Your wedding day deserves a setting as extraordinary as your love story. For couples seeking the perfect blend of elegance, breathtaking scenery, and timeless romance, a luxury destination wedding offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you envision exchanging vows on a sun-drenched beach or under the arches of a historic chateau, these destinations promise an incredible backdrop for your wedding and stunning photographs to match.
Santorini, Greece
Known for its iconic white-washed buildings and endless views of the Aegean Sea, Santorini is a dream destination for luxury weddings. The island’s dramatic cliffs and golden sunsets provide a romantic setting that is both intimate and majestic.
Photography Tip: Capture the vibrant blues and whites of the island during the golden hour for a soft, ethereal look in your photos. Consider including local touches like a floral-draped ceremony arch overlooking the caldera for a unique and picturesque focal point.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is the epitome of Italian luxury, with its charming cliffside villages, lemon groves, and turquoise waters. Locations such as Positano and Ravello offer iconic views and an unmatched romantic atmosphere.
Photography Tip: Use the natural textures and colors of the Amalfi Coast—from pastel-colored buildings to blooming bougainvillea—as the perfect complements to your wedding portraits. Schedule a post-ceremony shoot at a secluded beach or a panoramic terrace for a timeless and intimate vibe.
Provence, France
Provence radiates rustic elegance with its rolling lavender fields, stone farmhouses, and golden sunlight. This region is perfect for couples seeking a luxurious yet understated charm for their wedding.
Photography Tip: Lavender fields in bloom (late June to early August) are a photographer’s dream. Opt for candid shots during a stroll through the fields or romantic portraits under the soft glow of twilight.
Maui, Hawaii
Maui combines tropical paradise with a touch of adventure. From pristine beaches to lush rainforests and dramatic volcanic landscapes, this island offers diverse backdrops for luxury wedding photography.
Photography Tip: Time your ceremony around sunset to make the most of the island’s legendary colors. Include details like native flowers or traditional Hawaiian elements to create a personalized and cultural touch.
Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como’s glamorous villas and crystal-clear waters have long been a favorite for luxury weddings. The serene beauty of this destination creates a fairytale atmosphere perfect for a sophisticated celebration.
Photography Tip: Incorporate the lake’s reflective qualities into your photos for a magical touch. A boat ride with the couple provides unique opportunities for romantic and cinematic shots.
Planning Luxury Destination Wedding Photography
Bringing your wedding vision to life in a faraway locale requires careful planning, especially when it comes to photography. Here are expert tips to ensure your photos are as stunning as the setting:
Scout the Location Collaborate with your photographer to identify the best spots for portraits and key moments. Visiting the location beforehand or reviewing venue photos ensures no detail is overlooked.
Time it Right Light plays a critical role in photography. Schedule your ceremony and photo sessions around optimal lighting conditions, such as the golden hour, for the most flattering results.
Prepare for the Weather Different destinations come with unique climates. Have contingency plans for weather changes, and ensure your photographer is equipped to adapt to varying conditions.
Prioritize Travel Logistics Ensure your photographer has ample time to arrive, scout, and prepare for your wedding day. Destination weddings often require flexibility and clear communication.
Embrace Local Culture Incorporate local traditions, décor, or landscapes into your wedding design. These elements enrich your story and create unique photo opportunities.
Stee Garman’s Portfolio Highlights
As a seasoned luxury wedding photographer, I’ve had the honor of capturing love stories in some of the most breathtaking destinations. From sunlit Tuscan vineyards to the windswept beaches of the Caribbean, my portfolio reflects an eye for detail, emotional connection, and artistic vision.
Each couple’s story is unique, and I’m dedicated to ensuring your photographs reflect your personal style and the magic of your chosen destination. My experience and passion for storytelling allow me to navigate the complexities of destination photography while creating images you’ll cherish forever.
Are you dreaming of saying “I do” in one of these luxurious settings? Let’s make it happen together. Reach out to inquire about my destination wedding packages and start planning a photography experience that matches the beauty of your love story.
Hi, I'm Stee Garman, a Columbia South Carolina photographer and East Coast traveler. Photography has been a love of mine for as long as I can remember. In high school, I went through hundreds of disposable cameras. When I studied abroad in Italy, I bought my first DSLR. Once I got home, I started taking photos of families I knew - just for fun.
Those casual photos quickly turned into part-time work - as families referred me and my business began its growth. A few months later, an old college friend asked me to photograph her wedding. I was hesitant, but I agreed. From that point forward, I knew that’s where I wanted to be: in the celebration right alongside my couples. I've found my true calling in being there for couples on one of the biggest days of their lives. It's an honor I never take for granted, and one that fills me with joy - every single time.
Start Your Journey
Fine-art, light & airy wedding photographer based in Columbia, South Carolina