Some of the best weddings I've ever photographed had fewer than ten people at them.
A couple saying vows under redwoods in the Otways. A windswept ceremony in the Grampians with just their parents watching. A backyard wedding in Forrest where the dog was the ring bearer.
If you're skipping the big production and keeping it small, I'm your guy. I'm Mike, a photographer based in Geelong, and elopements are some of my favourite days on the calendar.
No running order. No formalities you don't want. Just the two of you, the people who matter most, and somewhere beautiful.
Within a couple of hours of Geelong you've got some of the best elopement country in Australia.
The Otways, with rainforest, waterfalls and the famous redwoods. The Great Ocean Road, where every lookout is a ceremony spot. The beaches of the Surf Coast and the Bellarine. The Grampians, if you want mountains behind your vows. Or honestly, your own backyard. Some of my favourite small weddings have happened over a long table at home.
I know these places well because I live here. I can point you to spots that photograph beautifully, suggest times when the light is at its best, and help you build a simple plan for the day. Even a tiny wedding flows better with a loose plan.
You picked the right part of the world for it
Most elopements and micro weddings fit perfectly into The Short Story. Four hours of coverage for $2,500, which is usually plenty for getting ready, the ceremony, portraits and a toast or two. It's available for dates within six months, which suits how most elopements come together anyway.
Want more of the day covered? The seven and nine hour packages work just as well for small weddings as big ones.
Whichever way you go, you get fully edited high-resolution images, sneak peeks within 24 hours, and your full gallery within 21 days, guaranteed.
Like it should be
Small wedding, simple process
Eloping couples usually tell me the same thing. They didn't want a photographer who'd turn their quiet day into a photoshoot.
Good. Neither do I.
I'll guide you just enough that you never feel lost, then get out of the way. What you'll get back is the day as it actually was. The nerves. The laughter. The moment it hits you both that you actually did it.
No performance required
LOVE NOTE FROM Brydie + James
"He took time to get to know James and I on a deeper level so that on the day he nailed the type of photos we were after. He made the day so enjoyable and was a sense of calm when times got a little stressful. The photos are absolutely beautiful.
We will be recommending Mike to everyone we can possibly think of.
Thanks Mike, highly recommend!"
An amazing human and an even better photographer
LOVE NOTE FROM Laura + Tom
"From start to finish, he was relaxed, fun, and an absolute joy to have around on our big day. He has an incredible ability to capture moments in a way that feels natural and effortless. During the ceremony, he took stunning shots without us even noticing he was there (in the best way possible!). Our family and friends have not stopped raving about how friendly and great he was - especially when we had a sneak peak few photos to show the day after the wedding!
We can’t recommend Mike enough!"
Mike was absolutely epic!
LOVE NOTE FROM Ellen + Josh
"We're extremely grateful for how organised he was, not only on the day but in the lead-up helping us plan the logistics and timings when we had no idea what we were doing. He's an easygoing and lovely bloke and was particularly good at getting photos of the kids. He helped ease our nerves and made sure the day ran smoothly and we can't thank him enough."
He helped ease our nerves and made sure the day ran smoothly
LOVE NOTE FROM Elisabeth + Jan
"... Also clearly experienced with knowing which range of images to capture and how to set them up perfectly, including guiding you to the best poses in a fun and easygoing way. Mike was so supportive and helpful just in general on the day and his energetic, warm, fun and friendly personality also made us feel super comfortable - which really helped with the photos as well as contributing to the happy celebratory vibe on our special day!
Thanks Mike, highly recommend!"
He is truly talented and also clearly experienced
Yep, I shoot all over. Geelong, the Surf Coast, the Bellarine, and right across Victoria. Travel within 100km of Geelong is included with seven and nine hour coverage, and 50km with the four hour option. Heading further afield? Just mention it in your enquiry and I'll sort the details.
Q: Do you travel outside Geelong?
Absolutely. I offer planning support and casual catch-ups so everything feels clear and relaxed ahead of time. For four hour bookings, we'll catch up over Zoom or phone.
Q: Can we meet before the day?
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