Book your date here!
Your Story, Your Way
Love is the heart of everything I do. To me, it’s about more than just taking photos—it’s about honoring your connection and creating a space where your love can shine in its purest form. I’ll listen to your dreams, dig into what truly matters to you, and help you design an elopement day that feels like home.
No stiff poses, no forced smiles—just the two of you, your story, and the moments that will make your hearts race for years to come. This is about celebrating your love your way, and I’m here to capture it all, exactly as it is.
Love is the heart of everything I do. To me, it’s about more than just taking photos—it’s about honoring your connection and creating a space where your love can shine in its purest form. I’ll listen to your dreams, dig into what truly matters to you, and help you design an elopement day that feels like home.
No stiff poses, no forced smiles—just the two of you, your story, and the moments that will make your hearts race for years to come. This is about celebrating your love your way, and I’m here to capture it all, exactly as it is.
You deserve a day that feels
like you.
Summer 2024 | Jessica & Brandon | North Cascades
Minnesota Elopement Photographer
Capturing your love story exactly as you define it, feel it, and live it
Book your date here!
Your Story, Your Way
Love is the heart of everything I do. To me, it’s about more than just taking photos—it’s about honoring your connection and creating a space where your love can shine in its purest form. I’ll listen to your dreams, dig into what truly matters to you, and help you design an elopement day that feels like home.
No stiff poses, no forced smiles—just the two of you, your story, and the moments that will make your hearts race for years to come. This is about celebrating your love your way, and I’m here to capture it all, exactly as it is.
You deserve a day that feels like you.
Summer 2024 | Jessica & Brandon | North Cascades
Minnesota Elopement Photographer
Capturing your love story exactly as
you define it, feel it, and live it
As a Deaf photographer, I won’t be shouting out poses, giving loud directions, or filling the air with unnecessary chatter. There’s no noise from me—just quiet moments for you to fully take in the sounds around you: the crunch of your boots on the trail, the whisper of the wind, or the steady beat of your hearts.
I’ll blend into the background, almost invisible, while capturing the real, unscripted moments that make your love story unique. From stolen glances to bursts of laughter to the raw emotions of your vows, nothing will pull you out of the moment.
When you work with me, your day stays peaceful and focused on just the two of you.
As a Deaf photographer, I won’t be shouting out poses, giving loud directions, or filling the air with unnecessary chatter. There’s no noise from me—just quiet moments for you to fully take in the sounds around you: the crunch of your boots on the trail, the whisper of the wind, or the steady beat of your hearts.
I’ll blend into the background, almost invisible, while capturing the real, unscripted moments that make your love story unique. From stolen glances to bursts of laughter to the raw emotions of your vows, nothing will pull you out of the moment.
When you work with me, your day stays peaceful and focused on just the two of you.
No noise, no distractions—just your story, exactly as it is.
Summer 2024 | Olivia & Jacob | Juneau, AK
Summer 2024 | Olivia & Jacob | Juneau, AK
Olivia & Jacob
"All I can say is wow!! Payton is the absolute best photographer we’ve ever worked with. Her vision for our elopement in Alaska was something out of a dream, something I couldn’t have thought of myself. Even when we were two hours late to our location, Payton somehow got everything we wanted to do done with an unmatched level of professionalism and creativity. The photos are priceless, and her touches of personalization and romance are the sweetest thing we’ve ever seen. She took care of every detail and planned to the umpteenth degree, and made it the easiest and best day of our lives. We cannot recommend her enough, she will always have a special place in our hearts and we will cherish the photos and memories forever."
"All I can say is wow!! Payton is the absolute best photographer we’ve ever worked with. Her vision for our elopement in Alaska was something out of a dream, something I couldn’t have thought of myself. Even when we were two hours late to our location, Payton somehow got everything we wanted to do done with an unmatched level of professionalism and creativity. The photos are priceless, and her touches of personalization and romance are the sweetest thing we’ve ever seen. She took care of every detail and planned to the umpteenth degree, and made it the easiest and best day of our lives. We cannot recommend her enough, she will always have a special place in our hearts and we will cherish the photos and memories forever."
Get to know me more
I’m a Minnesota-based elopement photographer with a deep love for nature and capturing love stories that are as bold and unique as you are. Growing up Deaf has given me a special way of seeing the world—it's helped me tune into those quiet, powerful moments that others might miss, like the way your hand lingers or the unspoken connection between you two. I work with couples who crave an adventure that's as authentic as their love story and who want to break free from tradition and create something personal and meaningful. Surrounded by Minnesota’s breathtaking landscapes, I truly believe there’s no better place to say 'I do.'
I know that planning an elopement can feel overwhelming, but I’m here to guide you through it, empowering you to create an unforgettable adventure that celebrates your love and your next chapter together.
