Farida & Clément
Whispers of love and life: celebrating a Calaveras elopement
Itinerary of their Calaveras elopement
Due to Leave No Trace policy, the exact location names have to stay undisclosed
6:00 AM – 8:45 AM: Start to get ready!
7:00 AM: I join the couple for ambiance photos + preparations
8:45 AM – 9:00 AM: First look
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Ceremony
9:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Couple photos (with smoke bombs)
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Break
2:00 PM – 2:15 PM: Drive to a magical overlook
2:15 PM – 3:00 PM: Photos at the overlook
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Drive to a serene lake (for the last rays of sun)
4:00 PM – 5:15 PM: Couple photos at sunset + blue hour
5:15 PM – 6:15 PM: Drive to traditional saloon restaurant
6:15 PM – 7:30 PM: American dinner at the saloon
What they have to say about their adventure
An emotional sequence with our daughter who cried throughout the photos, saying ‘I’m so moved.’ Thank you for the photos. It was wonderful to be able to experience so many emotions almost one month later when revisiting them…Our daughter cried so much!
Reflections on the day
When I look at the pictures of this family getaway near Calaveras in California, I am immediately transported into a world of gentleness and intimacy. The simplicity of the love between the couple and their daughter is palpable through each snapshot, every exchanged smile, and every tender look.
It’s a moment of great beauty, filled with pure and authentic emotions. The announcement of the second pregnancy during the ceremony adds an incredible dimension to the whole experience. It’s a moment of life, growth, and shared joy within the family, captured for eternity through my lens.
As a photographer, it’s sometimes easy to get carried away by technique, composition, and light. But it’s in these moments of truth, human connection, and raw emotions that I truly find my way. Capturing these precious moments and turning them into timeless memories is a deeply rewarding experience.
This day of family escapade, among ancient trees and peaceful lakes, reminds me how beautiful and precious life is. It’s in these simple moments of adventure and relaxation that I find my inspiration and motivation to continue telling stories through my lens.
These moments of sharing, laughter, and love are what make life so precious and beautiful. As a photographer, I feel privileged to be able to capture these fleeting moments and turn them into timeless memories. It is a mission I take to heart, for I know these images will be cherished and passed down from generation to generation.
As I reflect on this magical day near Calaveras in California, I am filled with profound gratitude for the opportunity to experience these precious moments with my clients. It’s a life lesson and a love experience that nourishes me and drives me to continue growing as a photographer and as a human being.
Behind the scenes of their Calaveras elopement
A short anecdote: Farida and Clément wanted giant sequoias but the sequoia park was closed, preventing us from planning the ceremony there. So, we found an Airbnb just steps from the Calaveras and had access to a magnificent sequoia right in front of their accommodation!
This elopement won 1 international photography award
Photos of this calaveras elopement
