Miami Courthouse Wedding Photography Guide (2026)

Courthouse weddings in Miami have become one of the most meaningful and stylish ways to get married. Whether you’re planning a simple legal ceremony, an elopement with just a few loved ones, or an intimate celebration after saying “I do,” a courthouse wedding allows couples to focus on what truly matters — the moment itself.

As a Miami intimate wedding and courthouse wedding photographer, I’ve photographed many courthouse ceremonies throughout South Florida, and they always have a unique energy: relaxed, emotional, and incredibly personal.

If you’re planning a courthouse wedding in Miami, here’s everything you need to know.

Where to Have a Courthouse Wedding in Miami

Most couples get legally married at:

• Miami-Dade County Courthouse (Downtown Miami)

• Coral Gables Courthouse

• Hialeah Courthouse

• Doral Courthouse

Each location offers civil ceremonies performed by a clerk or judge. Some couples choose to keep things simple inside the courthouse, while others treat it as the official ceremony and then head to a nearby scenic location for portraits.

Popular photo locations after courthouse ceremonies include:

• Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

• Brickell waterfront areas

• Miami Beach

• Matheson Hammock Park

• Tree-lined streets in Coral Gables

This allows you to turn a quick legal ceremony into a full, beautiful wedding experience.

Why You Should Hire a Photographer for a Courthouse Wedding

Many couples initially think a courthouse ceremony is too small to hire a photographer. In reality, these moments are often some of the most emotional and meaningful.

A courthouse wedding photographer ensures:

• Your vows and first kiss are documented professionally

• Family and couple portraits feel natural and guided

• You have timeless photos beyond phone snapshots

• The day feels intentional and special

Even with a simple ceremony, having professional photos allows you to relive the moment forever and share it with family and friends who couldn’t attend.

What Courthouse Wedding Photography Coverage Looks Like

Most courthouse wedding coverage in Miami is short and efficient while still capturing everything beautifully.

Typical coverage includes:

• Arrival and candid moments

• Ceremony coverage

• First kiss and exit

• Family photos outside courthouse

• Couple portraits nearby

• Optional second location portraits (beach, park, city)

Coverage can range anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on how much you want documented.

My approach is always relaxed and guided so nothing feels stiff or overly posed. I’ll direct you when needed but keep everything natural so the photos feel like you.

Best Time of Day for Courthouse Wedding Photos

If possible, late morning or golden hour produces the best lighting for portraits after your ceremony.

However, even midday ceremonies can look incredible with the right locations and direction. The key is having a photographer who knows how to work with Miami light and guide you quickly and efficiently.

Planning a Miami Courthouse Wedding?

If you’re planning a courthouse wedding or intimate ceremony in Miami or anywhere in South Florida, I’d love to document it in a way that feels natural, timeless, and true to you.

Stephen Luttinger Photography specializes in intimate weddings, courthouse ceremonies, and elopements with a bright, true-to-life style and relaxed approach so you can stay fully present and enjoy the moment.

Reach out to check availability and start planning your courthouse wedding photography.