California elopement packages

For Introverted and Highly Sensitive Couples Who Feel Overwhelmed by Traditional Weddings

From planning support and personalized timelines to colorful, vibrant photography, every package is designed so you can focus on what matters most: each other.

Start Planning Your Elopement

California Elopement Packages

For Introverted and Highly Sensitive Couples Who Feel Overwhelmed by Traditional Weddings

From planning support and personalized timelines to colorful, vibrant photography, every package focuses on what matters most: each other.

Start Planning Your Elopement

Joshua Tree Elopement Bride and Groom during a vibrant Blue Hour night with Lanterns

Let me guess...

The thought of a big traditional wedding feels more overwhelming and draining than exciting.

You’d rather spend your day together in nature than perform for a crowd.

You want something meaningful, adventurous, and true to who you are.

You want a guide who can help make it all feel easy.

If you’re nodding your head right now, you’re my people. :)

Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming.

Especially when what you want doesn’t match what everyone else expects.

Maybe the thought of a big wedding feels exhausting.
Maybe you feel pressure from family, culture, or tradition.
Maybe you know you want something more meaningful, but you’re not sure where to start.

You deserve a day that feels unapologetically YOU.

Hey, i'm peter.

Bride and groom stand on cliff edge during sunset elopement at Taft Point, Yosemite

That’s where I come in.

And trust me, I know what it’s like to go against tradition… to say no to what everyone else thinks you should do, and yes to what actually makes you happy.

I’ve been there. And I decided to elope too, in Yosemite.

As your California elopement photographer and planning guide for small weddings, I’ll help with location scouting, permits, timeline planning, and authentic photography so you can just be present with each other.

Think of me as your all-in-one hiking guide, intimate wedding planning assistant, and supportive friend with a camera who handles the details, hypes you up, and captures you like the main characters of your own story.

Whether your dream day includes a sunrise hike, off-roading through the desert, lantern photos under the stars, or a cozy dinner with your favorite people, I’ll help bring it to life.

See What’s
Included

Hey, I'm peter.

That’s where I come in.

And trust me, I know what it’s like to go against tradition… to say no to what everyone else thinks you should do, and yes to what actually makes you happy.

I’ve been there. And I decided to elope too, in Yosemite.

Bride and groom stand on cliff edge during sunset elopement at Taft Point, Yosemite

As your California elopement photographer and planning guide for small weddings, I’ll help with location scouting, permits, timeline planning, and authentic photography so you can just be present with each other.

Think of me as your all-in-one hiking guide, intimate wedding planning assistant, and supportive friend with a camera who handles the details, hypes you up, and captures you like the main characters of your own story.

Whether your dream day includes a sunrise hike, off-roading through the desert, lantern photos under the stars, or a cozy dinner with your favorite people, I’ll help bring it to life.

See What’s
Included

Oahu Hawaii Elopement at Secret Island Beach with Peter 3 Photography, a Joshua Tree and Yosemite Elopement Photographer with bride and groom
Photographer captures Morgan and Jesse’s emotional vow exchange during golden hour elopement at Taft Point, Yosemite

Why Choose Me as Your Elopement Wingman?

Help you plan your entire day from scratch, so it feels like your kind of dream wedding

Find the perfect location (plus backups), so no matter what the weather’s doing, your day still feels epic

Guide you through permits and marriage license logistics, so you can relax and not have to stress about them

Create a relaxed timeline packed with fun ideas, so your day feels effortless, meaningful, and fun from start to finish

Recommend trusted vendors, so you don’t have to spend time Googling or stressing about who to hire

Suggest amazing places to stay and celebrate, so your wedding day feels exactly the way you imagined

Help you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera, so your photos feel natural, authentic, and truly you

Send 24 sneak peeks within 24 hours, because you shouldn’t have to wait weeks to relive your day

Provide custom checklists and packing tips, so you know exactly what to bring and don’t have to sweat the small stuff

And if you do forget something, no worries! I’ll have backups like headlamps, umbrellas, hand warmers, and cozy blankets ready to go

Because I’m more than just a photographer. I also:

And if you do forget something, no worries! I’ll have backups like headlamps, umbrellas, hand warmers, and cozy blankets ready to go

Help you plan your entire day from scratch, so it feels like your kind of dream wedding

Find the perfect location (plus backups), so no matter what the weather’s doing, your day still feels epic

Guide you through permits and marriage license logistics, so you can relax and not have to stress about them

Create a relaxed timeline packed with fun ideas, so your day feels effortless, meaningful, and fun from start to finish

Recommend trusted vendors, so you don’t have to spend time Googling or stressing about who to hire

Suggest amazing places to stay and celebrate, so your wedding day feels exactly the way you imagined

Help you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera, so your photos feel natural, authentic, and truly you

Send 24 sneak peeks within 24 hours, because you shouldn’t have to wait weeks to relive your day

Provide custom checklists and packing tips, so you know exactly what to bring and don’t have to sweat the small stuff

Oahu Hawaii Elopement at Secret Island Beach with Peter 3 Photography, a Joshua Tree and Yosemite Elopement Photographer with bride and groom

Why Choose Me as Your Elopement Wingman?

Because I’m more than just a photographer. I also:

And as an added bonus...I will bring the light with me.

Lighting is what separates me from the others

I bring lighting gear that most photographers don’t touch, and I know exactly how and when to use it.

Because your day deserves to look and feel magical, no matter what the light’s doing. When the sun dips, clouds roll in, or we hit blue hour, I bring the light with me. That extra pop is what takes your photos from great to magazine-worthy.

While I use natural light for most of the day, I’ve trained hard in off-camera flash to add that bold, cinematic edge. Most photographers worry when the light fades. But I actually get hyped, because that’s when my real art comes out!

Whether you’re hiking through golden hour, cuddling under lanterns, or dancing under the stars, I’ll bring my lighting A-game to create stunning images that feel true to the moment and visually unforgettable.

No harsh flash. No washed-out images. Just epic photos that’ll be LIT — literally. (Yes, pun totally intended!)

Glamis Sand Dunes elopement boho style with Asian bride and groom kissing at sunset

Lighting is what separates me from the others

I bring lighting gear that most photographers don’t touch, and I know exactly how and when to use it.

Because your day deserves to look and feel magical, no matter what the light’s doing. When the sun dips, clouds roll in, or we hit blue hour, I bring the light with me. That extra pop is what takes your photos from great to magazine-worthy.

While I use natural light for most of the day, I’ve trained hard in off-camera flash to add that bold, cinematic edge. Most photographers worry when the light fades. But I actually get hyped, because that’s when my real art comes out!

Whether you’re hiking through golden hour, cuddling under lanterns, or dancing under the stars, I’ll bring my lighting A-game to create stunning images that feel true to the moment and visually unforgettable.

No harsh flash. No washed-out images. Just epic photos that’ll be LIT — literally. (Yes, pun totally intended!)

More

Redwoods Elopement

Christina & vincent

"Peter was incredibly helpful throughout the planning process, guiding us through locations, timelines, vendors, and every detail so our day felt smooth and stress-free.

He kept us laughing, helped us feel natural in front of the camera, and truly went above and beyond for us.

When we received our photos, we were absolutely in love. The images exceeded our expectations and captured every moment beautifully.

We highly recommend Peter to anyone looking for a talented, professional, and genuinely fun photographer to work with."

Joshua Tree Elopement with Vietnamese couple wearing Ao Dai at Hidden Valley.

Eastern Sierra Elopement

Yani & Bren

"Peter helped with locations, permits, timing, and a personalized timeline, making the entire experience feel easy and stress-free.

It never felt like he was just taking photos. He was genuinely invested in our experience and how the day felt for us.

When we got our gallery back, all our favorite moments were there, from the epic mountain views to the candid memories in between.

If you're looking for someone kind, laid-back, and willing to go the extra mile, we'd 100% recommend Peter 3 Photography."

Joshua Tree Elopement with Vietnamese couple wearing Ao Dai at Hidden Valley.