I’m a Minnesota-based elopement photographer with a deep love for nature and capturing love stories that are as bold and unique as you are. Growing up Deaf has given me a special way of seeing the world—it's helped me tune into those quiet, powerful moments that others might miss, like the way your hand lingers or the unspoken connection between you two. I work with couples who crave an adventure that's as authentic as their love story and who want to break free from tradition and create something personal and meaningful. Surrounded by Minnesota’s breathtaking landscapes, I truly believe there’s no better place to say 'I do.'
I know that planning an elopement can feel overwhelming, but I’m here to guide you through it, empowering you to create an unforgettable adventure that celebrates your love and your next chapter together.
That deaf elopement photographer!
Meet payton
What Your Elopement Day Could Be?
Imagine waking up to the sound of the forest stirring or the soft crash of waves on the shore. The morning air feels fresh, full of possibility, as you take in a quiet moment together. No rush, no crowd—just the two of you. You kick off your shoes and step into a day that’s entirely your own. The sun peeks through the trees, or maybe a soft mist lingers, wrapping the world in a dreamy haze.
You laugh, breathe, and feel the freedom to simply be—exploring, adventuring, or even pausing to soak it all in. Every detail reflects your story, unfolding naturally and beautifully, as the day becomes a memory you’ll carry forever.
Start Your Journey
What Your Elopement Day Could Be?
Imagine waking up to the sound of the forest stirring or the soft crash of waves on the shore. The morning air feels fresh, full of possibility, as you take in a quiet moment together. No rush, no crowd—just the two of you. You kick off your shoes and step into a day that’s entirely your own. The sun peeks through the trees, or maybe a soft mist lingers, wrapping the world in a dreamy haze.
You laugh, breathe, and feel the freedom to simply be—exploring, adventuring, or even pausing to soak it all in. Every detail reflects your story, unfolding naturally and beautifully, as the day becomes a memory you’ll carry forever.
Start Your Journey
You’re always welcome here, no matter your gender, abilities, orientation, or story. However your love looks, I’ve got you.
all welcome, all ways.
Respecting nature is at the heart of everything I do—both in my business and in my life. I’m all about Leave No Trace, ethical living, and keeping our wild places wild.
Environmental justice
Trust and communication are everything, and that goes for us too! I’m an open book—there’s nothing off-limits when it comes to our conversations.
TRUST + COMMUNICATION
my values
Trust and communication are everything, and that goes for us too! I’m an open book—there’s nothing off-limits when it comes to our conversations.
TRUST + COMMUNICATION
Respecting nature is at the heart of everything I do—both in my business and in my life. I’m all about Leave No Trace, ethical living, and keeping our wild places wild.
Environmental justice
You’re always welcome here, no matter your gender, abilities, orientation, or story. However your love looks, I’ve got you.
all welcome, all ways.
my values
THE planning tips
Fall 2023 | Sophia & Harrison | North Shore, MN
Fall 2023 | Sophia & Harrison | North Shore, MN
Fall 2023 | Natalie & Dominic | Boundary Waters
Fall 2023 | Natalie & Dominic |
Boundary Water Canoe Area
Blanca & Peter
Payton Rademacher Photography is the best!!! She covered our wedding this summer and captured all the special moments. Her insightful shots are second to none. Taking the time and care to ensure that every moment is interpreted by joy when she is finished editing. We were very impressed and inspired by her abilities - when we got the pictures back, it was like living the best day of my life all over again! Thanks again!!"
Payton Rademacher Photography is the best!!! She covered our wedding this summer and captured all the special moments. Her insightful shots are second to none. Taking the time and care to ensure that every moment is interpreted by joy when she is finished editing. We were very impressed and inspired by her abilities - when we got the pictures back, it was like living the best day of my life all over again! Thanks again!!"
Michelle & Brian
"Payton has the rare talent of being able to capture the emotions of the moment in a photograph! Planning a wedding can be stressful but planning with Payton was stress free & fun. She responded to all my emails and messages promptly and was always open to my ideas and concerns. And prior to your big day, Payton provides in-depth questionnaires to ensure everything goes smoothly. I highly recommend choosing Payton as your wedding photographer, you won’t regret it!"
"Payton has the rare talent of being able to capture the emotions of the moment in a photograph! Planning a wedding can be stressful but planning with Payton was stress free & fun. She responded to all my emails and messages promptly and was always open to my ideas and concerns. And prior to your big day, Payton provides in-depth questionnaires to ensure everything goes smoothly. I highly recommend choosing Payton as your wedding photographer, you won’t regret it!"
Sarah & Mclntyre
"Payton is exactly the kind of professional you want with you during your wedding day. She brings dedication and joy into every working moment. Payton will make you feel completely taken care of, so that all you have to do is sit back and smile when she says smile. She made sure every detail was taken care of prior to the day; she is an excellent communicator, and an absolute delight to work with. You are guaranteed to have a quality portfolio and a photographer who really wants to know you so that she can provide the best experience possible. Payton is dedicated to her craft and it shows."
