As a wedding photographer, I’ve noticed more and more couples are choosing intimate celebrations like micro weddings and elopements over large traditional weddings. If you’re starting to plan a small, meaningful celebration in the Houston area—or anywhere, really—you’ve probably come across both terms and wondered which one fits your vision best. Let me walk you through the differences and similarities from behind the camera—and how either choice can result in stunning, deeply personal wedding photos.
What Is an Elopement?
Gone are the days when “elopement” meant running off to Vegas in secret. Today, an elopement is a small, intentional wedding day that focuses on just the couple—or sometimes includes a few close family members or friends (typically under 10-15 people total). There’s no set timeline, no strict rules, and no pressure to host a huge event. As a Houston elopement photographer, I love that elopements allow couples to plan a wedding day that feels 100% true to them. Whether it’s saying your vows at sunrise on the beach in Galveston, having a short ceremony at the 1910 Courthouse, or exploring a park like the Houston Botanic Garden after a private vow exchange—elopements are all about meaningful moments and gorgeous, natural photography.
What Is a Micro Wedding?
A micro wedding is basically a “mini” version of a traditional wedding. It typically includes 15–40 guests—often just immediate family and close friends—and features most of the wedding elements you’re used to: a ceremony, reception, florals, first dance, cake, and sometimes even speeches and games. It has a timeline and structure, just scaled down for a more relaxed, intimate experience. As a Houston micro wedding photographer, I’ve seen couples transform beautiful small venues like Haak Winery, The Belamour, or even their own backyard into unforgettable wedding spaces. The smaller guest list means more time with your people and more flexibility to make the day personal—and photo-perfect.
Elopement vs. Micro Wedding: Key Differences
Elopements Guest Count: Just the couple, or up to 10–15 guests; Structure: Flexible, often unstructured; Venue Types: Beach, City Park, Courthouse; Activities: Vow exchange + photo session; Vibe: Personal, adventurous, spontaneous
Micro Weddings Guest Count: Typically 15–40 guests; Structure: More traditional wedding timeline; Venue Types: Small venue, Backyard, Garden; Activities: Ceremony + dinner or reception; Vibe: Intimate, relaxed, and semi-traditional
What Kind of Photos Will You Get?
Elopement Photography tends to focus on candid moments, beautiful landscapes, and the couple just being themselves. These sessions are relaxed and often filled with laughter, tears, and genuine emotion.
Micro Wedding Photography captures more formal elements—like group portraits, décor, and first dances—but in a low-pressure, intimate setting. You’ll still get those big moments, just with fewer people and less stress.
Both options result in stunning wedding photo galleries filled with connection, authenticity, and personality.
Which Is Right for You?
Ask yourself:
Do you want to focus just on the two of you, or can’t imagine your day without family and close friends?
Do you want a structured celebration or more freedom to do what feels right in the moment?
Are you dreaming of an epic location—or a cozy, meaningful space close to home?