Book your date here!
Your Story, Your Way
Maybe you've dreamed of saying your vows on a quiet island, surrounded by nothing but ancient pines and crystal-clear waters. Or perhaps you imagine a sunrise ceremony on glacier-smoothed rocks, with loons calling in the distance.
The Boundary Waters hold space for the kind of love that doesn't need an audience—just two hearts, honest words, and wild places. There's something magical about choosing to begin your marriage here, where time slows down and the only schedule is the rhythm of your own hearts.
I'm here to help you create and capture an elopement that feels true to who you are. No cookie-cutter ceremonies, no forced traditions—just you two, choosing your own path through one of Minnesota's most sacred wilderness areas.
You deserve a day that feels like you.
Book your date here!
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.
Boundary Waters
Elopement Photographer
Where Silence Meets Visual Poetry
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.
Maybe you've dreamed of saying your vows on a quiet island, surrounded by nothing but ancient pines and crystal-clear waters. Or perhaps you imagine a sunrise ceremony on glacier-smoothed rocks, with loons calling in the distance.
The Boundary Waters hold space for the kind of love that doesn't need an audience—just two hearts, honest words, and wild places. There's something magical about choosing to begin your marriage here, where time slows down and the only schedule is the rhythm of your own hearts.
I'm here to help you create and capture an elopement that feels true to who you are. No cookie-cutter ceremonies, no forced traditions—just you two, choosing your own path through one of Minnesota's most sacred wilderness areas.
You deserve a day that feels
like 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.
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.
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 Mminnesota’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.
Boundary Waters Adventure elopement photographer
Meet payton
And yes that deaf elopement photographer!
What Your Elopement Day Could Be?
Imagine waking up to the gentle call of loons echoing across misty waters, or the soft rustle of white pines swaying above your campsite. The crisp northern air fills your lungs with possibility as you share quiet morning coffee on sun-warmed granite, no rush, no crowds—just the two of you and the wilderness stretching endlessly ahead.
You slip into a day that's entirely yours, whether that means paddling through mirror-like waters to a secret ceremony spot or hiking hand in hand along ancient portage trails. The sunlight filters through the old-growth forest canopy, or perhaps a gentle fog wraps the lakes in a dreamlike haze, making everything feel sacred and intimate.
You laugh, breathe, and embrace the freedom to simply be—discovering hidden coves, sharing trail mix on mossy rocks, or pausing to watch eagles soar overhead. Every moment, every detail reflects your story, unfolding naturally in this pristine wilderness. The day becomes a memory as deep as the lakes and as enduring as the Boundary Waters themselves.
Start Your Journey
What Your Elopement Day Could Be?
Imagine waking up to the gentle call of loons echoing across misty waters, or the soft rustle of white pines swaying above your campsite. The crisp northern air fills your lungs with possibility as you share quiet morning coffee on sun-warmed granite, no rush, no crowds—just the two of you and the wilderness stretching endlessly ahead.
You slip into a day that's entirely yours, whether that means paddling through mirror-like waters to a secret ceremony spot or hiking hand in hand along ancient portage trails. The sunlight filters through the old-growth forest canopy, or perhaps a gentle fog wraps the lakes in a dreamlike haze, making everything feel sacred and intimate.
You laugh, breathe, and embrace the freedom to simply be—discovering hidden coves, sharing trail mix on mossy rocks, or pausing to watch eagles soar overhead. Every moment, every detail reflects your story, unfolding naturally in this pristine wilderness. The day becomes a memory as deep as the lakes and as enduring as the Boundary Waters themselves.
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
Winter 2023 | Katie & Sam | Temperance River State Park
Winter 2023 | Katie & Sam | Temperance River State Park
Deena & Michael
In Payton’s presence and through her lens, we found ourselves instantly at ease. Talent like hers is a blend of artistry and authenticity, mastery and magic. Her hallmarks are superb communication and clear heartfelt delight for what she does. Plus, she adored our dog!
All the stars go to Payton. Thank you for making our elopement fun and our memories beautiful!
"LOVED working with Payton!! She is so sweet to work with and knows how to capture love so well! She really knows how to make elopement visions come together. You can tell she has a passion for elopements!! If you're looking for a genuine and greatly talented person to capture your elopement, she's your gal!"
step two
so...What's next?
step one
step three
step four
YES let's do it!
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 Boundary Waters elopement 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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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).
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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.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
let's go!
Ready to roam?
Fall 2023 | Natalie & Dominic | Boundary Waters
Fall 2023 | Natalie & Dominic
| Boundary Waters
