If you’ve ever caught yourself daydreaming about shooting love stories on a cliffside in Santorini, a vineyard in Tuscany, or a windswept beach in Tulum — you’re not alone. Becoming a destination wedding photographer is a dream for many, but it takes more than a passport and pretty presets to turn that dream into a sustainable, thriving career.
Here’s a guide to help you break into the world of destination weddings — with heart, intention, and a business that backs it all up.
1.
Build a Portfolio That Speaks the Language of Travel
Before couples trust you to fly halfway around the world and document their big day, they need to see that you get the vibe. Even if you haven’t shot an international wedding yet, you can still build destination-style content.
How?
- Attend styled shoots or retreats abroad (like the ones I host!)
- Create elopement-style sessions locally that feel intimate and wanderlust-worthy
- Collaborate with travel bloggers, brands, or adventurous couples in scenic locations
Your portfolio should show diversity in settings, lighting conditions, and couple styles — the kind of work that tells couples, “Yep, I can handle anything from beachy humidity to mountaintop mist.”
2.
Nail the Logistics — And Flaunt It
The most successful destination wedding photographers don’t just take beautiful photos — they solve problems. That means helping with:
- Travel planning + accommodations
- Location scouting and backup spots
- Navigating local laws and elopement permits
- Time zones, timelines, and weather challenges
Pro Tip: Talk about this on your website, in your captions, and in client calls. When you own the logistics, you become more than a photographer — you become indispensable.
3.
Make Yourself Bookable Anywhere
It’s one thing to say, “I love travel!”
It’s another to make it easy for people to book you no matter where they are.
- Have travel info clearly on your website (where you’re available, what travel fees look like, dream destinations, etc.)
- Show up in location-based hashtags and SEO keywords (e.g. “Tulum Wedding Photographer” or “Eloping in Tuscany”)
- Plan travel in advance and advertise where you’ll be — couples love hopping on your travel schedule to save costs
4.
Lean into Adventure — and Say It Loudly
Couples eloping abroad or planning a destination wedding aren’t looking for a photographer who just shows up. They want someone who’s in it with them — who’s down to hike at sunrise, brave the rain, or dance barefoot on a black sand beach.
Let your personality come through! Whether it’s on Instagram, your website, or in DMs, share that you’re:
-Down for an adventure
-Comfortable with the unknown
-A calm, problem-solving presence on emotional days
5.
Invest in Connection, Not Just Content
Yes, content is key — but in the world of destination weddings, your network matters just as much.
- Attend destination workshops and styled retreats to meet vendors, planners, and like-minded photographers
- Build relationships with local vendors abroad — florists, planners, venues
- Get testimonials from adventurous couples and leverage that word-of-mouth
People don’t just hire your work. They hire your energy, your vision, and your ability to hold space.
Let's Recap
Show What You Want to Shoot
Clients need to see that you’re a good fit for their destination wedding—so show them! Even if you haven’t shot a wedding abroad yet, you can:
- Use styled shoots in similar settings (beaches, mountains, villas)
- Travel on your own and photograph couples, elopements, or even editorial content
- Edit past work to highlight natural backdrops and travel vibes
Your portfolio is your proof—so curate it to reflect the kind of weddings you want to book.
Talk About It Everywhere
Make it known that you’re available for travel!
- Add “Destination Wedding Photographer” to your bio, website, and social media
- Mention your dream locations or travel availability in captions and blog posts
- Use relevant hashtags like #destinationweddingphotographer, #elopementphotographer, etc.
The more you talk about it, the more people associate you with it.
Offer Travel Incentives (At First) + Partner with Planners & Vendors
For your first few destination weddings, consider offering:
- Waived or discounted travel fees
- All-inclusive pricing (easy for couples to understand)
- Special destination packages
You’re building trust and your portfolio—so be strategic about what you offer while still valuing your work.
Destination wedding planners are gold. Connect with them on Instagram, styled shoots, or at networking events. They often refer photographers they know and trust.
Also:
- Join vendor directories (especially those focused on destination weddings)
- Collaborate with travel-savvy vendors to build mutual referrals
Make It Easy for Clients + Get Legal & Logistical Ducks in a Row
Couples planning a wedding far from home already have a lot going on. Be the photographer who makes things easier.
- Be clear and upfront about travel costs
- Share guides, tips, and timelines for destination days
- Communicate often and be flexible—things shift quickly when planning abroad
Make sure you’re legally allowed to work in the country (some destinations require permits or visas). Travel insurance, gear protection, and backup plans are key.
Also, know the basics like:
- How to fly with gear
- Time zone/time change planning
- Backup systems for files while traveling
Take it from me
Why I Stand Out in the Destination World
As someone who specializes in destination weddings and elopements, I don’t just show up to shoot — I help my couples bring their dream day to life. That means:
-Scouting unique and jaw-dropping locations
-Handling permits, timelines, and logistics
-Being present, grounded, and always down for an epic adventure
Whether it’s the cliffs of Ireland or the cenotes of Tulum, I’m there — not just with my camera, but with full-on support and creative direction.
Ready to Take the Leap?
Becoming a destination wedding photographer isn’t about being everywhere — it’s about being in the right places, with the right people, at the right time.
If you’re dreaming of shooting weddings across the world, start building the foundation now. Say yes to the adventure. Lean into connection. And create work that transports people — even before they book the flight.
Got questions? Click below to inquire on our elopement photography services or to join one of our upcoming Retreats as a fellow creative!
