Destination Weddings: Planning Your Photography

Thinking of saying “I do” in a dream location? Learn how to coordinate with your photographer for seamless coverage, no matter where your wedding takes place.

There’s something undeniably magical about destination weddings. Whether you’re exchanging vows on a golden beach in the Coromandel, beneath a waterfall in Fiordland, or in a quaint vineyard in Martinborough, the setting becomes a character in your love story. As a Wellington-based photographer who’s had the privilege of capturing weddings across Aotearoa and beyond, I know firsthand the joys—and the logistics—of photographing destination weddings.

If you’re planning to tie the knot somewhere special, here’s how we can work together to ensure your photography is as seamless and stunning as your surroundings.

Why Destination Wedding Photography Needs a Bit More Planning

A destination wedding adds layers of beauty and adventure to your celebration, but it also brings a few unique challenges. Travel, lighting conditions, permits, and unfamiliar venues all come into play. That’s why it’s so important to collaborate closely with your photographer from the outset. My role isn’t just to snap photos—it’s to help you feel comfortable, confident, and present while I tell your story through my lens.

From sunrise ceremonies to sunset portraits, I’ve learned that preparation is key. Here’s what we’ll consider together to make sure your big day is beautifully documented.

1. Choose a Photographer You Connect With—And Who Can Travel

First things first: hire someone you genuinely feel comfortable around. You’ll be spending a lot of time with your photographer on the day, and that relationship can make or break your experience. I always aim to create a relaxed, friendly atmosphere—whether we’re hiking up a hill for that perfect shot or capturing the quiet moments before the ceremony.

As a New Zealand wedding photographer, I’m happy to travel throughout the country (and internationally), and I’m well-versed in working with changing landscapes and natural light. When you choose someone local who’s open to travel, you get the best of both worlds: familiarity with Kiwi culture and flexibility for your dream destination.

2. Scout the Location—Virtually or On-Site

If we haven’t been to your wedding location before, I’ll do everything I can to research it ahead of time. That might mean a virtual walk-through with you via video call, studying Google Maps, or arriving early to do an in-person scout.

Things I’ll be looking for include:

• The direction of natural light during different parts of the day
• Unique backdrops for portraits (think cliffs, forests, or local architecture)
• Sheltered spots in case the weather turns
• Cultural or environmental considerations (especially in national parks or marae)

Knowing the lay of the land helps me plan for everything from lens choices to timeline optimisation.

3. Build a Realistic Timeline Together

Timing is everything, especially with natural light photography. One of the first things I’ll help you do is build a photo-friendly timeline for your wedding day. This includes factoring in:

• Golden hour for dreamy couples’ portraits
• Travel time between venues or scenic locations
• Buffer time for unexpected delays (because let’s be honest, there’s always something!)
• When to gather family for group shots without cutting into cocktail hour

A well-planned timeline helps us stay relaxed and focused, so you can enjoy each moment while I work behind the scenes capturing it all.

4. Pack Smart—And Trust Me to Do the Same

Destination weddings often mean packing light. While you’re organising your wedding attire, rings, and passports, I’m making sure my camera gear is flight-ready and weather-proof.

I always travel with backup cameras, multiple lenses, memory cards, and lighting gear just in case we need it. If we’re heading somewhere remote in New Zealand—say, a mountaintop in the Southern Alps—I’ll also plan for battery life and connectivity issues.

And if you’re wondering whether a drone shot over Lake Wānaka or Castlepoint Beach is possible, just ask! I’m CASA-certified for drone photography, and I’ll handle the logistics and flight permissions where needed.

5. Consider a Pre-Wedding or Day-After Session

One of the best things about destination weddings? You’re in a stunning location—so why limit your photos to just the wedding day?

I often recommend a relaxed pre-wedding shoot or a day-after session. These are perfect for:

• Capturing candid, stress-free moments without the time pressure of the big day
• Exploring locations you couldn’t fit into the wedding timeline
• Creating a complete visual story of your wedding adventure

Whether we’re wandering through a vineyard at dusk or taking a sunrise stroll along the beach, these sessions give you even more memories to treasure.

Let’s Tell Your Destination Love Story Together

Every couple’s journey is unique, and destination weddings offer an incredible way to start your new chapter with adventure, beauty, and heart. As your photographer, my job is to make sure the emotions, the laughs, the quiet glances, and the epic scenery are all captured with care and creativity.

If you’re planning a wedding in New Zealand or beyond and want someone who’s as excited about your location as you are, I’d love to chat. Capturing those fleeting moments is what I love to do. Let’s make your wedding photography experience as unforgettable as the day itself.