If you're looking for a Miami courthouse wedding photographer, you're in the right place. Courthouse weddings and elopements are some of my favorite days to photograph: small, intimate and all about the two of you. I've photographed couples like Eymi & Sebastian on the steps of downtown Miami's historic courthouse.
As a Miami wedding photographer who loves small, intimate days, courthouse weddings are some of my favorite stories to tell. See my courthouse elopement collections too.
This guide covers how courthouse weddings work in Miami today, my favorite photo spots downtown, tips for your day and answers to the questions couples ask me most.
How to Get Married at the Courthouse in Miami
The iconic Miami-Dade County Courthouse at 73 W Flagler Street was built between 1925 and 1928 in the Classical Revival style and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It has been closed since 2021 over structural safety concerns and is awaiting redevelopment, so ceremonies don't happen inside it right now.
Instead, a deputy clerk performs ceremonies by appointment at the Clerk's Central Marriage License Bureau at 601 NW 1st Court, Suite 1900, and other Clerk locations. Here's the basic process, based on the Miami-Dade Clerk's current guidelines:
Apply for your marriage license together, in person, with valid ID. The license is valid for 60 days.
Plan around the waiting period. Florida residents wait 3 days after applying unless they complete a registered premarital course.
Book your ceremony appointment with the Clerk. Couples can bring guests, flowers and a photographer.
Plan your photos. Most of my courthouse couples do their ceremony, then head downtown for portraits.
Rules and fees change, so always confirm the details with the Clerk before your date.
The Best Courthouse Wedding Photo Spots in Downtown Miami
1. The Columns and Steps
Even with the building closed, the historic courthouse's grand columns and wide steps are still one of the most classic backdrops in Miami. Timeless, symmetrical and perfect for black and white.
2. Downtown Streets and a Vintage Car
Downtown Miami has amazing texture, and adding a vintage car turns a courthouse wedding into something that feels straight out of a movie.
3. Downtown After Dark
If your timeline allows, staying out after sunset for a few flash portraits gives you a completely different, editorial look.
Tips for Your Miami Courthouse Wedding Photos
Book your ceremony early. Appointment times fill up, especially around holidays and popular dates.
Plan 1 to 2 hours for photos. That gives us time for portraits downtown without rushing.
Think about light. Early morning or the last hour before sunset is softer and keeps you out of the harsh midday sun.
Bring a second look or a fun prop. A vintage car, a bouquet or a second outfit makes your gallery feel like a full wedding.
Keep it small and respectful. Downtown is busy, so we keep sessions quick and never block anyone coming and going.
Real Miami Courthouse Weddings
Zeidy & Sandy's courthouse elopement: a classic, intimate elopement downtown with their closest family and friends.
Eymi & Sebastian's courthouse session: modern and chic, with a vintage car and night flash portraits.
Want more Miami ideas? See my Miami engagement photo locations, or browse all of my Miami venue guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you still get married at the historic Miami-Dade County Courthouse?
The historic courthouse at 73 W Flagler Street has been closed since 2021 over structural safety concerns and is awaiting redevelopment. Today, the Miami-Dade Clerk performs marriage ceremonies by appointment at the Central Marriage License Bureau (601 NW 1st Court, Suite 1900) and other Clerk locations. Check the Clerk's marriage page for the latest.
How much does a courthouse wedding cost in Miami?
The Miami-Dade Clerk currently lists a $30 ceremony fee and an $86 marriage license fee, or $61 if you complete a premarital course. Fees can change, so confirm with the Clerk before your date.
Is there a waiting period to get married in Florida?
Florida residents have a 3-day waiting period after applying for a marriage license unless they complete a registered premarital course of at least 4 hours. Out-of-state couples are generally exempt. Both of you need to apply in person with valid ID, and the license is valid for 60 days.
Can I bring a photographer to my Miami courthouse wedding?
Yes. The Clerk says couples can bring guests, flowers and a photographer to their ceremony.
Where should we take photos after a Miami courthouse wedding?
My favorite spots are the classic columns and steps of downtown Miami's historic courthouse, the surrounding downtown streets, and a vintage getaway car if you want something extra special. We can also head to a second location like the Biltmore Hotel or Vizcaya.
How much does a Miami courthouse elopement photographer cost?
My courthouse elopements are $2,000 for 90 minutes or $3,000 for 3 hours. See both collections here, or send me your date.
Book Your Miami Courthouse Wedding Photographer
If you're planning a courthouse wedding or elopement in Miami, I'd love to hear about it. My courthouse elopement collections start at $2,000, and I'm now booking 2027 and 2028 dates. Start your inquiry here, or read my wedding photography FAQ first.