Nyssa + Nick
for once, I'm not going to give away this location; i don't want the influencers to find it!
Adventure elopements don’t need to follow the same well-worn paths you’ve seen on Instagram. The Dolomites are full of quiet corners and wide-open views, and Nyssa and Nick’s love story is the perfect example of what happens when you trust the mountains, lean into flexibility, and choose a spot far from the crowds.
Created: November 30, 2025
Their private sunset session in the Dolomites, not a soul in sight.
Their Honeymoon Adventure
Nyssa and Nick had already celebrated a full wedding back home, but the Dolomites were where they wanted wedding photos that truly felt like them. They planned a seven-day trek as part of their honeymoon and booked their session with me at the beginning of their trip so they’d have fresh energy and a bit of pre-hike excitement.
The plan was perfect. Buuuuut, the weather wasn’t.
Mountain forecasts can be unpredictable, even in August. Clouds rolled in, rain settled over the ridgelines, and visibility dropped. Rather than forcing a rushed or compromised session, we made a simple choice: postpone.
Because I’m based locally in the Dolomites, I didn’t need to worry about travel schedules, jet lag, flights, or tight timelines. That flexibility meant we could wait for the exact right moment after they completed their seven-day trek. And it was absolutely worth it.
Nyssa + nick
She communicates quickly and clearly, we got our photos back faster than expected, and we even had to switch days/times of our shoot multiple times due to weather.
Even some wildflowers came out to join
Privacy matters
Even sunrise at the big-name spots can feel surprisingly busy in peak season. For couples craving meaningful connection, a quieter location can transform the entire mood of the experience.
We selected a quieter stretch of the trail where the path widens and the views open dramatically. Choosing this section gave them room to breathe and privacy for their emotional moment. We planned for late afternoon light for warmth without harsh shadows. The trail can be exposed, so good footwear and water were essential, but Hanna and Clark embraced the experience with ease. Their vows here felt grounded, quiet, and unforgettable.
Why We Skipped the Crowded Hotspots
Yes, Cadini di Misurina and Lago di Braies are iconic. They’re stunning. They’re famous for a reason, and I 1000% get it. But if you’ve ever checked the parking lots at sunrise in August, you’ll understand why Nyssa and Nick wanted something different.
Hidden viewpoints still create “big wow”
Some of the best Dolomites backdrops aren’t on tourist maps or pinned on Instagram. With a bit of scouting and local knowledge, you can find ridgelines and meadows that feel completely untouched.
Flexibility is easier with a local guide
As a Dolomites-based photographer, I keep a rotating list of private, lesser-known locations that work in different weather conditions and seasons. This is especially helpful when plans need a quick pivot, which about 20% of the time we do. I give my clients a guaranteed backup date, and full flexibility to change to even another date if I'm available. I have healthy boundaries for myself and say no when I know I need to, but if I've got no real plans aside from a yoga class anyway, I don't mind.
For Nyssa and Nick, August crowds didn’t matter at all. We had the entire area to ourselves. My job extends far past just photography, and being your hiking/location guide is another role I take on for you.
A Dolomites Location With Zero Crowds
The spot we chose isn’t one of the “famous three,” and that was exactly the point. We hiked into a quiet alpine basin framed by soft light, rolling cliffs, and pastel peaks. We weren't competing for spots with other brides, or avoiding hoards of tripods. It was really nice to just have the place for us.
What Their Session Felt Like
Think "dance like no one's watching". Those moments you have with your partner that can sometimes be so ridiculous that you just couldn't do them in public, but they are insanely cute and define you as a couple in a way no one could understand. These are moments that come straight out of a movie, that people often think don't exist in real life. That's what a session like this feels like.
When else can I ask my clients to do just TERRIBLE dance moves so I can make a stupid GIF that they can laugh at later?
The light that day was gentle and golden, the kind that feels like a gift after a string of grey weather. Everything aligned in a way that only happens when you trust the process and stay open to a new plan. I can't say it was the perfect sunset, but there was a tone to it that fit the setting and made it perfect for them.
Check out the rest of their session
Choosing Your Own Off-the-Beaten-Path Spot
If you’re dreaming of an elopement but want something more personal than the usual hotspots, you absolutely can have that. Some of the most beautiful locations in the Dolomites are the ones without names.
Here’s what I help with:
• Scouting private or quiet areas that match your comfort level
• Timing suggestions to avoid tour buses and sunrise crowds
• Backup locations in case weather shifts
• Flexible scheduling so you never have to force perfect conditions
Your day should feel like yours, not like a repeat of someone else’s Instagram post.
And don't forget, I'm also an expert in elopements in Iceland and Switzerland!
Pro Tips for a Private Dolomites Adventure Elopement
• Avoid peak hours. Sunrise is great, but golden hour on a lesser-known trail can be even better.
• Stay open to alternatives. Sometimes a location swap leads to even more magical light.
• Hike a little. Privacy increases with every kilometre you put between you and the parking lot.
• Hire someone local. It reduces stress, expands your location options, and makes last-minute changes easy.
• Think shoulder seasons. Late September and early October offer some of the best privacy.
FAQ
Is it really possible to find private spots in the Dolomites?
Absolutely. With a bit of local insight and timing strategy, it’s still possible even in August. If you're open to it, book your photographer/planner before booking your date in order to optimize when they think is the best time for you as a couple.
Do you help choose the location?
Yes. I offer tailored recommendations based on light, season, privacy, and how much hiking you want to do.
What if the weather changes?
We build in flexibility and options. Nyssa and Nick’s story is a great example of how waiting one extra day can make all the difference.
Do we need to do a long hike?
Not at all. Some incredibly quiet and scenic spots are only a short walk away. You can do walks/hikes that range from 20 minutes to 3 hours, or opt for a helicopter elopement.
Ready to Plan Your Italy Adventure Elopement?
If you’re dreaming about adventure elopements or wedding photos that feel private, intentional, and rooted in the mountains, I’d love to help you find your own quiet corner of the Dolomites.
Inquire here and let’s start mapping your day!
Shawna was nothing short of incredible to work with. She shot our wedding photos during our honeymoon, and not only did the photos turn out better than we could have ever dreamed of – she was also extremely easy to work with throughout the entire process. She communicates quickly and clearly, we got our photos back faster than expected, and we even had to switch days/times of our shoot multiple times due to weather. Shawna made us feel so comfortable throughout the shoot, and did a great job guiding us to get the perfect shot. For anyone looking to have a dolomites wedding, elopement, engagement, or couples shoot, I HIGHLY recommend working with Shawna!!
Testimonial by Nyssa & nick
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