Desert Wedding & Elopement Inspiration for Joshua Tree, Zion National Park, and Arches National Park

For more information on my desert elopement photography packages, contact me today!

Let’s be real: weddings have drastically changed since 2020. One of my favorite parts of the shift? Adventurous brides, desert elopements, and destination weddings. My destination wedding photography is built upon connection and wonder: to me, desert weddings overflow with both.

If you’re getting married in Joshua Tree, planning an elopement in Zion National Park, or maybe the perfect engagement in Arches National Park, one thing you must know: your wedding photographer should be your adventurous sidekick, well aware of all the details it takes to make the desert a dream.

As you explore desert wedding photographer options from California, Utah or Arizona, I wanted to share some desert wedding inspiration as you plan your adventure.

ESSENTIAL TIPS

Whether your wedding is  “just the two of us” or your family’s invited to celebrate, there are a few key considerations. As a photographer who has shot countless elopements across National Parks and weddings throughout the mountains of Colorado, here’s what I think you’ve gotta know.

• Your dress will get dusty – don’t worry. A dress is meant to be worn, so this is part of the adventure! At the end of the day, it adds character to desert weddings. I ensure the best dress angles are captured; plus, wedding wardrobe changes can made on hikes or sunrise photoshoots. Your only sweat should come from the hike or dance floor, not worrying about the dusty trail!

• Comfortable shoes matter. Ladies and gents, do not underestimate this. Get your dream formal pair of heels (brides, I love a chunky heel). But importantly, dust off or invest in hiking boots while we’re walking through the desert too so you can enjoy the scenery without blisters.

• Eloping in the desert is untraditional, your budget can be too! Dried wedding floral arrangements, a dramatic rustic wedding gown, or top tier cuisine for a small guest list? Splurge on whichever details are important. It’s your day, after all!

As you seek inspiration for your modern desert wedding, enjoy this recent romantic couple photoshoot in Joshua Tree, California.

PHOTOGRAPHER INVESTMENT

An intimate wedding of your closest friends or a large destination wedding, the right photographer will capture the day as it happened; bringing life and authenticity to photos to enjoy for years to come. Traditional portraits will be made, but the right partner will capture your wedding’s reality – in all its sun-kissed glory and in the small, unexpected moments. Another reality? Desert elopements and destination weddings deserve extra attention to detail.

A destination photography package should go beyond the photography. An experienced photographer will assist in planning many of the key details for the desert. As for Jamie Pratt Photos, I’ll always schedule a call to plan a timeline that prioritizes timing for a golden hour glow, perfectly measured hike schedules, and everything bride need to pack for a desert wedding. And? I’ll ensure we acquire necessary dessert photography permits: this last one’s a biggie, but I’ve got you covered.

Inspired with years of experience in unique desert photoshoot ideas across California, Utah, and Arizona, I have multiple desert elopement photography packages and a heart for adventure. I would (ahem, obviously!) love to chat with you about being your 2022 or 2023 destination wedding photographer.

All of this beautiful Joshua Tree inspiration is full of vendors who loooove the desert: Rue De Seine gown from LVD Bridal in Nashville (yes, you can fly your dress out with you and the whole plane will be sure to congratulate you!) and styling by Shannon Tommy.