French Alps Wedding Photographer

“Tying the Knot with a Ski Instructor Wedding Photographer”

Welcome to my world of French Alps wedding photography

I’m Paul Keppel, I’ve carved a niche for myself capturing the essence of love against some of the most breathtaking backdrops Europe has to offer. Having photographed 8 weddings in Zermatt & two in the French Alps, my journey from the powdered slopes of Verbier as a ski and snowboard instructor to the lush landscapes of Cornwall as a wedding photographer has been nothing short of extraordinary. This unique blend of experiences not only enriches my life but also the memories I capture.

The French Alps, much like their Swiss counterparts, promise a wedding experience that is as unparalleled as it is breathtaking. Whether it’s the rustic charm of Les Arcs or the expansive beauty of the Three Vallees, each wedding here is a testament to love’s grandeur set against nature’s masterpiece.

Additionally, I’ve dedicated three winters to exploring Les Deux Alpes, gaining a deep familiarity with not only this enchanting resort but also its neighbouring areas, including the captivating Alpe d’Huez and the forest-fringed slopes of Serre Chevalier. My knowledge of the region is further enriched by numerous holidays spent in Les Gets/Morzine, where I’ve had the pleasure of immersing myself in their distinct alpine charm.

wedding ski instructor

The Magic of a French Alps Wedding

Love on the Lifts

The French Alps offer an unparalleled setting for weddings, where the grandeur of towering peaks meets the delicate beauty of alpine flora. This region, famed for its dramatic landscapes, provides a romantic ambience that is both majestic and intimately beautiful. Imagine exchanging vows with the awe-inspiring backdrop of rugged mountains, serene lakes, and verdant valleys that stretch as far as the eye can see. The natural beauty of the French Alps creates a serene and enchanting atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a wedding location that combines elegance with the raw beauty of nature. The interplay of light and landscape here paints every moment in hues of unforgettable splendour, making it a dream setting for photographers and couples alike. Whether it’s a secluded chalet, a historic mountain lodge, or an open meadow under the expanse of the alpine sky, the French Alps offer a canvas of endless possibilities for your special day.

The allure of the French Alps as a wedding destination is magnified by the distinct beauty each season brings. Winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, where snow-capped peaks and frost-laden trees provide a fairy-tale setting for nuptials. The crisp air and sparkling snow create a magical atmosphere, making winter weddings here nothing short of enchanting. As the snow melts and spring awakens, the Alps burst into life, with blooming wildflowers and verdant greens offering a vibrant backdrop for weddings. Summer brings warmth and an explosion of colours, with long days and golden sunsets painting every ceremony in a soft, romantic light. The cool, crisp air of autumn wraps the mountains in hues of red, orange, and gold, offering a cosy and picturesque setting for exchanging vows. Each season in the French Alps not only offers a unique backdrop but also inspires distinct themes and moods for weddings, from a winter wonderland to a summer alpine retreat, making every celebration uniquely memorable.

French Alps Wedding Journey

How it works

Embarking on the journey of capturing your French Alps wedding is a straightforward and enjoyable experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to how we collaborate to make your moment truly unforgettable. Each step of this journey is designed to be smooth and enjoyable, ensuring your proposal memories are captured perfectly in Cornwall:

01

Initial
Consultation

Our journey starts with your story. In our initial chat, we’ll discuss your vision, preferred locations, and any special touches you desire. This is where your dream wedding begins to take shape

02

Easy
Booking

Securing your date is simple. With a streamlined booking process, I ensure all the details are handled efficiently, leaving you to enjoy the anticipation of your big day

03

The
Shoot

On the wedding day, I discreetly capture the magic of your moment against the stunning backdrop of the mountains. Expect natural, candid photos that reflect the true emotion and beauty of your wedding.

04

Fast Photo
Delivery

Your photos arrive quickly, allowing you to revisit and share the joy of your special day. I ensure a swift turnaround, delivering a collection of images that beautifully narrate your ski wedding story.

Discover France’s Best Ski Wedding Locations

Mountain Matrimony Venues

Each of these locations holds its own charm and story, ready to be a part of your unique wedding narrative. Linking these to my blog posts will give you a deeper insight into why they are my top choices for your winter wedding in France.

Wedding in Les Arcs

Experience the enchanting allure of a wedding in Les Arcs, where the majestic French Alps provide a breathtaking backdrop for your special day. Imagine saying “I do” amidst snow-capped peaks and pristine alpine landscapes.

Aiguille Rouge: Stand at the pinnacle of Les Arcs, offering panoramic views of the Alps, ideal for an awe-inspiring ceremony.
Chapelle Saint-Grat: A charming chapel nestled in the mountains, perfect for an intimate and serene wedding setting.
Arc 1950: A picturesque village with stunning architecture and no cars at this level, offering a fairy-tale ambience for your celebration.