The Peter 3 Experience

what's included in every elopement package:

The Great 8

24 sneak peek photos delivered within 24 hours of saying “I do.”
Same-day delivery of behind-the-scenes content from your day, ready to share with family and friends
Personalized planning and timeline creation to map out your dream day
My Elopement Planning Guide packed with location ideas, permit tips, packing lists, and expert advice
Unlimited support with permits, vendors, and logistics
Location scouting based on your story, personalities, and what matters most to you
My signature lighting techniques to create bold, vibrant, and epic photos that truly pop.
Travel throughout California and the continental U.S. is included, so I can meet you wherever your adventure takes you.

Joshua Tree Elopement with bride and groom watching vibrant sunset with lanterns

The Peter 3 Experience

included in every elopement package:

The Great 8

24 sneak peek photos delivered within 24 hours of saying “I do.”

Same-day delivery of behind-the-scenes content from your day, ready to share with family and friends

Personalized planning and timeline creation to map out your dream day

My Elopement Planning Guide packed with location ideas, permit tips, packing lists, and expert advice

Unlimited support with permits, vendors, and logistics

Location scouting based on your story, personalities, and what matters most to you

My signature lighting techniques to create bold, vibrant, and epic photos that truly pop.

Travel throughout California and the continental U.S. is included, so I can meet you wherever your adventure takes you.

Choose The Experience That Fits You Best

You don’t have to choose a wedding day that makes everyone else happy.

You deserve an experience built around what matters most to you.

Each package combines help with planning, epic photos, and someone who's got your back so you can stress less and actually enjoy getting married!

Find the experience below that feels right for you.

California elopement packages

Elopement experiences starting at $6,000

Groom lifting his bride in a romantic embrace with Half Dome and the Yosemite mountains in the background.

LFG! Experience

Multi-Day Elopement

12 Hours of Coverage • 4+ Locations • 2 Days • Premium heirloom album included

Perfect for couples who want the time and freedom to experience everything that matters most so that you can celebrate at your own pace without feeling rushed or limited by a single day.

Imagine starting the first morning with a sunrise hike and private vows, grabbing coffee at your favorite local spot, celebrating over lunch, exploring epic landscapes at sunset, and ending the day under the stars.

Then on day two, you can slow things down even more with a relaxed celebration alongside your closest family and friends, or spend another day exploring scenic locations and doing activities you both love—so that you can create an intimate post-wedding experience that feels completely unforgettable.

Most multi-day elopements take place within the same general region and over consecutive days, allowing you to experience more while keeping travel stress to a minimum.

Package-Specific Inclusions

Up to 12 hours of coverage split across 2 days

4+ locations

Premium heirloom album designed to tell the story of your entire adventure for generations to come

Ideal for multiple sunrise, sunset, and stargazing experiences

Perfect for couples who want an intimate adventure and a relaxed celebration with family and friends

This is our vibe

most popular!

Star night portrait photo of elopement couple in Joshua Tree jumbo rocks.

Golden Light Experience

Full Day Elopement

10 HOURS OF COVERAGE • 3–4 LOCATIONS

Perfect for couples who want the freedom to slow down, be fully present, and experience every meaningful part of their day so that you can focus less on schedules and logistics and more on being together.

Imagine getting ready at a cozy Airbnb, sharing private vows at an epic location, celebrating over a picnic or your favorite local restaurant, exploring multiple scenic spots throughout the day, catching a breathtaking sunset, and ending with lantern photos beneath the stars.

As my most popular package, this experience offers the perfect balance of adventure, flexibility, and coverage. You’ll have enough time to capture some of the most magical light of the day—including sunrise, golden hour, sunset, blue hour, and even starry night or Milky Way photos—while still having space to slow down, be present, and fully enjoy your experience.

Package-Specific Inclusions

Up to 10 hours of coverage on 1 day

3–4 locations

More flexibility for activities and travel between locations

My most popular package for couples dreaming of sunrise, sunset, blue hour, and EPIC star photos

This is our vibe

Adventure Experience

half Day Elopement

8 HOURS OF COVERAGE • 2–3 LOCATIONS

Perfect for couples who want an adventurous elopement experience without committing to sunrise-to-starlight coverage.

