Elopement Photography
Mountain, lake, and desert elopements Mammoth Lakes, Yosemite, Lone Pine, Death Valley, Bishop, Gardnerville, Lake Tahoe, and beyond!
Do you dream of a simple, meaningful day that feels entirely your own? It's one without pressure or expectation—just the two of you, fully present and connected in a place that feels right. Maybe it’s exchanging vows on a mountain ridge, beside a quiet alpine lake, or in the open desert with nothing but time and space.
Elopements are about choosing experience, intimacy, and even an adventure to remember. You have the freedom to just be together without distraction or structure. At their core, elopements are intimate and flexible, centered on presence, connection, and a day that reflects exactly who you are together.
Just like you aren't just any other person, I am not just any other photographer. Let's start planning your dream elopement and make your vision a reality.
Megan Guffey is an elopement photographer based in Mammoth Lakes, CA and Gardnerville, NV.
She photographs intimate ceremonies across the Eastern Sierra, Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, Hope Valley, the Carson Valley, and beyond to worldwide destinations.
Her most popular elopement package starts at $2,850 for a minimum of 4 hours of photography coverage and provides location and timeline guidance as well as a full online gallery.
Planning a larger celebration? See Wedding Photography pricing and packages.
This is for you if...
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You love the outdoors, be it a short walk to a viewpoint, a day of skiing, an evening paddle board session, or a sunrise hike.
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You want a day that is about the two of you and just the guest list.
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You want someone who can stay calm, knows the area, and plans for the weather.
What's your dream?
Included in every elopement
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4, 6, 8, or custom hours of guided photography coverage
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Location suggestions to match your vision and ability level & a custom timeline built around the best light and fewest crowds
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Help with permits and what to expect in your selected location and activity
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Backup plans for snow, wind, smoke, and closures
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A password protected online gallery with your carefully curated and edited high resolution images along with print rights
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Delivery times include a 48 sneak peek and 4-8 weeks for the full gallery
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Free planning calls and unlimited planning questions before the day
Packages
The Full Experience
$4850
For the couples who want their entire day, start to finish, documented...for those who want the story and experience of their day of celebration.
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8+ hours experience
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400+ edited high-resolution images
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Sneak Peek within 48 hrs.
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Full day Documentation & Story Telling to include everything from Getting Ready to the ceremony to the sunset
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In Depth Planning & Consultation
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Location Scout & Logistical Guidance
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Backup Plans (weather/crowds)
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Timeline Design & Flexibility for the day
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Password Protected Online Digital Gallery
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Print Rights
The Sierra Elopement
(Most Popular)
$2850
This is a great experience for those who want a relaxed, meaningful experience with beautiful scenery.
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4 hours experience
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150+ edited high-resolution images
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Sneak Peek within 48 hrs.
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Personal Location Scout
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Custom Timeline Planning
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Permit & Logistical Guidance
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Password Protected Online Digital Gallery
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Print Rights
The Adventure Elopement
$3850
This is the perfect choice for the couple who wants a more immersive experience in the mountains.
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6 hours experience
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250+ edited high-resolution images
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Sneak Peek within 48 hrs.
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Full Planning & Support
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Multiple Locations & Scenic Travel
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Backup Plans (weather/crowds)
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Timeline & Lighting Guidance
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Password Protected Online Digital Gallery
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Print Rights
Add Ons
You can add any of the following to the above packages if it is not already included.
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Astro/Milky Way Portraits after sunset
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Engagement or Proposal Session
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1-2 min. Sideshow (Stills only) ($200)
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3-5 min. Highlight Video (Clips with no audio) $1000
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2nd day or sunrise session
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Additional Hours $250/ hour
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Rush Delivery $150
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Travel for remote locations (custom quote)
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Print Packages (prices vary depending on selection)
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20 page 10x10 Album ($350 each)
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20 page 8x8 Album ($250 each)
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Additional Photographer ($500)
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Images duplicated in Black & White ($100)
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Rehearsal Dinner Coverage ($200/hour)
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Travel/ Lodging (varies by location)
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Permits (varies by location)
For states outside of California and Nevada, add $1000.
For international destinations, add $4000.
