Devon is one of the most atmospheric places to photograph, and Jake and Natalie’s Dartmoor elopement was the perfect example of why. The wild landscape, the soft grey light and the sense of quiet made their day feel intimate and cinematic from the very beginning. For a couple travelling all the way from Hong Kong, it was a beautiful return to the place where their story first began.

Jake and Natalie reached out to me from the other side of the world, planning a personal elopement in Dartmoor National Park. Their journey together started a decade earlier in South Devon, so coming back to where it all began felt like a meaningful way to celebrate their commitment.

The day began at the luxurious  Bovey Castle. one of Devon’s most impressive hotels and wedding venues. Hair and makeup were handled by the experienced Melanie MUA. Even with grey skies and steady rain, the mood could not have been more perfect. The weather brought a soft, cinematic atmosphere that felt so true to Dartmoor and created a beautiful backdrop for their portraits.

We spent some time exploring the castle grounds to ease into the day. I kept the experience relaxed, encouraging them to wander, talk and enjoy the quiet moments between them. These small interactions are always the ones that reveal real connection, and the gentle pace suited them perfectly.

Once we were happy with the castle portraits, we set off in search of Dartmoor’s iconic open landscapes. True to form, Dartmoor delivered moody skies, misty hills—and plenty of mud. Thankfully, Natalie had planned ahead and was secretly wearing wellies under her dress!

As we arrived, the rain finally cleared. With the fog lifting and the colours of the moor shining through, we were able to get some beautiful, natural wedding photography out on the open landscape. I wanted the photos to feel adventurous but also honest—a blend of candid moments and cinematic portraits.

To finish the shoot, I pulled out a bottle of Prosecco and handed it to the couple to spray in celebration. (Yes, it covered me and my camera, and it was totally worth it.) That spontaneous joy, messy and real, was the perfect ending to an emotional and personal elopement.

Planning an Elopement in Dartmoor?

Whether you’re coming from across the globe or just down the road, Dartmoor offers the perfect setting for an adventurous, intimate elopement. As a Devon wedding photographer who specialises in nature-inspired wedding photography, I capture real moments with a natural, artistic touch.

If you’re looking for someone to document your day with honesty and creativity, I’d love to hear from you. Get in touch here.