As a documentary elopement photographer, my focus is on capturing the raw, unfiltered emotions that define your love story. An elopement is more than a wedding day—it’s an intentional, deeply personal experience, shaped by who you are and how you choose to commit to one another. My role is to document your elopement with honesty, care, and a quiet, editorial sensibility that allows real moments to unfold naturally.

I approach every elopement as a unique story, not a staged photo session. Whether you’re exchanging vows at an intimate Vermont venue, on a mountain peak, beside a river, or tucked into the quiet of a forest, I take the time to understand your relationship, your journey, and what matters most to you. The result is imagery that goes beyond beautiful photographs—images that preserve the feeling, connection, and meaning of your elopement in a way that feels timeless and true.

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elopement photography collections from $750. 

Emotional Connection: I specialize in capturing those authentic, candid moments that reflect the true depth of your connection. The soft glance you share when you say “I do,” the laughter as you walk hand in hand, and the quiet moments of joy — these are the moments I focus on, so you can remember how you truly felt on your special day.

The Adventure: Many of my couples choose to elope because they want an experience that’s just as adventurous as their love. Whether it’s a remote destination or a spontaneous getaway, I’m always ready to document your adventure, no matter how rugged or unexpected. I love finding beautiful and unique locations where we can create stunning, one-of-a-kind photos.

Details Matter: The beauty of an elopement is often found in the little things — the texture of your dress, the warmth of the sunset light, or the soft breeze on your skin. I pay attention to the small, meaningful details that bring your day to life, ensuring every element is beautifully captured.

A Thoughtful, Non-Intrusive Approach

While I love being present and engaged when the moment calls for it, I also know when it’s important to step back and give you space. Elopements are intimate by nature, and some moments are best experienced privately. I gently guide when needed—helping with light, timing, or subtle direction—but I’m equally comfortable fading into the background so you can be fully with one another. This balance allows your connection to unfold naturally, resulting in photographs that feel honest, unforced, and deeply personal.

Here are a few favorites from Jessica and Max's 90 minute elopement session in Woodstock, Vermont.

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Jessica and Max documentary elopement in Woodstock, VT

There’s something truly magical about elopements. They are deeply personal, often filled with a sense of freedom, intimacy, and authenticity. The small, quiet moments become the most important. For me, the joy comes from knowing that I’m helping you preserve memories that will last a lifetime. Your elopement photos will become a cherished part of your story, reminding you of the love and joy you felt on your day.

If you’re planning your elopement and want a photographer who will truly understand your vision, let’s connect. Together, we’ll create something beautiful that reflects who you are as a couple, and I’ll be there to capture every precious moment along the way.

Our complete Vermont elopement collection: Small weddings and elopements in beautiful Vermont, Upstate New York and New Hampshire are becoming more and more popular and we are offering a complete stress free package including Sally Carpenter Photography, professional officiant and flowers from $1200 to the sky's the limit! This includes one hour of professional photography including a romance photo session and full ceremony coverage with Sally, officiant consultation before the wedding day and a beautiful bridal bouquet and small wedding cake; champagne, catering, hair and make-up and music also available.

Professional photography elopement collections from $750.

So, what are some of the perks of eloping? Personally, I think cost is only a tiny part of the equation and the benefits of elopements and small family weddings are endless!  You have more freedom to do what you want, where you want, without the pressures and expectations that usually come with all things “wedding.” Your wedding day is "your" wedding day and instead of being a host or hostess to a multitude of guests, you are there for each other and a small circle of friends and family.

An elopement can also be a celebration for just the two of you to share, a “just us” experience and a beautiful option for couples who don’t feel like even a small wedding is the right fit for them. It creates a magical, intimate way for couples to make their wildest, most romantic dreams about their wedding day come true and to celebrate their love for each other in a totally natural and uninhibited way.

Obviously the romantic locations for your elopement abound. Say "I do" in a formal garden or cozy village inn, five-star hotel balconies, historic churches, the middle of the woods or the top of a mountain. Since your costs are already low, you have the freedom to get married wherever and whenever your heart desires.

Our Vermont elopement venues are some of the most romantic and picturesque on earth, in fact, our local Twin Farms was just voted the best hotel in the world by Boston Globe. 

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