A Sample Day
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6:30-8am - Meet at Minaret Vista for sunrise portraits, breakfast and coffee (sunrise at 6:45am)
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Drive to Ceremony Site at Twin Lakes
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9:00am - Lakeside Ceremony next to Twin Lakes & Portraits
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9:45am-Hike to Duck Pass to Duck Lake, have lunch, and enjoy.
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2pm-Hike back to cars
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Drive to the Owen's River for evening fishing & picnic dinner as the evening light on the Sherwin Mountains prepares for sunset.
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6:57pm - Sunset
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8:30pm - After dark astro photography portrait session
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10:00pm - Say good night and goodbye
How it works
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STEP 1: Inquire -Fill out the inquiry form with your rough ideas and vision as well as your date.
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STEP 2: Phone Conversation - We will discuss locations and logistics for a general plan.
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STEP 3: Book - To be considered "booked", you must sign the contract and pay the non-refundable retainer.
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STEP 4: Planning - We will work together to create a timeline of activities that suits your vision as well as any required permits, logistics, details, and contingency and back up plans for weather and unanticipated events.
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STEP 5: Your Day - Celebrate and enjoy while I guide you through your day. I will document your days as it unfolds, photograph portraits, and allow some peace and space as you take in this special moment with your loved one.
FAQ
How much does an elopement photographer cost in Mammoth Lakes?
Megan Guffey's most popular elopement package starts at $2,850 and includes 4 hours of photography coverage, location and timeline guidance, and a full online gallery. Add-ons like astro portraits, engagements, and video coverage are priced separately.
What's the best time of year to elope in the Eastern Sierra?
To be honest, it really depends on what your vision is. If you love everything about a white winter wonderland and skiing, then winter. If you were summer wildflowers and alpine lakes, you are looking closer to late June through July. Fall colors are glorious across the Eastern Sierras in the mid-October. Peak dates do tend to book early, so inquire as soon as you have a rough date.
Do we need a permit to elope in Yosemite?
In general, yes, you need a special-use permit. You can find the regulations and permit information here on the Yosemite National Park Site. Having a permit does not give exclusive or reserved use of the space.
What happens if it snows, rains, or there is smoke? - Although I do think weather can create epic photos with mysterious and captivating light, I do build a backup plan into every timeline. It includes alternate locations and flexible timing. Should there be a need to change and alter logistics, I will discuss this with the client to make sure we are all on board with the change.
How many people can come to an elopement? Traditionally, and elopement is just the two of you. Some include a handful of guests.
Can you photograph us if we want a short hike?
Yes, let's do that. I love to adventure and explore. I understand that everyone has different comfort and ability levels, so I try to match the location, hike, pace, etc. accordingly. If we want to stick to roadside views or a full day hike into the backcountry or even a multi-day backpack trip, we can arrange that. It is important to have appropriate gear, experience, and fitness level. The last thing I want is someone in over their head or getting injured.
Do you help with the ceremony?
I am not an officiant, but I can definitely help with timeline guidance, brainstorm ceremony ideas, recommend vendors, and so on. I primarily do photography; however, I can add on some video clips for you.
How far in advance should we book?
Summer and fall dates book fast, so I would recommend a 4-6 + prior. Winter and weekdays are often more flexible. With that being said, if your timeline is much shorter, please don't hesitate to inquire as I may have an opening.
How do we book?
Fill out this inquiry form. I will get back to you within 48 hours to set up a free consultation and planning call. I look forward to meeting you!
I don't know all of the activities that we could do for an elopement. Can you help us with ideas?
Absolutely. There are so many options and opportunities. Some may take little logistics and extra planning like boardgames and coffee, while some may require working with professional companies for things like whitewater rafting, horse packing, helicopter rides, or hot air ballooning. The list of activities is long, and there is plenty to do for any type of person.
"We truly appreciated your expertise, guidance, and the ease you brought to the entire experience -- you made it so enjoyable."
~Dolores (2025)
Family Portraits & Stroll Cover Article
Reno, NV
"You won’t just get great photos, you’ll get an unforgettable experience."
~Franda (2025)
Family & Couple Portraits
Gardnerville, NV
"You got to capture some really interesting people doing unique activities in stunning places!"
~Mindy
Observer
Portland, OR