May 30, 2025
Capturing Love, Leaving Only Footprints: The Art of "Leave No Trace" Wedding Photography
By Mercedes Santana
Hello, beautiful souls and soon-to-be newlyweds!
As a wedding photographer, I get to capture some of the most magical moments of your lives. From the gentle kiss of a breeze during your outdoor ceremony to the sun setting on you share your first dance (unless its mid-summer here in Alaska, then it doesn’t really set…), nature often plays the star role in these perfect little moments. But as much as we love these natural settings, it's crucial to remember that we are guests in these wild and wonderful places. That's why today, I’m excited to share how I embrace the "Leave No Trace" principles in my wedding photography.
What Does "Leave No Trace" Mean?
Simply put, "Leave No Trace" is a set of outdoor ethics, (actually started as a national educational program in the US) that promotes conservation of the great outdoors. As photographers, especially in breathtaking locations like mountains, beaches, forests and glaciers, it’s our responsibility to ensure that these places remain pristine for future generations of lovebirds (and photographers) to enjoy.
Planning and Preparation: The Blueprint for Beauty
Before we dive into your big day, there's a bit of homework involved. Planning is everything, not just for you, but for me too! I’ll research the location, check the weather, and familiarize myself with any local regulations. Some places might have restrictions to protect wildlife or fragile ecosystems and it's essential to respect these rules.
For you, this means a smoother, stress-free experience that we can all feel good about.
Treading Lightly: Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
Imagine walking down a lush, green aisle of forest floor. Beautiful, right? But to keep it that way, we must be mindful of where we step. I stick to established paths and durable surfaces to prevent trampling delicate vegetation. We wouldn’t want your grand entrance to leave a lasting impression on the environment… literally!
For those dreamy shots off the beaten path, we’ll plan them carefully to ensure minimal impact. After all, your love story deserves a stage as beautiful tomorrow as it is today.
Pack It In, Pack It Out: Dispose of Waste Properly
Confetti, flower petals, and the remnants of a joyful celebration: it all makes for stunning photos, but it’s crucial to clean up afterward. I make it a point to ensure that ALL trash, props, and equipment leave with us. This way, we can keep nature as pristine as we found it.
Leaving Nature’s Art Untouched
Nature is the best decorator. We’ve got wildflowers on the sides of the roads, waterfalls in the forests, glaciers just chillin’ (no pun intended) and there’s NO need to rearrange a thing. In our sessions, I focus on capturing the beauty as it is. This means no picking plants or moving rocks for the perfect shot. Trust me; nature’s beauty is its own flawless filter. Why mess with perfection?
Respecting Wildlife: Our Furry and Feathered Friends
During outdoor weddings, we often share the space with local wildlife. While it might be tempting to get that perfect shot of a deer grazing nearby or a bird singing in the trees, it's important to admire from a distance. My telephoto lens ensures we capture the moment without disturbing our animal friends. Remember, they didn’t RSVP, so let’s not give them a reason to crash the party!
Creating Intimate Moments: Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Nature IS for everyone. If we're in a public park or popular trail, chances are we’ll be sharing the space with hikers, picnickers, or other wedding parties. I strive to be courteous and considerate, ensuring our presence doesn’t infringe on others’ enjoyment. After all, nobody likes a photo-bomber—unless it’s a cute squirrel, in which case, I will definitely snap away!
Natural Light, Natural Love
One of my favorite aspects of outdoor wedding photography is the opportunity to use natural light. The golden hour glow, the soft morning light, these are the moments that create magic. I avoid artificial lights at all costs that could disrupt the environment or wildlife. Plus, natural light just looks better on you!
Sharing the Love: Educate and Advocate
One of the best parts of my job is sharing these principles with others. And chances are, if you chose me as your photographer for an outdoor wedding or elopement, you are as passionate about nature as I am! When you choose me as your photographer, you’re not just getting someone who’ll capture your day beautifully; you’re partnering with someone committed to preserving the beauty of our world.
I encourage you to spread the word! Tell your friends, family, and other vendors about the importance of leaving no trace. Together, we can ensure that the landscapes that serve as backdrops for our happiest moments remain untouched and thriving.
A Future of Love and Sustainability
As we embrace these principles, we’re not just preserving nature. We're creating a legacy of love and sustainability. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that your wedding didn’t just celebrate your love but also honored the Earth that hosted it.
So, here's to a wedding day or elopement filled with love, laughter, and light, and a future where we all leave ONLY footprints and take ONLY memories. Thank you for being part of this journey and for caring for the world as much as you care for each other. If you have any questions or want to learn more about how we can make your wedding day as eco-friendly as it is unforgettable, feel free to reach out. I can’t wait to capture your love story in a way that’s kind to the planet.
Click here to learn more about the Seven Leave No Trace Principles from the National Park Service!