"Payton is exactly the kind of professional you want with you during your wedding day. She brings dedication and joy into every working moment. Payton will make you feel completely taken care of, so that all you have to do is sit back and smile when she says smile. She made sure every detail was taken care of prior to the day; she is an excellent communicator, and an absolute delight to work with. You are guaranteed to have a quality portfolio and a photographer who really wants to know you so that she can provide the best experience possible. Payton is dedicated to her craft and it shows."
Carly & Jeremy
“I’m so glad we chose Payton to be our wedding photographer! She did a wonderful job capturing our day. She was very professional throughout the whole process. Communication was never an issue, she uses her resources when needed but mostly she has a very clear way of showing exactly what she is communicating. Payton is very open and receptive to feedback and input. She has skills of a well seasoned photographer without the extreme price tag. We would hire her again without question!!”
“I’m so glad we chose Payton to be our wedding photographer! She did a wonderful job capturing our day. She was very professional throughout the whole process. Communication was never an issue, she uses her resources when needed but mostly she has a very clear way of showing exactly what she is communicating. Payton is very open and receptive to feedback and input. She has skills of a well seasoned photographer without the extreme price tag. We would hire her again without question!!”
step two
What's next?
step one
step three
step four
We’ll meet through a Zoom call, and if we’re a good match, I’ll send over a contract and retainer payment to reserve your date.
Ready to bring your daydream to life? First up, just fill out the contact form and send it my way.
Once the contract and retainer are done, we’ll jump into planning your dream day and making sure it’s all tailored to you!
You two get to soak in the first best day of your forever, then go on to live your happily ever after.
YES let's do it!
let's go!
Ready to roam?
Fall 2024 | Cailyn & Matthew | Grand Marais, MN
Fall 2024 | Cailyn & Matthew |
Grand Marais, MN
01. IS THE TRAVEL FEE INCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGES?
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
02. HOW MANY IMAGES ARE INCLUDED?
03. CAN YOU HELP US PLAN A LOCATION?
04. HOW DOES PAYMENT WORK?
05. DO WE NEED TO HIKE?
06. WHAT HAPPENS IF THE WEATHER IS BAD?
07. HOW EARLY SHOULD WE REACH OUT?
08. CAN WE BRING OUR PET?
09. DO YOU HELP IN THE PLANNING PROCESS?
10. WHAT TIME OF YEAR IS BEST FOR OUR ELOPEMENT?
01. IS THE TRAVEL FEE INCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGES?
Yes, the travel fee is included in my elopement packages with no hidden or additional fees. When you inquire with me, please be as detailed as possible. This way, I can share an accurate resources for you to look at.
back
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
02. HOW MANY IMAGES ARE INCLUDED?
The short answer? UNLIMITED.
You're paying to have your love story documented; I believe you deserve to have every "good" photo sent your way.
back
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
03. CAN YOU HELP US PLAN A LOCATION?
Yes absolutely! I love to recommending the locations based off your wants and needs. I can always let you know any information you would need to know about elope in whichever spot you go with. I will also plan the back up location in case of weather, etc.
back
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
04. HOW DOES PAYMENT WORK?
A contract and non-refundable retainer is required to secure a date and my services.
All payments are done electronically (but we can chat more about this when you inquire).
back
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
05. DO WE NEED TO HIKE?
Not at all! Your day is customized to what most speaks to you. You can canoe, walk along an ADA accessible trail, ride snowmobile, have a picnic, go brewery hopping, roast marshmallows, whatever sounds adventurous to you! I’m here as a resource to help you find the perfect location(s) for you and your partner.
back
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
06. WHAT HAPPENS IF THE WEATHER IS BAD?
Our schedule is set months in advance, so we don’t reschedule due to weather. But rain or shine, your wedding day is going to be magical. I’ve photographed adventure weddings in all kinds of weather: rain, windy, snow, and fog. I will always make sure we have a Plan B for every wedding, but we also have a Plan C (...and sometimes even a Plan D).
back
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
07. HOW EARLY SHOULD WE REACH OUT?
As soon as possible when you start planning your elopement or wedding. There are other people who are searching the same as you are. Many vendors can be booked out on the date you choose, even if it is a few years later. Book the vendors as soon as you can, and the sooner the better.
back
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
08. CAN WE BRING OUR PET?
YES! There’s nothing that I love more than a pup-of-honor! If your dream elopement wouldn’t be the same without your dog, I can make it happen.
back
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
09. DO YOU HELP IN THE PLANNING PROCESS?
One of my fave questions! From the second you book with me, you'll have a built-in planner on your side. From questionnaires to location guides and recommendations, to a customized timeline, and even permit assistance for elopements... My goal is to make your big day as stress-free as possible.
back
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
10. WHAT TIME OF YEAR IS BEST FOR OUR ELOPEMENT?
It all depends on your vision and location!
In North Shore, Minnesota, most couples choose May through December.
In the Pacific Northwest, the mountain views—most couples choose July through early October.
In Alaska, most couples choose May through September.
