Let’s face it. Aside from the amazing tan, beautiful wedding band, endless memories, and soon-to-be spouse, the only other thing that you just can’t wait to bring back from your destination wedding is your photography! More than half of all destination wedding couples hire a professional photographer for their big day. Wondering where to start with the big questions? Or simply looking for the best big picture checklist for your photography questions? Look no further, we have 13 of the best tips for destination wedding photography right here.
1. Be sure to be yourself
These are the photos you will show everyone after all, make sure that the poses, locations, and emotions accurately represent you as a couple.
{ Photo by Defining 78 at Royalton Blue Waters }
2. Don’t be caught up on the price
Your wedding is an investment. Even if you are having a destination wedding to cut back on overall costs, photography is the one area where you should be sure to invest in. Although we’d normally say “you get what you pay for”, we suggest doing thorough research on past client reviews, turnaround times, quality of the images, and the professional training and experience of the photographer.
{ Photo by Tim Fleenor Photography at Hyatt Zilara Cancun }
3. Don’t overdo your hair and makeup
If you want to recognize yourself, be sure to have your hair and makeup be a natural, flattering, representation of who you are. We are firm believers in a hair and makeup trial run for your wedding just to be sure you’ll look your best on the big day.
{ Photo by Savanah Loftus Photography at Finest Playa Mujeres }
4. Communication is KEY
Regardless of who you use as your photographer or where you get married, communication is critical. Never assume a photographer knows what you want. Be sure to relay information in multiple ways, phone calls, emails, and even hand written notes. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Be as clear and precise as you can.
{ Photo by Defining 78 at Royalton Blue Waters }
5. Make a list
To piggyback on communication, we suggest making lists. Have a list of the ceremony shots, detail shots, getting ready, couple shots, family portraits, and don’t forget your friends who may not be in the bridal party!
{ Photo by Diana Flores Photography at Velas Vallarta }
6. Think Outside the Box
Although you may be over the whole wedding planning process, creativity works well when it comes to your photography choices. You may be tempted to take the easy route and hire the suggested vendor from the resort, but do consider what you want the most. Would it be the same cost, or even less to bring your own photographer with you from home? What additional perks and values do you receive by going this route? Remember, photography is an investment.
{ Photo by Diana Flores Photography at Velas Vallarta }
7. Know when to say “NO”
Every bride has someone in their family, or circle of friends who “does photography for a hobby” or “has a really great camera”. That’s nice, and thoughtful, but should you really settle? We know you deserve the best of the best on your big day, so our answer is no. The pictures of your wedding day are the only thing that will last forever and that you get to take back home with you. It takes more than a nice camera to capture the best moments of your day.
{ Photo by Be Photography at RIU Ocho Rios }
8. Connect with your photographer
Get to know your photographer. Most importantly, be vulnerable and open up to them. The better they know you, and the more they can see and understand your special love, the easier it will be for them to capture the best shots of you two on your wedding day.
{ Photo by Be Photography at Majestic Colonial }
9. Sometimes more is not less
One of the most common feedback statements we receive from brides is how happy they are that they decided to have two photographers instead of one. As you would imagine, you receive more images. It's almost as if you have someone at two different places at once. A photography team should be bonded well enough to be in sync in order to capture similar feels and artistic points of view. Best of all, having multiple photographers allows for someone to capture the moments you miss. For example, wouldn’t it be fun to know what the other half of the bridal party was up to the entire time you were getting ready?
{ Photo by Be Photography at Majestic Colonial }
10. Be Unique
Trust us; every photographer (hobbyist or professional) knows that you want pictures on the beach. It’s a given when you’re in destination. We totally suggest that you scope out the resort and surrounding areas to find locations that will be unique to you!
{ Photo by Be Photography at Hawpark Gardens }
11. Consider Time of Day
Your wedding schedule will be based on when your ceremony time is. Keep in mind, sunlight is a huge factor that will impact your photography. Be sure to talk with your professional photographer about what type of wedding day timeline you want, as well as when the sunset time is.
{ Photo by Diana Flores Photography at Velas Vallarta }
12. Budget Extra Time
Put a few brief breaks in your wedding timeline that will allow you to freshen up. Have some touch up makeup available to quick grab. Thanks to the natural elements of the Caribbean, extra bobby pins, deodorant, and oil blotting wipes aren’t a bad idea either.
{ Photo by Savanah Loftus Photography by Finest Playa Mujeres }
13. Have Fun
Yes, your wedding day photography is important, we will never tell you otherwise. However, your wedding day memories and experiences with your guests can never be replaced. Don’t overthink your photography details. Once you are rockin’ the dress and look like the goddess you are, everything will feel natural and perfect. Don’t forget to say hello to all of your loved ones, and sneak in as many kisses as Mr. & Mrs.!
{ Photo by Seasons Photo Studio at Beloved Playa Mujeres }