Les 3 Vallées

Discover the unparalleled beauty of a wedding in Les 3 Vallées, the world’s largest ski area, where the splendour of the French Alps enhances the magic of your nuptial celebration. Envision exchanging vows with the majestic mountains as witnesses to your love.

Val Thorens: Nestled at the highest point of Les 3 Vallées, it offers spectacular mountain vistas, making it a breathtaking venue for your alpine wedding.
Méribel: Renowned for its traditional wooden chalet-style architecture, Méribel provides a cosy and charming setting for your ceremony amidst the beauty of nature.
Courchevel: Known for its luxury and elegance, Courchevel boasts exquisite venues that blend upscale sophistication with the rustic charm of the Alps.

Ski-related weddings not in France

Celebrate your union in Zermatt, where the iconic Matterhorn frames every moment, offering an unforgettable setting for your wedding. This car-free village combines Swiss charm with breathtaking natural beauty, providing an idyllic backdrop for your vows.

Gornergrat: With the Matterhorn in full view, Gornergrat offers an awe-inspiring location for your ceremony, set against a panorama of Alpine peaks.
Riffelberg Chapel: A quaint and historic chapel located amidst the mountains, perfect for those seeking a traditional yet picturesque wedding setting.
Klein Matterhorn: The highest cable car station in Europe, presenting a unique and spectacular venue for adventurous couples looking to tie the knot above the clouds.

Client Testimonials

Why I should be your Top Choice

As the French Alps’ wedding photographer, the feedback I receive from couples transcends mere reviews; it symbolizes the deep trust placed in my hands to immortalize their most cherished moments. Every glowing testimonial is a mirror to the happiness and fulfilment of the couples I’ve been honoured to work with. Dive into the experiences shared by these couples and see for yourself why I am the preferred choice for those seeking to capture the essence of their wedding in the breathtaking backdrop of the French Alps.

James & Robyn

Ed & Vikki

Larissa & Marc

Jac & Bessie

“Bottom line: Paul is an amazing photographer. He did such a fantastic job capturing all of our special moments and emotions on our big wedding weekend in Zermatt, Switzerland in February 2022. Paul’s experience, passion for photography, and easy-going attitude made working with him an absolute pleasure.
He was also very quick in turning around all the highly anticipated photos, which turned out beautifully. We bought a photo album and framed photo – and we are very happy with the outcome. Paul comes highly recommended”

“WoW! The photographs tell the story of the day just perfectly I have looked at them quite a few times now, and a massive smile is brought to my face every time! The day becomes a bit of a blur when your in it, so it is so great to have the photographs to be able to remember all of the special moments. (Viki and I had forgotten all about the photographs outside ZumSee! – the tractor one is so funny!)
I am very proud of all of us for managing to ski (fairly gracefully) in our wedding attire! I just love the shot of Viki and I skiing along hand in hand oh and the snowball in the face is one for the wedding album I think!.”

“Paul is absolutely incredible!!! We used him for our wedding and engagement photos and we could not be happier with the results. He is professional, communicative, flexible, easy to work with, and not to mention, a very skilled photographer.
Not having a wedding planner wasn’t an issue for us, because Paul has photographed so many weddings that he knew all the little transitions and precious moments to capture. We are forever grateful for the beautiful pictures that we now have to treasure for years to come that allow us to relive the best day of our lives.
THANK YOU, PAUL!! You are truly one of a kind and we feel so blessed to have found you..”

We had the pleasure of having Paul capture our white winter wedding in the Alps this January, and we couldn’t be more delighted with the results.

Despite the challenges of shooting during January’s frosty embrace, Paul exceeded our expectations in every way. His ability to navigate the unique lighting conditions and embrace the snowy landscape resulted in photos that were nothing short of magical.

From the intimate moments shared during our snowy ceremony to the joyous festivities that followed, Paul expertly captured every detail with warmth and precision. Their professionalism and calming presence made the entire experience a joy, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the magic of the day.

We are immensely grateful to Paul for their talent, dedication, and impeccable service. They have gifted us with memories that will last a lifetime, and we wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone seeking extraordinary wedding photography in the Alps.

Prepare for Your Perfect Proposal

5 Tips for a Ski Wedding in the French Alps

Embarking on the journey to plan a wedding in the French Alps is both thrilling and filled with anticipation, especially with the unique allure of alpine nuptials. To ensure every aspect of your mountainous ceremony is as magical as you’ve dreamed, detailed planning is key. From choosing the ideal picturesque backdrop to considering the finer details, every element plays a role in creating an unforgettable experience.

