Elopement Videography at Lago di Braies: A Cinematic Love Story

An Intimate Alpine Elopement: Abhaya & Jake’s Italian Adventure

As an elopement videographer, few locations offer the cinematic grandeur and emotional intimacy of Lago di Braies, nestled in the heart of the Italian Dolomites. When Abhaya and Jake, an adventurous couple from Australia, reached out to document their elopement, I knew it would be something truly special. With their deep love for the mountains and a desire to do things their own way, they chose Lago di Braies for its serene beauty, glassy turquoise waters, and dramatic alpine backdrop.

Lago di Braies | Pragser Wildsee

Why Lago di Braies?

For couples like Abhaya and Jake, the appeal of eloping isn’t just about skipping tradition — it’s about choosing a meaningful, adventurous, and personal experience. They were drawn to Lago di Braies not only for its stunning visuals but also for the spiritual connection they feel in the mountains. Their day was about being present, soaking in the beauty of nature, and celebrating with their closest friends.

The Elopement Day: From Sunrise to Seceda

Date: June 24, 2025
Weather: Clear skies, ideal for filming
Guest List: Closest friends + celebrant Natalie from Passion Ceremonies
Photographer: Emma Jane Photography

The Schedule:

• 7:15 AM: Arrival at Lago di Braies car park
• 7:30 AM: First look followed by couple portraits around the lake
• 8:00 AM: Private hire of the iconic boathouse deck for the ceremony
  • Personal vows, ring exchange, celebrant-led service, and a champagne celebration
  • Boat ride and dock footage
• 9:30 AM: Depart for Seceda Mountain
• 11:00 AM: Gondola ascent and mountain hike
• 12:30 PM: Break at Refugio for refreshment
• 2:00 PM: Wrap-up

This thoughtful schedule ensured a calm, immersive day while maximising natural light and cinematic backdrops.

Technical Setup & Challenges: Behind the Scenes

Shooting at Lago di Braies and Seceda comes with its challenges — from crowds to altitude. Here’s how I tackled them:

• Crowds & Timing: The boathouse deck is open to the public, but the couple secured a private slot from 7–8:30 AM. We filmed the ceremony at 8 AM, though light was slightly harsh by then. The ideal time for soft, even lighting would be around 7 AM.
• Drone Restrictions: Lago di Braies has a nearby hotel where drones are prohibited. I obtained permission from the deck owners to fly mine briefly, capturing sweeping aerial shots.
• Deck Movement: Since the deck floats, placing a tripod wasn’t an option. I stationed tripods on the stationary platform (30 meters back) and used long focal lengths (85mm & 150mm). I operated the gimbal on the main deck for stable closeups.
• Altitude at Seceda: Filming at 2500m posed a physical challenge due to thinner air, but thanks to regular training (10K runs daily), I managed the hike with gear in tow.

My Gear for the Day

• Main Camera: Sony A7RV on a gimbal
• Second Camera: Sony A7S III
• Third Camera: Sony A7 III
• Audio:
  • Groom: Zoom F2-BT (primary) & Sony TX660 (backup)
  • Celebrant: Sony TX660

This three-camera, multi-angle setup ensured we captured every tear, vow, and laugh in cinematic quality.

Emotional Highlights

One of the most unforgettable moments came during the couple’s first look — Jake was visibly emotional, and we captured every heartfelt expression. Their personal vows were equally touching, adding powerful narrative layers to the final film.

Final Video Delivery

• Full Ceremony Film
• 4-Minute Highlight Film
• 1-Minute Instagram Teaser

Editing Style: Elegant, cinematic pacing with slow motion, B-roll of the lake and mountains, and drone footage to elevate the grandeur.

Watch the Highlight Video: https://vimeo.com/1099800468

Advice for Future Couples Considering Lago di Braies

• Best Time: June and October (optimal light, fewer crowds)
• Plan Early: Secure boathouse hire for exclusive access
• Hire Professionals: Work with experienced vendors familiar with alpine terrain and legalities
• Be Fit: Especially if hiking to Seceda, a basic fitness level is essential

Why Elopement Videography Matters

Your wedding day passes in a flash, especially when it’s an adventure. Elopement videography doesn’t just document the day — it tells your story. It captures the emotions, the movement, the voice cracks during vows, and the unscripted magic of the mountains.

If you’re looking for an elopement videographer who combines cinematic storytelling with real-world mountain experience, I’d be honoured to help you craft something unforgettable.

Ready to create your own cinematic elopement? Get in touch