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Rite of Light



About Rite of Light

Samantha Thornton

Filmmaker & Director of Photography

Rite of Light is an elopement film company with one mission: to create full-sensory art that honors your depth, authenticity and love. With nearly 20 years in documentary, editorial and wedding film storytelling, I will help you shape the story that will act as visual medicine for your relationship for years to come. I only film elopements, and I do so with reverence for the courageous choice you're making as a couple. Filming in Florida, the Southeast and beyond.

I've filmed across the globe from Africa to Iceland, from the urban scapes of Chicago to the beaches of Florida, but I bring more than experience and technical skill to your story. I hold sacred space with you, helping channel your souls' energy into a film that truly represents you and the future that you're creating together. If you're into energy, following a moon calendar and reading oracle cards, we're going to get along great!


Services

Services

  • 16mm Films
  • Drone Coverage
  • Engagement Reel
  • Extra Hours
  • Next-day Editing

Deliverables

  • Highlight reel
  • Long feature
  • Raw footage
  • Short feature
  • Social media versions
  • Trailer

Reviews

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5.0 out of 5

1 review

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  • Gifted artist and spiritual guide

    •Verified review
    •Deborah S.•Sep 9, 2025

    Sam was the most incredible videographer I could have asked for my wedding day. Not only did she capture our day and create a beautiful keepsake but she brought a grounding energy and spiritual guide that I didn’t know I needed. I went into my wedding day caught up in the logistics and planning. It felt very much like a life event to put a check in the box and throw a party but Sam helped me see the deeply sacred part of your wedding day. She helped me to slow down, reflect on the significance and beauty of this day. She helped remind me that it was more than a party, more than a legal ceremony and some pretty rings. She reminded me of the sacred vows and union. The beauty of choosing another human to love fully and do life with. The gift of joining two paths, two stories, into one. It has been six years since my husband and I were married and I still can not watch my wedding video without tears down my face. The raw moments, the love, the deep joy in the clips she pieced together still leaves me speeches. When I feel down I watch the video and am reminded of my own love story I am so lucky to be living. Since our wedding day I have kept in contact with Sam and she has been a pivotal part of my spiritual awakening. She has encouraged me to answer the questions my soul already knew, pushed me to dig into the shadows and empowered me to stand fully in my power and let my voice roar. To me Sam is a healer, a gifted artist and a true friend I feel so lucky to have to have met in this life.