A Wildly Romantic Glen Coe Elopement Captured on Analog 35mm & Medium Format Film
Mia & Joe’s Spring Elopement in the Scottish Highlands
An Intimate Wedding on Nostalgic and Timeless Film Grain
Two film photography lovers, two rock stars - Mia and Joe’s springtime elopement in Glencoe was nothing short of magical, an unforgettable blend of raw emotion, breathtaking landscapes, and timeless film photography. It was, without a doubt, one of the most heartfelt and intimate celebrations I’ve had the joy of capturing on analog film in 2025 so far.
Traveling all the way from South Carolina, USA, Mia and Joe chose the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands to exchange their vows. On a radiant April day, we ventured into the heart of Glen Coe, where they held a deeply personal ceremony led by the wonderful humanist, Lynn. With the sun casting golden light over the glens, every moment felt straight out of a dream.
Following the ceremony, we explored more of Glen Coe and ventured into the dramatic landscapes of Glen Etive. Along the way, I documented their love story entirely on analog film, capturing every look, laugh, and quiet moment. To make their elopement adventure even more personal, I handed them a point-and-shoot film camera so they could snap some memories of their own - scroll down to see the fun results from their perspective!
Keep reading for a glimpse into their beautiful Scottish elopement, and enjoy a curated selection of images from this unforgettable day in the Highlands.
Raw, Real, and Romantic 35mm Film Photography | A Heartfelt Elopement Ceremony in Glen Coe
Mia, how did you two meet, what’s your journey been like, and how did the idea of eloping come about?
Joe and I originally met through mutual friends, but got to know each other better when we started a band in 2018. We became great friends and later realized that we wanted to pursue a romantic relationship! We still play in that same band, Art Star, and have enjoyed supporting each other's creative endeavors since. Art and music and creative expression are all really important to both of us, so it feels special knowing that we understand each other in that way.
The idea of eloping came about when we realized that a big, busy and expensive wedding just wasn't in the cards for us. We wanted to honor what was most important to us - being together.
How did you come across Weirdie Grizzly as your elopement film photographer?
We did a lot of research on elopement photographers in Europe and the UK and we were drawn to the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands. We stumbled upon Weirdie Grizzly’s Instagram photos and as we learned more about his approach, realized how much he loves film and analog photography. I (Mia) have been learning a lot about film photography, dabbling some here and there myself. As artists, we have a lot of respect for people who love their craft, and it comes across that is true for Weirdie Grizzly. So we knew that he would be a great fit!
Highland Elopement Magic | Glen Etive Runaway Wedding on Analog 35mm Film
What drew you to the spots you chose for your elopement photos?
There seems to be so much reverence and respect for the ancient and wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands by the people who live there and those who are lucky enough to visit. We wanted to feel surrounded by love and light on our special day and couldn't think of a better location.
Was there anything specific that inspired your elopement in Scotland?
Nature, love and respect for the Earth and love, and respect for each other.
Wildly in Love | A Glen Coe Elopement Captured on Magical Film
What were your absolute favourite moments from your Glen Coe elopement day?
The ceremony was so special to us. Lynn Munro blew us away with a beautifully written ceremony, with so many surprises sprinkled in. Even so far away from our loved ones, we felt surrounded by and full of love in that moment. We loved spending time with Laszlo, aka Weirdie Grizzly. He made us laugh, he made us feel comfortable in front of the camera and he showed us around to some of his favorite spots in Glen Coe and Glen Etive. We also really enjoyed his ingenuity! One of our favorite parts of the day was hanging out with his daughter Emma, learning that she likes dogs and giving her the flowers :) His family was so sweet to us!
Do you have any advice for other couples thinking about eloping in Scotland?
Eloping was the best decision we could have made and we wouldn't change a thing. Give yourself plenty of time to explore, hike and enjoy the natural beauty. Even when you give yourself a lot of time to spend there, you will always wish you had more.
Scottish Highland Romance Through a Vintage Lens | A Scotland Elopement Captured with a 62-Year-Old Leica Camera on B&W Film
Glen Coe Elopement Like No Other | Scotland Elopement on Unique Medium Format Film Captured with a Vintage Pentax 6x7
One of my favorite things to do during an elopement is hand over a point-and-shoot film camera to the couple, giving them a fun and personal way to document their day through their own eyes. It’s a beautiful, unfiltered glimpse into their experience—full of spontaneous moments and real emotion.
Here’s a small selection of the photos Mia and Joe captured themselves during their unforgettable elopement adventure in Scotland.
