Joshua Tree Elopement Photographer for couples who hate being photographed
No Posing or Kissing on Command. Just You, Your Person, and Joshua Tree.
Based in Joshua Tree, CA and photographing elopements across the high desert, Palm Springs, and the Coachella Valley.
If the thought of being photographed makes you cringe, you're my people. I'm a Joshua Tree elopement photographer who protects your experience while documenting it— guidance when you need it, space when you don't, and photos that feel like the memory.
You won't be posed to death. But you also won't be left hanging.
Documentary means I'm reading the room, anticipating moments, and staying out of your way—but I'm never checked out. I'll offer guidance when it's helpful—around timing, movement, light—and step back when things feel natural.
If something feels awkward, we slow down. If you need a pause, we take one. If you're not sure what comes next, I help you move through it without forcing moments or making you perform.
We don't stage moments. We set the stage for them to happen organically.
Documentary Doesn't Mean Hands-Off
(or awkward photos where you don't know what to do with your hands)
I'm a professional photographer with 20+ years of experience and 350+ weddings under my belt. I'm also an ordained officiant and a Joshua Tree local. I will never stop fighting for the rights of marginalized people. I believe that Love is Love and Black Lives Matter. Fuck the Patriarchy and Diet Culture.
I see light and composition like a fine artist. I read rooms and anticipate moments like a photojournalist. I understand the ebb and flow of emotions on a wedding day, knowing when to step in and when to disappear. Anyone can learn to make a beautiful image. Not everyone can do it in a way that makes you feel calm, comfortable, and seen.
I'm not here to get my shot at the expense of your experience. I'm here to hold the structure lightly so you can stay present, while I document what's actually happening—honestly, without pushing your day in a different direction.
Hi, I'm Jaimie.
"Jaimie was wonderful to work with. She was knowledgeable of her craft, and her photos are incredible."
- COURTNEY + TIM
What matters isn't how much you do—it's how the day feels while you're doing it.
I help couples think through and intentionally plan an enjoyable day that matches their energy—whether you're planning a couple of focused hours or something more open-ended.
Some days are short and straightforward: a simple ceremony, a few photos, and then you're done. Other days move more slowly, with space to wander, rest, and let things unfold without a strict plan.
A Joshua Tree elopement doesn't have to be a production to be meaningful. It might include getting ready together, a ceremony among the rocks or joshua trees, and a small celebration of some sort. Or it might look completely different—a hike, a picnic with mini-donkeys, a private yoga session + sound bath, dinner with a private chef, drinks and karaoke, stargazing.
There's No One Way to Elope in Joshua Tree (And There Doesn't Need to Be)
- There is no cell service in the park, so download your maps ahead of time
- Drive times can be longer than expected
- Permits are required for ceremonies in the park
- Comfort matters—bring water, plan for accessibility, pace realistically
- How to Get Married in Joshua Tree
- Where to Get Married in Joshua Tree
- Joshua Tree Elopement Guide
- 100+ Page Location & Logistics Guide (sent after booking)
How to Elope in Joshua Tree Without Making it Harder Than it Needs to Be
see the collections
How much coverage makes sense depends on how you want to spend your time. A short ceremony with a few photos looks very different from a slower, more open-ended day—and both are valid.
I won't push you to book more time than you need. Some couples want a fuller arc of the day. Some want a few meaningful hours. The goal is to choose coverage that gives your day room to breathe.
Elopement coverage that matches the way you want to spend your day
This collection allows for a slower pace, transitions between locations, downtime, and space for the unexpected—for breathing room and flexibility throughout the day.
Coverage is 8–12 hours, any day of the week, and can be split to capture different parts of your day.
Starting at $5000
Full day elopement
For intentional elopement days with room to move at a comfortable pace. Coverage is continuous for up to 6 hours, supporting one cohesive arc—getting ready, ceremony, and the space to transition between moments or locations without rushing.
Available any day of the week.
Starting at $3,400
half-day elopement
Coverage for simple, intentional elopements unfolding at a single location. Coverage is focused on the ceremony and the moments immediately surrounding it—continuous for up to 3 hours.
Weekdays (M-Th) $1500. Weekends (Fri-Sun) $1800.
Add a second location for $150.