Below are my top recommendations to aid in your planning, drawn from my experience as a renowned French Alps wedding photographer. I’ll provide you with essential insights and practical advice for orchestrating a flawless wedding set against the breathtaking vistas of the French Alps.

elopement wedding at the Zermatterhof

Choose the Right Season

Each season in the French Alps offers a unique ambience and setting for your wedding. Winter provides a snowy fairytale landscape, perfect for cosy, intimate gatherings. Spring and summer reveal lush greenery and blooming flowers, offering a vibrant backdrop and milder weather for outdoor ceremonies. Autumn wraps the Alps in warm colours, creating a romantic and serene setting. Consider what each season has to offer and how it aligns with your wedding vision.

Select a Venue That Reflects Your Style

The French Alps are home to a variety of venues, from luxurious mountain resorts to charming alpine chalets and rustic barns. Decide on a venue that not only offers stunning views but also suits your style and can accommodate your guests comfortably. Consider accessibility for guests, especially if you’re planning a winter wedding when some areas may be harder to reach.

Drive out

If the logistics allow, consider making a road trip out of your journey to the French Alps. For those with access to a large car or van, driving to your wedding destination can be an adventurous and practical choice. Wedding dresses, often bulky and delicate, can be difficult to transport by plane. By driving, you’ll have the flexibility to bring along more of your wedding decorations, attire, and personal items, helping you to further personalize your special day.

Plus, the journey itself can be a memorable part of your wedding experience, allowing you to explore and stop off at beautiful locations along the way. This option not only offers convenience but also adds an element of adventure to your wedding planning.

Dress to Impress

What you wear is an extension of this special moment. Dress in a way that reflects your personal style and the proposal’s setting. Whether it’s coordinating colours or choosing outfits that complement Cornwall’s natural beauty, your attire plays a significant role in the aesthetic of your photos

Capture the Beauty

Hire a wedding photographer who specializes in alpine weddings and is familiar with the unique lighting and landscapes of the French Alps. A professional with good skiing ability like myself can take you to all the best spots for breathtaking photos and can capture the essence of your special day against the stunning alpine backdrop.

Ski Wedding Photography FAQ

Your Questions, My Answers

Navigating the path to your perfect wedding can raise a number of questions. To assist you, I’ve put together a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions that couples often have about organising a ski wedding in the French Alps. This section aims to provide you with essential information, covering everything from session planning to the details of the day itself. Should you find that your specific concerns aren’t addressed here, or if you’re seeking more tailored guidance, please feel free to get in touch. My goal is to make your experience as smooth and memorable as possible.

What are the best ski resorts in the French Alps for a wedding?

The French Alps offer a breathtaking backdrop for a wedding, with several top ski resorts that stand out for such a special occasion. Courchevel and Méribel, both part of the vast Les Trois Vallées, are renowned for their luxury and picturesque settings, making them perfect for an unforgettable wedding, I’ve photographed in a little quaint village only a ski lift away from Val Theron & Meribel.

Chamonix Mont-Blanc, with its legendary peaks and vibrant town, offers a mix of adventure and sophistication. Val d’Isère combines high-quality skiing with charming village aesthetics, ideal for a romantic and exhilarating wedding day. Each of these resorts boasts unique characteristics, from luxury accommodations to stunning alpine views, ensuring your wedding will be nothing short of magical.

Most couples will have ties to a curtain ski resort that they visit every year, and more than happy to photograph in new places and will do loads of research to help capture the best images.

HWhat unique elements can you add to a ski wedding to make it truly unforgettable?

Leveraging my 15 years of teaching skiing and snowboarding, alongside photographing about 300 weddings, I bring a unique blend of adventure and expertise to your ski wedding. My comfort in navigating both on and off-piste terrain means we’re not confined to the usual spots; we can venture away from the crowds to capture your special moments against the stunning, untouched backdrops of the French Alps. My experience enables me to find those hidden gems across the mountain, offering breathtaking views and unique settings for your wedding photos.

Furthermore, having been part of so many couples’ special days, I understand the importance of personal touches. I aim to weave your love story into the narrative of your photos, ensuring that each picture reflects your personality and the essence of your relationship. Whether it’s an intimate ceremony on a secluded mountaintop or capturing the exhilarating moment of skiing down the slopes after saying your vows, I’m here to create an unforgettable experience that’s as adventurous and unique as your love story.

What contingency plans do you have in place in case of bad weather?

For weddings with guests, where timing and coordination are key, we embrace whatever weather comes our way. If your heart is set on an outdoor ceremony and it happens to snow, it can turn into a breathtaking winter wonderland scene, making your special day even more magical. However, should the weather be less than ideal, such as rain at higher elevations, I always have a backup plan ready. This ensures that, regardless of the conditions, your day remains beautiful and memorable.

When it comes to elopements, we have a bit more flexibility to work with the weather rather than against it. Since I typically arrive more than a day before the event, we can adjust our plans based on short-term forecasts. This flexibility allows us to choose the best day weather-wise, ensuring your elopement is as perfect as you’ve dreamed, without the stress of unpredictable elements.