You'll have plenty of time to create a meaningful experience so that you can focus on the moments that matter most without feeling rushed.

Rather than trying to include every activity and moment, this package focuses on the highlights: your vows, your favorite adventure, incredible scenery, and plenty of time to simply enjoy being together.

Whether that means exploring a couple of epic locations, sharing a laid-back picnic, or catching an unforgettable sunset, this experience is designed for couples who want a balance of adventure, simplicity, and intentionality.

Package-Specific Inclusions

Up to 8 hours of coverage on 1 day

2–3 locations

Ideal for a sunrise-to-sunset OR sunset-to-starlight experience

Perfect for couples who want an adventurous experience focused on the highlights

A relaxed timeline without the need for all-day coverage

This is our vibe

Sunset & Chill Experience

mini Elopement
(LIMITED AVAILABILITY)

4 HOURS OF COVERAGE • 1-2 LOCATIONS

Perfect for couples who want to keep things simple, intentional, and stress-free.

This experience is designed for couples who don’t need an all-day adventure and would rather focus on a handful of meaningful moments together so that you can celebrate your relationship without turning your elopement into a full-day production.

Imagine sharing private vows at a beautiful location, exploring a nearby trail, watching the sun rise or set, and creating a collection of authentic photos that tell the story of your day.

Whether you’re planning a just-us-two elopement, a simple vow exchange, or a laid-back celebration, this package focuses on what matters most: each other.

Package-Specific Inclusions

Up to 4 hours of coverage on 1 day

1–2 nearby locations

Ideal for a sunrise OR sunset experience

A relaxed timeline focused on your vows, portraits, and meaningful moments

Limited availability each year

This is our vibe

Peter 3 Photography Elopement Packages Summary

Elopement experiences range from $6,000–$9,500, depending on the amount of coverage, locations, and planning support you need.

More

Joshua Tree Elopement

Kimmee & Kelly

"Peter made our shoot feel so fun and comfortable — the little touches meant everything."

"Peter was professional, creative, and instantly got our vision. As first-timers in front of the camera, he made us feel totally at ease and kept things fun. He came prepared with a full plan, helped set the vibe, and captured the most stunning sunset photos in Joshua Tree. We were blown away by the sneak peeks the next day and how fast we got our full gallery. We can’t wait to book him for our wedding next!"


Joshua Tree Elopement with Vietnamese couple wearing Ao Dai at Hidden Valley.

Joshua Tree Elopement

Maria & Irvin

"We don’t see them just like photos — but instead a perfect representation of us and our love story."

"Peter made us feel instantly comfortable — like hanging out with a friend who just happened to have a camera. What meant the most was how much he genuinely cared and never rushed us. The photos are stunning, but the experience itself was unforgettable.

If you’re thinking about working with Peter — do it. You won’t just get beautiful photos — you’ll get memories you’ll treasure forever."

Joshua Tree Elopement Bride and Groom portrait at Cholla Cactus Garden kissing during golden sunset with off camera flash.

Not Sure Which Package Fits You Best?

Every couple is different, and your elopement should be too.

Whether you’re dreaming of a sunrise hike in Yosemite, an off-road adventure in the desert, a cozy beach ceremony, or a multi-day experience with a scenic helicopter ride, I’ll help you choose the package that fits your vision best.

And if none of the options feel quite right, I’m happy to create a custom experience tailored to what matters most to you.

No pressure. No wedding just for Instagram. Just a day that feels undoubtedly yours.

Inquire for a Custom Quote 

Yosemite National Park elopement at Taft Point with bride and groom hiking in forest at sunset.

Feeling stoked? Here are the next steps.

1) Inquire

Fill out a quick contact form and tell me all about you two: who you are, what you love, and the kind of day you’re dreaming up.

2) Virtual call

We’ll hop on a quick virtual call to talk through your vision, answer questions, and make sure we’re a great fit. I’ll walk you through the experience, explain the package options, and help you figure out what feels right for your day.

