Frequently asked questions

Where are you based out of?
I am based out of Cochrane, Alberta, Canada (but I'm originally from Belgium)

Do you only document weddings and elopements?
My primary focus is intimate weddings and adventure elopements. However, I also love photographing engagement and adventure sessions. Feel free to send me an email and we'll find a time that fits for us both.

What if we don’t know yet how much photo coverage we need?
This is very common! During my free elopement consultation call we can talk about what’s possible and figure out the right package for you. And you can also always add more time during the planning process.

We’re very awkward in front of a camera, will you help us with this? 
Most of my couples actually end up mentioning this, and I get it! I’m feel the same when I have my photo taken. But don’t worry, this is why I focus on natural movement and candid moments. I will help you by giving some direction and giving you prompts, but as long as you two interact with each other like you normall would, we’ll get some amazing results! We’ll keep it super relaxed and fun!

How many photos will we receive from our elopement day?
This very much depends on what activities you’re doing on your day and how many guests you have, but typically you can expect to receive about 50-75 photos per hour of coverage. You will receive all of the very best photos of your day!

How will we receive our photos?
You will receive the full resolution, digital images with unlimited downloads, sharing, & personal printing rights. You’ll receive them in an online gallery so you can share them with family and friends world-wide.

How do we book with you?
Go to the contact page and get in touch! I like to hop on a phone call with my elopement clients, so we can get to know each other and make sure we’re a good fit! To reserve your date, you’ll need to sign my contract and pay a non-refundable retainer fee. Then I’ll officially be your elopement photographer and I can help you create your adventure of a lifetime!
You can also send me an email directly at celestineaerden@gmail.com.

How soon should we book a date with you?
I’d recommend as soon as possible! The only thing needed to book is a date and a general area, we can talk more about specifics once your date is booked!
My calendar can fill up quickly, but I’ve also booked some elopements only a few weeks out, so don’t hesitate to get in touch in if you’d like to elope soon!

Can you help us find our dream location?
Yes! I love finding unique locations that are exactly what you’re looking for! After I receive your responses to my questionnaire, I’ll put together a custom location idea list with spots that I think you will really love. Then it’s up to you to pick your top one(s)!

Can we bring our closest friends and family to our elopement? 
Yes! If you envision yourself being surrounded by 20 of your favourite people on your dream day, then yes of course! Your elopement day can include whoever you want it to.

What happens if the weather is bad?
I love embracing any kind of weather! Some of my favourite photos have been taken during snow/rain storms. “Bad weather” honestly often makes for amazing photos. And an incredible adventure!
If the forecast happens to be really bad (think lightning storm) before your hiking elopement, we will find another option!
While the weather can be unpredictable in the Rocky Mountains, it also passes quickly!

How long of a hike should we do on our wedding day?
That’s entirely up to you!
You don’t have to hike if that’s not something you enjoy. There are locations that are very close to parking lots, and other spots that require some hiking (or two days of hiking if you’d like!)
It all depends on what you envision your day to look like and what seems to be most true to YOU and what you enjoy doing as a couple!

How do we hike in wedding attire?
You don’t have to hike in your wedding clothing if that doesn’t seem comfortable to you or if the hike is too long. For shorter hikes, you can for sure hike in your dress and let it get nice and dirty! (Which looks amazing in photos honestly), or for longer hikes you can hike the last part of the hike in it. Or just hike back down in your dress.
Or, you can carry your attire in your backpack and you change when we reach our destination. There are so many ways to go about this, and we can do whatever your preference is!

What is your turn around time?
You will receive a sneak peek of your photos within a week of your elopement, so you have something to share with friends and family.
You can expect to receive your full gallery ten weeks after your elopement. This largely depends on the time of year, since May-October is usually my busiest season (and I’m also a mom to 3 little ones who are with me full time)

Are we able to add on a session or extras after booking?
Of course!
Engagement/adventure sessions are such a great way to get to know each other before your big day. It’s a very good way to get comfortable in front of the camera as well.
During an adventure engagement session, we would also be able to get to some incredible locations that you might not have time for on your wedding day. If hiking on your wedding day isn’t something you’re interested in, consider doing this as an adventure session instead!
You can also add on extra hours or a second shooter at any time after booking your elopement.

Do you offer albums and printed photos?
Yes! You can order high quality, professional albums and prints through your online gallery, and so can your family and friends!
You are even able to design your own albums, so they’ll be completely to your liking.

Can't wait to hear from you!