How far in advance should we book our ski wedding?

Generally most couples fir a ski wedding book 9-12 months before the wedding day. This advanced planning isn’t just about securing your preferred date; it’s also about logistics and cost-efficiency. The nature of ski weddings, often involving flights, transfers, and accommodation, means that early booking can significantly impact the overall flexibility and cost.

By scheduling well ahead, you allow me more leeway to arrange travel and stay options that are not only convenient but also more budget-friendly. While I do accept bookings closer to the date, and many couples plan their ski weddings within months, early booking ensures you get the best of everything – from your dream venue to the most stunning photography settings, all while keeping costs in check.

I have taken a booking 3 weeks before the day so if possible I can accommodate.

How do you handle photography in snowy and bright conditions to ensure high-quality wedding photos?

Photographing in snowy and bright conditions is second nature to me, thanks to my extensive experience and the high-end equipment I utilize. These unique lighting conditions, while challenging for some, provide an opportunity for me to capture the magical, ethereal quality of your ski wedding.

My expertise ensures that each photo balances the brightness of the snow with the warmth of the moment, creating stunning, high-quality images that you’ll cherish forever. So, rest assured, the snow’s natural glow and the vibrant alpine light will only enhance the beauty of your wedding photos.

How long does a typically stay at a ski wedding?

Typically, for a wedding, I’m on-site for about 10 hours, capturing all the key moments from start to finish. However, ski weddings are a bit different for me. Given the unique atmosphere and breathtaking settings, I don’t strictly adhere to a time limit. My priority is to capture every memorable moment, especially the vibrant energy of dance floor celebrations. I find much more joy in shooting those awesome, spontaneous moments than sticking to a set schedule. So, rest assured, I’ll be there to capture the magic of your day, from the first lift up the mountain to the last dance, without watching the clock.

Are there any off-peak times for a ski wedding that could provide a more intimate setting or better value?

For those looking to enjoy a more intimate setting and potentially better value for their ski wedding, timing is everything. I recommend planning your special day outside of the school holiday periods, which include Christmas/New Year and the February half-term. These times tend to see the slopes at their busiest. While Easter falls into a quieter period, it’s worth noting that it’s also springtime, meaning the weather can be warmer and the snow conditions more variable.

However, it’s not uncommon to experience some fantastic powder days even in April. So, if your heart is set on skiing up the mountain for your wedding, choosing a date outside of these peak times can offer both the serenity and the scenic backdrop you’re dreaming of, with the added benefit of potentially more favourable rates.

Can I ski in my wedding dress & suit?

Absolutely, skiing in your wedding attire is not only possible but also makes for incredibly stunning photos! For grooms, I recommend wearing thermals under your trousers and shirt to stay warm, and we can always bring along a jacket for those moments in between runs to ensure you’re comfortable.

For brides, you can easily wear your ski trousers under your dress; if they’re white, that’s a perfect match, but any colour works fine as it’s not typically visible. To keep warm and maintain the aesthetic, consider a stylish white jacket or a fur bolero on top. These options not only look fabulous in photos but also keep you cosy while you make those memorable runs down the mountain in your wedding dress and suit.

How soon after the wedding will we receive our photos?

After your wedding, I understand the excitement to see the captured moments, and I strive to deliver them to you as promptly as possible. Typically, regardless of where the wedding takes place, you can expect to receive a few “sneak peeks” — a handful of edited images from your special day — shortly after.

While my contract outlines a 4-6 week period for delivering the full edited online gallery, the advantage of most ski weddings occurring in the winter is that it’s a quieter season for my UK weddings. This often allows me to provide you with your complete gallery within just a week or two, letting you relive those magical moments sooner than you might expect.

What are your rates for a a french Alps wedding?

I provide tailored quotes rather than a one-size-fits-all rate. The costs can vary significantly, especially in renowned locations like Zermatt or Courchevel, known for their exclusivity. To keep my services as accessible as possible, I opt for more affordable accommodations, such as a B&B down the mountain, rather than staying at high-end hotels.

For a more accurate estimate, I recommend getting in touch directly. This allows me to quickly check the current rates for flights and accommodations in your chosen area. The quote I provide will encompass all necessary expenses to ensure a seamless experience, including my travel to the location, fuel, airport parking, flights, transfers, accommodation, lift pass, and ski hire (though I bring my own boots), as well as my sustenance during the stay.

Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further information. I’m here to make your French Alps wedding photography experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible!

Book Your Ski Wedding

Crafting Your Unforgettable Moment

Ready to capture the magic of your French Alps wedding photography? Booking with me is straightforward and ensures your special moment is immortalised in beautiful photographs. From breathtaking beach backdrops to historic castles, I’m here to turn your proposal vision into reality. Contact me now to book your session and let’s start crafting those once-in-a-lifetime memories!