Elopement Photography

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Telluride Elopement Photographer

Most couples who elope in the San Juan Mountains are not trying to skip a wedding. They are choosing a day built around the two of them, the light, and a place that feels like it belongs to them. I photograph elopements across Telluride and the surrounding San Juan Mountains, and most of my work happens before the ceremony: finding the right place for your season, timing the day around the light, and handling the logistics so the two of you can stay present.

You tell me what you picture, whether that is a hike to a high basin, a short walk into a wildflower meadow, or a drive deep into the high country, and I will help you find the version of it that works on your date. I keep my favorite locations private, so they stay quiet for the couples who come after you.

I love to create vibrant, authentic moments for your most memorable days.

Find me on Wedding wire- a professional Telluride photographer
Telluride photographer as seen on The Knot
I'm Julien Kibler, a professional Telluride photographer

The How to Elope Guide

Every couple who books an elopement with me receives my 92-page How to Elope guide. It is the planning support behind every elopement I photograph, written for couples planning a day in the San Juan Mountains, and it goes out as soon as you book.

You do not have to figure this out on your own.

Elopement Photography Pricing

Starting at

$3,500

A premium elopement package crafted for intimate mountain celebrations

  • Unique location guide for finding your perfect mountain ceremony spot

  • Consultation video call to plan your perfect elopement experience

  • Custom timeline creation to ensure a smooth, stress-free day

  • 24-hour sneak peek for immediate social media sharing

  • Personalized online gallery with unlimited downloads

  • Unlimited assistance throughout your elopement journey

  • Your 92-page How to Elope guide as soon as you book

  • Off-road vehicle access to remote high-country locations

  • I also film, so your elopement can be told in motion as well as in photographs. See my videography work.

Elopement Photography

Guidance

1. Scouting secluded mountain locations perfect for intimate ceremonies and private vows.

2. Reading the vibe and knowing when to step back and let intimate moments unfold.

3. Finding the hidden spots where light and landscape create natural altars.

4. Creating backup location options to ensure your day stays perfect, no matter what.

5. Creating a comfortable, laid-back atmosphere where you can be genuinely yourselves!

Find me on Wedding wire- a professional Telluride photographer

Experience

The mountains are nature’s cathedral, your love writes the story. Here’s how we craft your perfect elopement day:

  • Identifying the perfect time and place for your ceremony
  • Creating a relaxed flow that lets you truly be present
  • Documenting those spontaneous, joy-filled moments
  • Pose guidance that feels authentic and captures your personalities best
Telluride photographer as seen on The Knot

Creativity

Some couples choose sunrise on a mountain peak, others prefer sunset in a hidden valley. Each elopement reflects the unique way you’ve chosen to begin your journey together.

My intimate knowledge of these peaks means knowing exactly where to be when the light turns magical, ensuring your elopement photos are as extraordinary as your choice to celebrate your way.

Each frame captures not just the view, but the feeling of choosing an epic adventure over tradition.

★★★★★

“Julien was wonderful as our elopement photographer! He was always quick to respond to my million questions and location ideas in the months leading up to our arrival in CO. I was confident he’d choose the best area for our photos and blown away when we saw them in person, as well as when we saw our photos! I highly recommend Julien Kibler Studio for all your photography needs.”

Morgan McGuire
Elopement · Google review

★★★★★

“Julien was absolutely amazing to work with! From choosing our location to the final execution of our elopement, it was a dream. We couldn’t have asked for a more intimate and tailored experience! We can’t wait to visit again and have him take our anniversary pictures next year.🤍”

mindy malphrus
Elopement · Google review

★★★★★

“Julien not only captured our surprise engagement photos out near Telluride, he also traveled to Golden, CO to take our wedding photos as well. It was such a full circle experience. Julien is extremely responsive, professional and cheeky (which we loved on our wedding day). We are so excited to see the full album of pictures he captured from our wedding as well know his work is beyond extraordinary!!”

Krista Danna
Engagement and wedding · Google review

Hiking Elopements in the San Juan Mountains

Some of the most meaningful elopements I photograph happen at the end of a trail. A hiking elopement means the two of you walk to your ceremony, say your vows somewhere you earned, and have the place almost entirely to yourselves. The hike can be an easy hour through the aspens or a full morning climbing toward a high basin, and we choose it together based on your fitness, the season, and how much of the day you want to spend on foot.

Altitude is the part most couples underestimate. Much of the high country here sits above 10,000 feet, so I plan the pace around it, build in time to rest, and help you think through layers, footwear, and how to carry your dress or suit until the ceremony. Weather moves quickly in the mountains, so every hiking plan has a backup.

Not every remote spot requires a long walk. I can also drive the two of you into the high country in my off-road vehicle, which opens up places most visitors never reach and keeps the day relaxed if a long hike is not for you.

I describe my locations by region only, so the quiet places stay quiet. Once you book, we choose yours together.

Elopement FAQ.

