production
You want to fully experience your day without feeling staged or observed.
✓⃝ Want Cohesive Storytelling
Having one person handle both photo and video ensures that your photo gallery and films really complement each other in color tone, style, and general vibe.
✓⃝ Care About Emotions as Much as Visuals
You want a film that makes you feel your day, not just see it—a keepsake that transports you back years later.
✓⃝ Prefer Simplicity & Flexibility
One person managing both mediums reduces logistics, allows the day to flow naturally, and gives you freedom to linger where you want.
✓⃝ Want to Remember Your Vows
It’s such a wonderful experience to get to re-live the moment your partner said their vows to you for the first time. Video gives you the chance.
By the end of the day, couples often tell me that having one person capture their elopement photography and videography made them feel more relaxed, more connected, and more present than they imagined possible. It’s not just about documentation—it’s about preserving the experience of your elopement in a way that photos or video alone can’t.
Elopement Photography and Videography FAQ’s
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I’ve been passionate about photography since middle school, and I even went to college for it. I started doing video right after school, and over the years I’ve spent time focusing deeply on each—photography for years, videography for years—before combining the two for outdoor elopements in late 2019. Since then, helping couples capture both photo and film together has been my full focus, especially for adventure-filled, intimate elopements.
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Yes, I do! I travel anywhere in western North Carolina and sometimes a little further, depending on the location. If you have a specific spot in mind, just reach out and we can talk through the details. I love exploring new places with couples and finding the perfect backdrop for your day.
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You can expect your full gallery and film within about six months. That timeline gives me the space to really craft your film so it’s something you’ll treasure for a lifetime. The good news is, you won’t have to wait that long to see a few moments from your day. I always send a small selection of sneak peek photos within the first week so you can start reliving those memories right away.
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I sure do! As a lifelong local, I know the area really well and stay on top of any updates to permits or regulations. I love helping couples plan every detail, from finding the perfect spot to making sure all the necessary permits are taken care of. My goal is to make this part easy so you can focus on enjoying your day without any stress.
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Absolutely! I’ll guide you in whatever way feels best for you. First, I get a sense of whether you’d like to be left mostly alone to experience the day naturally, letting me capture a more documentary-style story, or if you want a bit more direction with activities and moments to enjoy together. Most couples end up with a mix of both, and I adapt as the day unfolds so it feels effortless and real.
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I offer three main packages, all of which include both photo and video coverage, as well as planning support and a few other goodies to make your day go smoothly. They mainly vary in the amount of coverage time. There’s a mini package at 4 hours, a half-day package at 6 hours, and a full-day option at 10 hours. This way, you can choose the package that feels like the right fit for your day and the adventure you want to have.
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Once you’ve decided to work together, the first step is to reach out via my contact form, so we can chat about your day and see if I’m available. If it feels like a good fit, I’ll send over a contract and a deposit to officially hold your date. After that, we can start planning the details of your elopement together so everything feels smooth and stress-free leading up to your day.
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I typically don’t, since my focus is on providing both photo and video together, but I’m sometimes flexible. If that’s something you’re interested in, reach out! I’d love to chat and see if I’m available to make it happen.
If This Feels Like it Might Be a Fit…
Eloping is truly about being present with each other, and your day should feel calm, joyful, and completely yours. My goal is to capture both the big moments and the small, fleeting ones—the glances, the laughter, the hand squeezes—so you can relive your elopement and all the good vibes again and again.
If the idea of having one person handle both your elopement photography and videography feels like it could make your day easier and more connected, I’d love to hear from you. Whether you have questions about how hybrid coverage works, want to talk through your ideas, or just want to see if we’d be a good fit, reach out. Let’s chat and see how we can make your day feel effortless while capturing it beautifully.
Your story deserves to be documented in a way that feels real, intimate, and relaxed. When you’re ready, I’ll be here to make it happen.