3) Make it Official

Ready to roll? You’ll sign a contract and pay a 50% deposit to lock in your date.

4) Plan & Elope

You’ll get a planning questionnaire, I’ll start researching location specifics, and together we’ll design a customized timeline. Then comes the big day! You two get to live it up and be fully present while I capture it all. Sneak peeks in 24 hours. Full gallery in 4 weeks.

Okay! Let's Elope!

But wait - can we bring guests?

Whether it’s just the two of you or your BESTIES tagging along, I’m here for it.

One of the biggest myths about eloping is that you can’t invite guests.

The truth? Many of my couples celebrate with a small group of family and friends while still keeping the day relaxed, meaningful, and focused on each other.

Most of my couples keep it under 15 guests, which helps the day feel intimate and stress-free. It also opens up more location options, since many parks and elopement permits become more restrictive as guest counts grow.

Whether it’s just the two of you or your favorite people tagging along, I’ll help create an epic day either way.

Okay! Let's Elope!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to elope?
Eloping is often much more affordable than a traditional wedding. Most of my couples invest between $6,000–$9,500 for an intentional elopement experience that includes photography, planning support, location guidance, and a personalized timeline.

Beyond photography, couples may also budget for permits, an officiant, florals, hair and makeup, lodging, activities, and travel. The final cost depends on your location, guest count, and how adventurous you want your day to be.

Compared to a traditional wedding that can easily cost $30,000–$50,000+, many couples find that eloping allows them to invest in what matters most: meaningful experiences, beautiful locations, and time together.

Can we bring guests?
Absolutely! Whether it’s just the two of you or your closest crew tagging along — I’m totally down. Though guest limits vary by park and ceremony location, most of my couples keep it under 15 guests to keep the day feeling intimate and worry-free. Just a heads up — more people means more logistics like bathrooms, parking, and seating, which can limit where we go. But if you do bring guests, I’ll help plan around it so everything still feels fun and easygoing.

When do we get our photos?
You’ll get 24 sneak peek photos within 24 hours of your elopement day. Bonus gifts: extra behind-the-scenes photos + videos Airdropped to you before we part ways. Full gallery delivery in just 4 weeks.

How many photos will we get?
You’ll receive a MINIMUM of 50 photos per hour of coverage — all edited and delivered in high-resolution and delivered via a beautiful online gallery.

What if we have bad weather?
No problem — I always have a solid backup plan. If the weather takes a turn, I’ve already scouted alternate spots that are still beautiful and aligned with your vision. And honestly? A little drizzle paired with a clear umbrella can make for some incredible, magazine-worthy photos.

If weather becomes a real hazard, we’ll talk about options like rescheduling to a nearby date or shifting the timeline. I’ll keep a close eye on the forecast as your elopement day approaches and make sure we’re ready for whatever the day brings.

Do we have to hike in our dress or suit?
Not at all! Most couples hike in comfortable clothes and change once we reach the location. You can pack your dress or suit in a garment bag and attach it to your backpack. And if you’re not comfortable changing behind a tree or boulder, I’ve got a pop-up changing tent for privacy.

Many elopement brides also choose detachable trains or overskirts, which let you hike more comfortably and then add that dramatic, flowy look once it’s time for photos and vows.

The goal is simple: stay comfortable during the adventure and look amazing when it matters most.

Do you offer video services?
Yep! I offer simple video packages, as well as more polished documentary films through one of my trusted videographer partners.

What about lodging, food, and things to do?
I got you! I’ll recommend awesome places to stay, eat, and play based on your location and interests. Whether you're into cozy cabins, private chefs, or have specific food preferences, I’ll offer some options for you.

What if you’ve never been to our desired location?
Oh, that’s part of the thrill for me! I love exploring new places and finding new hidden gems. I always arrive a day or two early to scout out the area and observe how the sunlight hits at the time of your elopement, so everything runs smoothly on the day-of.

What are your travel costs?
Travel throughout California and the continental U.S. is included in all elopement packages, so there are no surprise travel fees. Alaska, Hawaii, and international destinations receive a custom travel quote based on the location and logistics. Either way, I’ll keep everything clear and simple so you can focus on enjoying your adventure.

