FAQs

Where are you available?

I am local to Portland, Oregon, and frequently travel both domestically and internationally.  I have photographed all over the United States in cities and National Parks and the wilderness, and internationally in places such as New Zealand, Australia, Iceland, Spain, England, Scotland, Denmark, Sweden, and the Faroe Islands. I’m quite comfortable in new places and will be happy to join you wherever your dreams take you.

I'm a rock climber, so if you're getting married on the crag, count me in. I’m also a hiker, so if you’re planning to pack out a few miles and get hitched, I’m ready.

What is your style?

I blend photojournalism with artistic portraiture and landscape techniques.  I will quietly document your journey and important moments, and guide you as we create portraits in the wilds of nature.  Expect an enthusiastic, calm, experienced companion for your adventure.

How do we choose a location?

Get ready for the best homework you’ve ever had. As a long-time wedding and landscape photographer, and a native of the Pacific Northwest, I have a long list of ideas to share with you! I also have a lot of favorite international locations, and I’d be happy to twist your arm into exploring those as well.

What is your reservation process?

To hold your date and provide planning assistance, I require a 50% retainer with your contract.  Your balance is due two weeks prior to your wedding date.

Can I get your opinion on outfits, flowers, ideas…?

Yes! I have lots of information in my Elopement Advice section, have great vendor/professional recommendations here, and am always happy to help you with any questions you may have (truly!).

What about weather?

The Pacific Northwest occasionally offers weather challenges in the form of rain, snow, and wind, which is part of why this area is so beautiful and dynamic.  I'm equipped with GoreTex, dry bags, and weather-resistant gear.  If the weather is being especially ornery on the day of your wedding, we can discuss options including changing locations, time of day, etc.  Very seldom will I recommend rescheduling, and if I do, you'll know it's because I feel the conditions are too severe to be safe, or for my gear to perform as needed.

How dirty will we get?

That's entirely up to you!  Most sessions result in some slight dampness, mud, sand, or greenery (we will be outside, after all), but I will almost never recommend a location or pose that will fully soak, dirty, or destroy your clothing unless you encourage it.  If you want to fully trash your finery, please let me know. 

How do I make my elopement or tiny wedding legal?

You can collect your marriage license from the local county courthouse (Multnomah County’s office is in SE Portland, and their website with helpful information is here)**, and anyone who has been ordained may perform your ceremony. I highly recommend using a celebrant or officiant who has experience, such as the list of marvelous individuals on my resources page, or someone you love and trust. You will need two witnesses beyond the officiant (I’m happy to be one).

I am also ordained and can sign paperwork for you after you exchange your vows, as long as we’re in a location where we can find two willing witnesses (and you don’t require photos of the legal ceremony).

** During Covid-related shutdowns, many counties are doing marriage licenses by mail.

How do you feel about same-sex weddings?

I enthusiastically, wholeheartedly support marriage equality.

I'm eloping this week.  Are you free?

I very likely have an opening of some kind, unless I’m traveling. I highly recommend you call me (or text if that’s more your style) if you're only a few days out, and we can discuss schedules quickly.

Not a question, but:

Commitment to natural areas and not being a jerk

Keeping natural areas in good shape is a shared responsibility of everyone who cares about the future of the planet. I am committed to finding places where we are not adversely affecting natural areas, and you may hear me say “I don’t photograph elopements there anymore”. Some waterfalls are closed at the base due to habitat restoration and/or dangerous conditions (like Panther Creek Falls), and I will absolutely not take my clients past a closure or area restoration sign.