Saying ‘I do’ to the love of your life is the start of an adventure, and what better way to capture that than with a real escapade? Classic destinations for bridal portraits (think Paris and Japan) will never lose their sparkle, but veer off the beaten path and you’ll have a photo album that proves to your grandkids that grandma and grandpa were once super cool and adventurous. Want a gasp-inducing, heart-stopping adrenaline burst with your beloved? Here are some ideas!
#01 Re-enact Jaws, With a Romantic Twist!
Story: Swimming With Whale Sharks in The Philippines by Metrophoto
We’re kidding – this is not meant to be a horror story, but it is meant to get your blood pumping. For the sea babies and dive addicts, there’s a spot in the Philippines where you can swim with whale sharks in their natural habitat. In Oslob, right by Cebu where the beaches are breathtaking and the sunsets picturesque, sneak in a cliff jump or go canyoneering by the Kawasan Falls.
#02 Out of Africa
Story: Walk on the Wild Side by Axioo
For many, just a glimpse of a leopard in the flesh is a once in a lifetime experience, and enough to get their heart rate up! The beautiful terrain on which these animals roam, as well as the exotic experiences, combine to make Africa the perfect spot for exploration and photoshoots.
#03 Rainbow Mountain
Story: Engagement Portraits Amid the Stunning Hues of Rainbow Mountain, Peru by Metrophoto
If climbing ain’t your thing, you can still scale a mountain or two. For some, Machu Picchu is a bucket list item, as is the magnificence of Rainbow Mountain. There’s nothing like taking in the grandeur of Mother Nature – all while capturing your love.
#04 Love Between the Lines
Story: Mind-blowing Bridal Portraits At Antelope Canyon, Arizona by Keda.Z Photography
There’s no preparing for the beauty of the Antelope Canyons in Arizona, USA. There really isn’t anything else like this in the world – the majestic structures inspiring awe with their narrow crevices, sharp angles, and rich orange hues.
#05 On the Road of Love
Road trips may not appear glamorous but they’re a real intimate way to get to know your partner. Being in a small space together for hours on end means you’ll either love each other more or learn to! Also, New Zealand’s untouched landscapes and natural beauty is unparalleled.
#06 (Rock) Climbing Towards Love
Story: Shooting Rock Climbers by Threebox Studio
It may not seem as obvious to you and me, but rock climbers are a romantic bunch – you’ll need to trust each other as you work your way through the routes and find your way to the top. In fact, many have likened marriage to rock climbing! If you and your beloved share this as a hobby, met through this hobby, or want to do something different – shed the suit and dress, strap on your harnesses, and climb!
#07 Scandinavian Stunner
Story: Dramatic Destination Bridal Portraits In Picturesque Norway by Sheerss Photography
Speaking of natural beauties, Scandinavia in the winter has the most beautiful terrain that’s straight out of a fairytale. A winter wonderland indeed, the experience is completed by the surprise sightings of such animals as reindeer and moose!
#08 Reach for the Stars
Story: Under The Northern Lights by Avior Pictures
Another exclusively Scandinavian experience, many a couple has dreamed of viewing the Aurora Borealis together. Even though it’s one of the more commonly photographed natural phenomena, nothing beats a real life viewing, especially in the arms of your husband- or wife-to-be.
#09 Lost in the Desert
Story: The Outback Desert Of Australia by Axioo
We’ve heard the jokes – a marriage is like one long Walkabout with the person you’ll be exchanging vows with. When it’s just the two of you in the middle of nowhere, you truly have no one else but each other. The Land Down Under is the perfect backdrop for bridal portraits, its endless outback and sprawling beaches a sight for sore eyes indeed.
#10 Heaven on Earth
Story: Untouched Beauty: Traditional Bridal Portraits in Lijiang and Shangri-La, China by Metrophoto
If heaven on Earth means being in the arms of the person you’re going to marry, why not capture your bridal portraits at Shangri-la in Lijiang, China? We don’t mean the luxury hotel chain, but rather, the actual place that has been described as heaven on Earth. This untouched corner of China is deeply underrated, from the colours and textures of the breathtaking terrain to the exotic animals and expansive skies.