• Pre-elopement planning call
• Location scouting + permit guidance
• Online gallery with full-resolution digital images
• Personal-use download rights
• Print release
• Full gallery delivered within 6 weeks
Additional portrait sessions or elopement event coverage is available at a discounted rate. Digital Super 8 coverage or 35mm film photography coverage can be added for $350. Officiant Services are available; please inquire.
What's Included:
Experience
- JESS AND CHRISTINA
Jaimie should be at the top of your list! Not only is she extremely talented but she is also very warm and personable. She's creative, responsive, and dependable. Jaimie knows exactly how to get people to feel comfortable in front of a camera. Rather than cueing forced-looking poses, she truly captures the true essence of her clients and how they interact with each other."
"Jaimie knows exactly how to get people comfortable in front of the camera.
- meggie and luke
I love my wedding photos! Every reaction is genuine and real and makes me smile to just remember the moment. She perfectly captured my relationship with my husband. In regards to the actual posed photos, because everyone gets at least a few, she really knew how to get everyone's attention and efficiently get the families together, lined up, and smiling. It was very no nonsense which is exactly what you need when everyone's excited and distracted and in the way. I hate taking photos but this was just so easy and relaxed!"
"I absolutely love Jaimie's style; her photos artfully capture the light and shadow.
their
- Meg and Alex
"Jaimie made us feel confident and comfortable in her presence, capturing candid photos of genuine interactions.”
contact
1. Reach Out Fill out my contact form and tell me about your day. I'll respond within 24-48 hours.
2. Let's Talk We'll hop on a call (or email if that's easier) to talk through your vision, timeline, and any questions you have.
3. Make It Official Once you're ready, I'll send over a contract and invoice. Your date is secured once both are returned.
4. Plan Your Day I'll send you my full location guide, help with timeline planning, vendor recommendations, and anything else you need to feel confident and calm.
Ready to get started? Here's what happens next.
A few things you might be wondering
Yes—I photograph elopements throughout Southern California and beyond. Let's talk about your location.
do you travel outside of joshua tree?
Absolutely. Simple doesn't mean insignificant. If your day matters to you, it's worth documenting.
What if our elopement is simple? Do we still need a photographer?
It varies. Some people book a year out, others a few weeks. If you're eloping on short notice, reach out anyway—I'll let you know if I'm available.
how far in advance do we need to book?
We adapt. I'll help you think through backup plans or timing shifts if needed, but some of the most honest, emotional images happen in unexpected conditions. Bad weather doesn't ruin your day unless you let it.
what if the weather is terrible?
Yes. If having your dog, a friend, or a small group of loved ones makes your day feel more like you, include them. This is about what matters to you—not what an elopement is "supposed" to look like.
can we include or dog? or a few close people?
Yes. I help with timelines, location scouting, vendor recommendations, and anything else that makes your day feel easier.
Can you help us plan our day?
You don't need to be. Your elopement can be as simple as getting ready together, having a quiet ceremony, and grabbing a meal. There's no expectation to hike, climb, or perform adventure for the camera. If your idea of a perfect day is slow and grounded, that's what we'll document.
What if we're not outdoorsy or adventurous?
Most people feel that way—and it doesn't matter. I'm not going to ask you to perform or pose in ways that feel unnatural. My job is to create space for you to be present with each other, not to turn you into models. You don't need to know what to do. You just need to show up.
What if we're awkward in front of the camera?
No. I'll give you guidance when it's helpful, but I won't make you kiss on command or any other awkward shit.
Will you pose us?
Yes—if you're having a ceremony inside the park, you'll need a Special Use Permit. I walk you through the process in my Joshua Tree Elopement Guide.
Do we need a permit to elope in Joshua Tree National Park?
message sent!
I thoughtfully respond to all messages, and will be emailing you soon with more info and a link to my full pricing & experience guide.
in the meantime, you can schedule a phone call -- that would be our next step.
spam filters are my archnemesis. I would never intentionally ghost anyone, so please check your spam box if you're wondering where I am.
If you’re drawn to a documentary-photography approach and want to be fully present as your elopement day unfolds (not posed through it), this is the next step.
Fill out the contact form or schedule a call. Share a little about what you’re planning and what matters most to you. I’ll take it from there.
You don't have to have everything figured out
contact
You can trust that your elopement day will be documented empathetically and energetically for an authentic perspective. Because wedding days are not photoshoots.
