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photography and planning for intentional elopements.

Creating a relaxed, meaningful wedding day, one that feels like a dream from start to finish.

based in northern california serving lake tahoe

Lake Tahoe Elopement Photographer for Relaxed, Intentional Wedding Days

I’m Kristin, a Lake Tahoe elopement photographer who helps couples plan stress-free, unforgettable days.

Lake Tahoe & Yosemite elopement photography with personalized planning support.

Lake Tahoe Elopement Photographer for Relaxed, Intentional Wedding Days

Creating a relaxed, meaningful wedding day, one that feels like a dream from start to finish.

based in northern california serving lake tahoe

as seen on

As a Lake Tahoe elopement photographer, I guide couples through the entire process so their day feels exactly like this... relaxed, present, and fully their own.

Calm. Present.
Unreal in the best way.


When nature shows up and it’s just the two of you thinking,
“I can’t believe this is ours.”

“This entire day has felt like dream."

One of my couples kept saying this on their elopement day and I smiled because:

“That’s exactly how your wedding day should feel.”

That's the feeling.

We can’t wait to come back and do it again!
Thank you SO MUCH for everything! 10000/10 experience!!!"

- tony and lauren eloped in lake tahoe

"Love love love !!!!!
Seriously the best time ever! 

We can’t wait to come back and do it again! Thank you SO MUCH for everything! 10000/10 experience!!!"

For couples planning a Lake Tahoe elopement who want epic views and a wedding day that feels calm, present… and a little unreal.

You and your love in a breathtaking location in Lake Tahoe, exchanging vows with the perfect backdrop of mountains, forests, or lakes,  and feeling completely in sync with nature and each other.

An elopement experience that is adventurous, meaningful, and stress-free, allowing you to focus solely on each other and the journey you're embarking on together.

Just Imagine...

Meaningful & Authentic

That's how your wedding day should be.

Your Lake Tahoe intimate wedding and elopement photographer, the one who helps you plan your day, keeps things running smoothly, fixes your dress, and probably tears up behind the camera.

Your elopement should feel fun, real, and like you actually get to be in it, not stuck worrying about what’s next.

I want to know what lights you two up and what makes your connection yours, so we can create a day that feels like it was made just for you.

Some of my favorite Lake Tahoe spots include Sand Harbor, Logan Shoals Vista Point, and Emerald Bay.

Hey, I'm Kristin!

"We really wanted someone that was going to make our pictures fun while taking them and that’s exactly what we got."
- Hailie & Justin

meet your lake tahoe elopement photographer

Epic Photography
Real emotion and those in-between moments you didn’t even realize were happening.

Full Planning & Design
Your entire day is thoughtfully planned so everything flows naturally from getting ready to sunset.

Faux Florals That Are Photo-Ready
Bouquets and boutonnières designed to match your colors and location.

Cake + Champagne Toast
Celebrate your “just married” moment with a styled cake cutting and champagne or non-alcoholic toast.

Timeline Creation & Day-of Guidance
Every moment is intentional, but nothing feels rushed.

Permit Help + Vendor Recommendations
I guide you through permits and connect you with trusted vendors so everything feels easy.

I'm not just your photographer.

I’m your guide, planner, & your calm in the chaos.

Epic photos are just the beginning.

You also get real support, intentional planning, and a day that actually feels relaxed.

Real Moments.
Epic Views.
Elopements, Made Easy.

based in
northern california serving lake tahoe.

Epic Photography & Planning Support

Planning & design is included.

No need to hire a separate planner for your intimate wedding day.

Faux florals, Mini Cake, & Toast
are always included.

Eloping isn’t about running away,
it’s about choosing a wedding experience that feels 100% like you.

  • No pressure to host a party.
  • No traditions you don’t connect with.
  • No timeline that rushes the day away.

Just you, your person, and a setting that feels unforgettable.



A More Intentional Way to Get Married in Lake Tahoe

That’s the kind of Lake Tahoe elopement I help couples create.

"Kristin we cannot thank you enough! It was truly just the most perfect day, thank you for all your hard work making everything come together. You made it so EASY and the ability to feel relaxed and just be able to enjoy every second of our wedding day is such a gift. We are so happy, thank you so much!"

"The ability to feel relaxed & just be able to enjoy every second of our wedding day is such a gift."

- cody & jaime eloped in lake tahoe

What’s the Difference?

A lot of couples searching for a “Lake Tahoe wedding” or an intimate wedding in Lake Tahoe are really wanting something smaller and more relaxed.

That’s where elopements come in.

Instead of a venue and a packed timeline, it’s about the experience, saying your vows somewhere beautiful and actually enjoying the day.

Whether you call it a wedding or an elopement, Tahoe gives you the freedom to do it your way.