While timing varies based on your vision, I typically recommend at least 4 hours to capture getting ready moments, your ceremony, couple’s portraits, and any post-ceremony celebrations. We’ll create a custom timeline that ensures a relaxed, unhurried experience.

As a Telluride elopement photographer, I recommend June through October for the most versatile conditions. Late June through August offers the warmest weather and access to high-alpine locations like Bridal Veil Falls, perfect for couples wanting dramatic mountain backdrops without snow concerns. September is my personal favorite for Telluride elopement photography – you’ll get stunning golden aspens, crisp mountain air, and fewer crowds, creating that intimate atmosphere most couples crave. Early October can be magical with fall colors, though weather becomes more unpredictable. Winter elopements (December-March) offer a completely different but equally breathtaking experience, with snow-covered peaks and cozy downtown Telluride vibes, though location options become more limited.

Mountain weather is dynamic! I monitor conditions closely and always have backup locations ready. Plus, some of the most dramatic and beautiful photos come from embracing the weather – think moody clouds or snow-capped peaks!

Yes! While elopements are typically intimate, you’re welcome to include a small group of loved ones. I’ll help create a timeline that balances private moments with group celebrations.

Unless you have a specific place in mind, after booking, we’ll have a consultation call to discuss your vision. I’ll then share my location guide featuring hidden gems across Western Colorado, from alpine lakes to aspen groves, helping you find the perfect spot that matches your style and accessibility needs.

Great question! As your Telluride elopement photographer, I’ll guide you through the permit process. Most popular Telluride elopement spots require permits for ceremonies, even intimate ones. Uncompahgre National Forest locations (including many alpine areas around Telluride) require special use permits for weddings, which typically cost $75-150 and take 2-4 weeks to process. Town of Telluride parks like Telluride Town Park also require permits for ceremonies. However, some private venues and certain backcountry locations don’t require permits. The good news? I work with these permit processes regularly and can help you navigate the requirements, suggest permit-free alternatives, or connect you with locations that handle permitting for you. I always ensure we’re compliant so you can focus on your special day.

Popular dates, especially during peak seasons (summer and fall), often book 6-12 months in advance. However, I occasionally have availability for last-minute elopements, so don’t hesitate to ask!

Mountain elopements offer unparalleled flexibility and intimacy. Whether you want a sunrise ceremony at 13,000 feet or a sunset celebration in a wildflower meadow, we can create an experience that’s authentically you – no need to follow traditional wedding rules!

Telluride sits at 8,750 feet, and many of our most stunning elopement locations reach 10,000-13,000+ feet – this definitely impacts your day! As an experienced Telluride elopement photographer, I recommend arriving 2-3 days early to acclimate, especially if you’re coming from sea level. You might experience shortness of breath, fatigue, or mild headaches initially. Stay extra hydrated (the dry mountain air is deceptive) and avoid alcohol the night before your elopement. I always plan extra time in our timeline for rest breaks and slower movement at high altitudes. The good news? The altitude creates incredibly crisp, clear air that makes for stunning photography – those deep blue skies and sharp mountain details you see in Telluride elopement photos are partly thanks to our elevation! I’ll also suggest lower-altitude backup locations if needed, ensuring your day stays perfect regardless of how you’re feeling.

Absolutely! Each season in the San Juan Mountains offers something magical – from wildflower-filled meadows in summer to golden aspens in fall, dramatic snow-capped peaks in winter, and vibrant new growth in spring. I’ll help you choose the perfect time based on your vision, desired locations, and activities.

The Telluride Elopement Photographer Experience

As your dedicated Telluride elopement photographer, I offer comprehensive packages that go beyond just taking photos. Every Telluride elopement deserves documentation that matches the grandeur of the San Juan Mountains.

What’s Included in Your Telluride Elopement Photography:

  • Pre-elopement location scouting across Telluride’s most photogenic spots

  • Vendor recommendations from trusted Telluride professionals

  • Detailed timeline planning for optimal mountain lighting
  • Full-day coverage of your Telluride mountain elopement
  • Professional editing showcasing Colorado’s dramatic landscapes

Beyond capturing beautiful images, I serve as your local Telluride guide and elopement coordinator. My intimate knowledge of the San Juan Mountains means I know exactly when the alpenglow hits Bridal Veil Falls, which hidden meadows offer the most privacy, and how to navigate Telluride’s unique weather patterns to ensure your day unfolds perfectly.

As your Telluride elopement photographer, I don’t just show up and take photos. I’m invested in creating an experience that reflects your unique story against the backdrop of these majestic peaks. Whether you’re drawn to the Victorian charm of downtown Telluride or the raw beauty of a 13,000-foot summit ceremony, I’ll craft a day that’s authentically yours.

Planning a celebration with more of your people? My wedding photography page covers full mountain weddings, from getting ready to the last dance.

Telluride elopement photographer experience

Tell Me About Your Elopement

Tell me a little about the two of you and what you are picturing, and I will get back to you about your date. Every couple who books receives my 92-page How to Elope guide.

Reach out and let’s start with your date.