Why should you hire a local photographer for your wedding in Crested Butte?

Hire a local photographer in Crested Butte because it means you will be guided by a professional who knows the mountains, the weather, seasonal access and the best locations for your stunning photos! At 9000′ above sea level, Crested Butte poses location challenges, unusual weather patterns and seasonal specifics that only pros who have photographed in the valley for a long time understand. The local professionals in Crested Butte will help guide your planning decisions and be a trusted advisor on your wedding day.

Do I need a photographer who knows Crested Butte?

Yes! Your should hire a local photographer and as many local vendors as possible. They will have the most knowledge of the area, the weather and the challenges of getting married in the mountains. You can trust a local photographer to guide you before your wedding and on your weddings day for maximum comfort, fun and beauty.

How does mountain light affect wedding photos?

Mountain light is lovely in the mornings and evenings, and can be quite harsh and direct in the afternoons. Often the skies are blue during the day but being closer to the sun can create some harsh shadows as well as sunburns! Try to plan for your wedding ceremony to fall within the afternoon timeline. Here are some timeframes that are best for photos in Crested Butte:

• July– 7am to 10am/ 4pm to 8pm
• September– 8am to 10am/ 4pm to 7pm
• Winter– 9am to 11am/ 2pm to 4pm

What happens if weather changes on a mountain wedding day?

The weather in Crested Butte moves quickly. This can be good and bad. Afternoon thunderstorms are regular in July but luckily they move out as fast as they move in. It is best to try and wait out the weather as it often will stop within 30 minutes. And many times in the summer rainbows appear!

Best photo locations in Crested Butte for weddings?

The best locations for wedding photos in Crested Butte inlcude:

• CB Campground– lupine and sunflower fields
• Woods Walk– aspen forest and open meadows
• Mt. Crested Butte– flower fields and sweeping views

When is wildflower season in Crested Butte for photos?

Wildflower season in Crested Butte is June through August.

• June– lupine fields
• July– sunflower fields and a large variety of wildflowers
• August– wildfire flowers

How does altitude affect weddings in Crested Butte?

It is important to keep in mind the altitude of Crested Butte and Mt. Crested Butte. At 9000′ there are a lot of things to consider. The most important issue to be aware of is altitude sickness. Drink lots of water and go slow! Add hydration packets like Acli-Mate to your guest welcome baskets and provide water at the ceremony and reception. Encourage guests to drink a glass of water with each alcoholic beverage to prevent hangovers and sickness. Provide sunscreen in the bathroom or umbrellas during the wedding ceremony to protect from the strong sun.

Can a local photographer help with timeline planning?

Yes! A local photographer will absolutely help with the timeline planning. Seasoned photographers will offer insight on how the day should unfold for the best experience for your guests as well as the best times of day for your photos. A typical full-day timeline will look like:

• 11am getting ready photos
• 1:15pm first look
• 1:30-2:45pm couple’s portraits
• 2:45pm arrive at cermeony
• 3pm cermeony
• 2pm family/wedding party photos
• 5pm cocktail hour
• 6pm dinner
• 6:45pm toasts
• 7pm cake cutting
• 7:15pm first dances
• 7:45pm dancing

FAQ — Why hire a local photographer for your wedding?

How many weddings should your photographer have photographed in Crested Butte?

A professional wedding photographer in Crested Butte will on average photograph 10 wedding a year. Some veterans will take less to really give each wedding client a lot of attention and energy. Look for photographers who have been working in Crested Butte for over 10 years.

Do photographers help choose photo locations based on season?

Yes! Local photographers in Crested Butte will know all the best locations in each season, and locations that are not accessible at different times of the year.

Is there a backup indoor locations if it storms?

There are several locations with indoor access. The Mountain Wedding Garden has a pavilion often used for the reception. Ten Peaks on Mt. Crested Butte has a large tent. Outdoor locations such as the Town Ranch often will include a tent for the reception.

Will a local photographer help plan our timeline around light?

Yes local photographers will make suggestions depending on the time of year when the best light is for your wedding location.

Do local photographers know the best wildflower and fall color spots?

Yes! Locals know all the best spots for views, foliage and wildflower fields.

• June- lupine fields at the CB Campground
• July- sunflower fields
• August- wildfire flowers up Slate River Rd
• September- fall foliage out Kebler Pass

Will photographers help with permits?

Yes Crested Butte photographers can help with local site permits as well as visiting the USDA website for forest service permits.

How early should a photographer arrive on the wedding day?

The photographer will arrive in the morning to get the getting ready photos. This is usually an hour to two hours before the first event, like the first look or ceremony.

Do local photographers coordinate with other local vendors?

Yes! Many of the local photographers in Crested Butte have been working with local vendors for years. They can make suggestions on who to hire for your event!

Want the best wedding photographer in Crested Butte? Check out Third Eye Photography for over 20 years of experience in the valley and shooting weddings. Visit the blog for more wedding questions answered and photos!