Lake Tahoe Wedding vs Elopement: 

Lake Tahoe offers something rare, mountains, crystal-clear water, and dramatic cliffs all in one place.

You can say your vows at sunrise over the lake, hike to a scenic overlook, or keep it simple with your toes in the sand.

From Sand Harbor to Emerald Bay and quiet forest trails, there’s no shortage of unforgettable backdrops.

With California and Nevada locations surrounding the lake, Lake Tahoe is one of the most versatile elopement destinations in the country.

If you’re looking for intentional elopement photography beyond just one location, learn more about the full elopement photography experience here.





Why Elope in Lake Tahoe?

And when you work with a local Lake Tahoe elopement photographer, you’ll know exactly where to go for the best light, privacy, and views.

What a Real Lake Tahoe Elopement Can Look Like

Every elopement and intimate wedding day is different.
Here are real Lake Tahoe weddings to show you what’s possible in every season.

Winter Elopement at Logan Shoals & Donner Summit

Summer Elopement at Sand Harbor

Adventure Elopement at Donner Summit & Emerald Bay

WITHOUT THE STRESS!

Eloping in Lake Tahoe should feel exciting, not overwhelming. I help couples every step of the way, from choosing your dream location to making sure permits, timelines, and every detail are handled with care. You’ll get expert guidance, personalized planning, and a laid-back day that actually feels like you. Once you book, you’ll get my exclusive planning guide to walk you through every step with ease.

How to Elope in Lake Tahoe

Emerald Bay Elopement

Emerald Bay offers dramatic cliffs, panoramic lake views, and one of the most recognizable backdrops in Tahoe. It’s perfect for couples who want elevated views, golden light, and a more adventurous ceremony setting.

Explore Emerald Bay Elopement Details

Sand Harbor is one of the most iconic places for a Lake Tahoe elopement, with turquoise water, granite boulders, and unreal sunset light. It’s ideal for couples who want lake views with easy access and a relaxed beach-meets-mountain feel.

View the Sand Harbor Elopement Guide

Sand Harbor Elopement

Popular Lake Tahoe Elopement & Intimate Wedding Locations

My Lake Tahoe elopement packages are designed for couples who want a fully guided, stress-free experience in the mountains and along the lake.

  • Photography coverage tailored to your day
  • Full planning support and permit guidance
  • Custom faux florals
  • Cake and toast picnic
  • Location strategy for the best light and privacy





Lake Tahoe Elopement Packages

Adventure doesn’t always mean ‘crazy long hikes’ or jumping out of airplanes, it’s about what feels right for you.

Create a wedding day that is uniquely you!

Lake Tahoe Elopement Packages & Pricing

Elopement photography is included.  With my guided prompts and easy posing for couples, you'll get those "I can't believe that's us" breathtaking images that just feel like the movies. 












Your entire day will be customized for you... just show up! Let's be real, elopement planning can be stressful for some couples, but with my custom elopement planning  I take that stress away for you.

Your day can be an epic journey (or not!), like hiking or snowboarding. Or keep your day "low-key" and visit locations that are easily accessible without a long hike!

Your Lake Tahoe Elopement,
Your Way

Easy, Personalized Elopement Planning

Go Big or "Keep it simple"

Jaw-Dropping Photos You Can Feel

  • Hike to a scenic spot
  • Helicopter ride for two
  • Kayak or paddleboard on the lake
  • Explore waterfalls
  • Horseback riding
  • Snowboarding, skiiing, or snowshoeing in winter
  • Jump in the lake for a post-ceremony dip
  • Brewery, winery, or coffee shop stops 
  • Share a picnic, cake cutting, or pop champagne (Included!)
  • Easy walk to an epic overlook
  • Watch sunrise or sunset
  • Bring your pup along
  • Dance on the beach

Lake Tahoe Elopement Ideas & Activities

Adventurous Ideas

"keep it simple" ideas

Sounds more chill, more you, doesn't it!?

Expertly crafted elopement planning and photography in Lake Tahoe.

Let’s make your elopement day a beautiful reflection of your love story.

"It feels like you get a friend when you work with Kristin."

"Absolute best of the best. No need to look any further for the perfect photographer. She is super easy going, easy to work with, and her photos are beautiful. Honestly, it just feels like you get a friend when you hire Kristin. She helped us feel comfortable for our photos and helped coordinate our day- always going above and beyond. Well worth the investment!"

Ready for your own epic elopement day?

Big adventure or laid-back moments,
your story, beautifully told.

Let’s skip tradition and focus on what truly matters...
your love, your adventure,
your day.

ARE YOU READY?

lake tahoe elopement photographer

Let's Start Planning Your Elopement!

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Kristin Smith is an elopement and intimate wedding photographer serving California