The Dream Team & Thoughtful Details
This beautiful elopement came together with the help of some truly special touches and talented folks:
Ceremony: The heartfelt ceremony was led by the amazing Lynn Munro, a warm and genuine humanist who brought so much meaning to the moment.
Bride’s Dress: Mia wore a stunning gown by Andrea Tuton from A Plus, perfectly suited for her windswept Highland vows.
Groom’s Suit: In true elopement fashion, Joe looked effortlessly cool in a thrifted suit.
Hair & Makeup: Mia did her own hair and makeup, embracing her natural beauty with grace and intention.
Footwear: For trekking through the rugged glens, both wore trusty pairs of Keen boots - practical and perfect for adventure.
Jewelry:
Mia’s rings: Engagement ring by The Northway Studio, wedding band by Knot and Splice
Joe’s ring: Wedding band by Holden Rings
Accommodation: They stayed at the cozy and scenic Isle of Glencoe Hotel, nestled right on the shore of Loch Leven.
Planning & Photography: Weirdie Grizzly, blending storytelling and analog film to document their epic day.
Why Elope? | Top Reasons to Choose a Scotland Elopement
Thinking of ditching tradition and planning an unforgettable elopement? Here’s why eloping in Scotland is one of the most incredible choices you can make for your intimate wedding day:
1. You Can Legally Elope Almost Anywhere in Scotland
Scotland is the only country in the UK where you can have a legal wedding ceremony almost anywhere—on a mountaintop, beside a loch, deep in the forest, or on a dramatic cliffside. Whether you're spiritual, religious, agnostic, LGBTQ+, or anything in between, Scotland welcomes all love stories. All you need is a legal officiant and two witnesses.
2. Scotland Is Breathtaking Year-Round
Rain or shine, Scotland’s landscapes are stunning in every season. From moody mists and stormy skies to golden sunsets over the Highlands, every kind of weather adds a magical touch to your Scotland elopement photography. The raw beauty of this land is unmatched—and it photographs beautifully on film and digital alike.
3. Less Stress, More Intimacy
Big weddings can be overwhelming—both emotionally and financially. Eloping in Scotland allows you to focus on what truly matters: your connection, your vows, and your adventure together. Say goodbye to seating charts and hello to standing hand-in-hand in nature’s cathedral.
4. Endless Elopement Locations & Experiences
Scotland is packed with elopement-friendly destinations and unforgettable experiences. Think ancient castles, whisky distilleries, cozy lodges, and scenic hikes. Whether you’re planning a Glen Coe elopement, a city elopement in Edinburgh, or a wild Isle of Skye ceremony, you’ll find a perfect spot for your love story.
5. Unique & Epic Landscapes for Elopement Photography
The Scottish Highlands are among the most rugged and romantic landscapes in Europe. Formed by ancient volcanoes and carved by glaciers, these dramatic backdrops are ideal for unforgettable elopement photos. From Glen Etive to the Cairngorms, the Isle of Skye to Loch Lomond, every location is a photographer’s dream.
Ready to Plan Your Dream Elopement?
If you're looking for an experienced Scotland elopement photographer who offers more than just beautiful images—someone who knows the landscapes of the Scottish Highlands - Isle of Skye, Glen Coe, and the Cairngorms - inside and out. I'm here to guide you every step of the way.
I offer exclusive elopement photography and planning services, tailored to couples who want a meaningful, stress-free, and unforgettable adventure. From helping you find the perfect ceremony spot to capturing your story on analog 35mm and 120 film, I’m here to turn your vision into a reality.
Let’s chat! Schedule your free elopement consultation, and together we’ll design a day that reflects who you are—wild, emotional, and beautifully you.
I promise you a Scotland elopement experience like no other, just as many happy couples have experienced before. Let’s make your love story truly timeless.
Let’s Start Planning Your Scotland Elopement
Ready to create something unforgettable together?
Whether you're dreaming of saying your vows on the Isle of Skye, wandering through the wilds of Glen Coe, or hiking into a hidden Highland glen, I’d love to help you bring it all to life.
✨ What’s included with your free consultation:
A relaxed video call to get to know each other
Answers to all your questions about eloping in Scotland
Local insights on the best elopement locations, vendors, and travel tips
A chance to see if we’re the perfect fit for your dream elopement
📅 Availability is limited, especially during peak seasons - so don’t wait too long!
👉 Click here to contact me Let’s turn your Scotland elopement into an experience you’ll cherish forever.