I’m awkward in front of the camera. What can you do?
No worries! I’ll keep things fun and relaxed so you can just be yourselves. Most of the time, I’ll be at a distance, capturing natural, candid moments. When needed, I’ll guide you with prompts and gentle direction to help you feel at ease and looking your best.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to elope?
Eloping is often much more affordable than a traditional wedding. Most of my couples invest between $6,000–$9,500 for an intentional elopement experience that includes photography, planning support, location guidance, and a personalized timeline.

Beyond photography, couples may also budget for permits, an officiant, florals, hair and makeup, lodging, activities, and travel. The final cost depends on your location, guest count, and how adventurous you want your day to be.

Compared to a traditional wedding that can easily cost $30,000–$50,000+, many couples find that eloping allows them to invest in what matters most: meaningful experiences, beautiful locations, and time together.

Can we bring guests?
Absolutely! Whether it’s just the two of you or your closest crew tagging along — I’m totally down. Though guest limits vary by park and ceremony location, most of my couples keep it under 15 guests to keep the day feeling intimate and worry-free. Just a heads up — more people means more logistics like bathrooms, parking, and seating, which can limit where we go. But if you do bring guests, I’ll help plan around it so everything still feels fun and easygoing.

When do we get our photos?
You’ll get 24 sneak peek photos within 24 hours of your elopement day. Bonus gifts: extra behind-the-scenes photos + videos Airdropped to you before we part ways. Full gallery delivery in just 4 weeks.

How many photos will we get?
You’ll receive a MINIMUM of 50 photos per hour of coverage — all edited and delivered in high-resolution and delivered via a beautiful online gallery.

What if we have bad weather?
No problem — I always have a solid backup plan. If the weather takes a turn, I’ve already scouted alternate spots that are still beautiful and aligned with your vision. And honestly? A little drizzle paired with a clear umbrella can make for some incredible, magazine-worthy photos.

If weather becomes a real hazard, we’ll talk about options like rescheduling to a nearby date or shifting the timeline. I’ll keep a close eye on the forecast as your elopement day approaches and make sure we’re ready for whatever the day brings.

Do we have to hike in our dress or suit?
Not at all! Most couples hike in comfortable clothes and change once we reach the location. You can pack your dress or suit in a garment bag and attach it to your backpack. And if you’re not comfortable changing behind a tree or boulder, I’ve got a pop-up changing tent for privacy.

Many elopement brides also choose detachable trains or overskirts, which let you hike more comfortably and then add that dramatic, flowy look once it’s time for photos and vows.

The goal is simple: stay comfortable during the adventure and look amazing when it matters most.

Do you offer video services?
Yep! I offer simple video packages, as well as more polished documentary films through one of my trusted videographer partners.

What about lodging, food, and things to do?
I got you! I’ll recommend awesome places to stay, eat, and play based on your location and interests. Whether you're into cozy cabins, private chefs, or have specific food preferences, I’ll offer some options for you.

What if you’ve never been to our desired location?
Oh, that’s part of the thrill for me! I love exploring new places and finding new hidden gems. I always arrive a day or two early to scout out the area and observe how the sunlight hits at the time of your elopement, so everything runs smoothly on the day-of.

What are your travel costs?
Travel throughout California and the continental U.S. is included in all elopement packages, so there are no surprise travel fees. Alaska, Hawaii, and international destinations receive a custom travel quote based on the location and logistics. Either way, I’ll keep everything clear and simple so you can focus on enjoying your adventure.

I’m awkward in front of the camera. What can you do?
No worries! I’ll keep things fun and relaxed so you can just be yourselves. Most of the time, I’ll be at a distance, capturing natural, candid moments. When needed, I’ll guide you with prompts and gentle direction to help you feel at ease and looking your best.

Okay, are you as HYPED as I AM to start planning your EPIC Elopement?

Yes! Let's start planning!

Tell me about your dream day

And if you don't have any solid details yet, totally okay! Just give me your best answers below, and I’ll help guide you toward a location and experience that best fits you. :)