Red rock elopement - Same sex elopement in Utah
I photographed this gorgeous red rock elopement in Utah and can’t wait to share some of the photos. Getting married on red rocks is like making a statement: “we’re adventurous and we’re cooler than other couples” Or is that just what I think? (Ok you’re all cool). But seriously, having red rocks for your elopement venue brings in gorgeous earthy elements. I love how it adds dimension to the background and enhances everything about your elopement photography.
If you haven’t decided where to elope, there are so many red rock areas to elope in Utah. Red ledges, Moab, Canyonlands, Goblin Valley, St. George, the list goes on. It’s been especially nice with our weird winter to have red rocks as a plan B, and they have made all my clients so happy! (YAY.)
This couple eloping in Utah was a dream to work with. The boho feel of the details and location with their colors worked out so beautifully.
And the white pantsuit, SO gooooood!!! It almost feels like a boho fairytale, right? If you’re considering eloping in Utah or at red rock areas, I got you.
What should I know about eloping at the Red Rocks or Red Ledges?
If you’re thinking about eloping or getting elopement photography at red rocks or red ledges, there are a few things to note:
Your photographer needs to have a commercial permit. How to get a commercial permit depends on a few things, like location (who owns the land?), and what the permit is for. Your photographer should apply for the permit at least 30 days before the event so that the photography permit is active in time. There are substantial fees and consequences if you don’t have the proper permits, so make sure this is taken care of! Some permit-givers are only in charge of 1-2 cities in specific forests, and others you would go to Salt Lake City Bureau Management. (You can always start there and ask for specific contacts) This particularly applies if there will be a grouping or if you will have any props, like a backdrop stand, or other setups.
Your shoes and outfits may get dirty. Make sure that if you are doing bridals in wedding attire that you have enough time between your session and wedding or elopement to dry-clean your gown and/or suit.
Some areas, like the red ledges, have rock climbers. We were almost hit head-on by a piece of heavy equipment with no warning. That taught me to be in clear communication with anyone else on the premises- let them know where you will be and what you are doing so you can both stay out of each other’s way and avoid accidents.
Respect the land. Leave it better than you found it. If you see other people’s garbage- toss it. Be kind to the earth or permits will no longer be allowed for photography in these adventurous spots.
5. Time of day is important!!! Shoot for either trekking out 30 minutes before sunrise or starting 1 hour to 90 minutes before sunset. Utah has sunsets that come and go quickly. Sunrises in Utah are also gorgeous, but once you have sunlight, it tends to be harsh, so make sure you are there and ready to go EARLY. Same goes for sunset. You don’t want to be running behind when you’re on the sun’s clock. Avoid an elopement taking place in the afternoon, not only for photography, but for your own well being.
6. Do red rocks in Utah get snowy? Sometimes! This depends which red rocks you’re eloping at and what time of year. Even south areas like Moab have been getting snowfall, but you’re less likely to have snow in St. George or further South, unless there has been a strong recent snow storm. Spanish Fork, Springville, Salt Lake City, and anywhere North of Salt Lake City gets the most snowfall, and there WILL be snow throughout the winter season. Every year is different, but roughly late November to mid-April is when canyons are covered in snow. The higher the altitude of the red rocks, the higher chance of snow-cover. The Red Ledges in Springville don’t typically have snow covering them, unless there has been a strong recent snow storm. (I should note I have never photographed the red ledges November through February, but March and April there was not any snowfall the last couple of years).
7. Wear proper footwear. You will likely be hiking up rocks and hills or in mud or sand… definitely wear hiking shoes and you can bring heels in a bag if you want to show them off for any photos. (I personally love the adventure wedding look of wedding dress with hiking boots or docs and we can incorporate both!)
Elopement photography is such an intimate yet adventurous way to both create and preserve memories. I will ALWAYS recommend eloping - you can have a wedding celebration too at a later date! There’s just something so magical about going on an adventure on your own and making a big decision without the pressure of other people.
If you are eloping in Utah or the PNW and looking for the best elopement photographer, I hope you’ll reach out! I would love to connect and get to know you better. We have limited dates left in 2023 and are booking 2024 weddings and elopements.
If you have any other questions about eloping or elopement photography, reach out, I’d love to help.
xx
Jules
Datura Photo
Utah + destination elopement photographer