How to find the ideal Destination Wedding Photographer.
Eduardo Paralizábal, 2025
As a professional destination wedding photographer, I’ve worked with countless couples from all over the world who chose to say “I do” in some of the most breathtaking spots in the Riviera Maya. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this:
Your photographer will be one of the most important decisions you make.
Not only will they be by your side for most of your wedding day, but they’ll also be responsible for preserving the memories of one of the biggest adventures of your life. Your photos are how you’ll relive the moments you were too excited to fully absorb: the laughter, the happy tears, the wild dance moves, the way your partner looked at you when you walked down the aisle.
That’s why choosing the right photographer goes far beyond just hiring someone with a camera.
Here are six non-negotiables to consider when choosing your destination wedding photographer (and why they matter):
You LOVE their work.
This seems obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing: you should feel something when you look at their photos. Their style, whether it’s documentary, editorial, cinematic, light and airy, or moody, should resonate with you. Because in the end, your wedding gallery will look like their portfolio.
When you love your photographer’s work, you’ll feel confident trusting their creative direction, and you’ll be excited to see what they capture.
You actually like them.
This isn’t just a vendor, it’s someone you’ll spend almost your entire wedding day with. From the getting ready moments to the last dance, your photographer will be there, documenting it all.
If you feel relaxed and connected with them, that energy will come through in your photos. You’ll feel more at ease in front of the camera, and the entire experience will feel more natural and fun, just like it should.
They’re willing (and experienced) to go wherever your story takes you.
Destination weddings require a special kind of flexibility. Whether you’re getting married on a remote beach, a cenote in the jungle, or a cliffside villa, your photographer needs to be someone who can handle travel logistics, adapt to new environments, and work under different lighting and weather conditions.
Make sure they have experience traveling, and are genuinely excited to join you on your adventure.
Eduardo Paralizábal, 2024
They understand the flow of a wedding day.
A great wedding photographer knows how to lead when needed and when to step back and let the moment unfold. They’ll guide you during portraits, help organize group photos quickly, and blend into the background during intimate or emotional moments like vows or speeches.
This kind of intuition only comes with experience, and it makes all the difference in how your day feels and flows.
They know how to work with different types of light, and how to make you feel confident.
Light is the soul of photography, and in tropical destinations like Mexico, the sun can be both your best friend and your biggest challenge.
An experienced photographer knows how to use natural light to create flattering, dynamic images no matter the time of day. They’ll also know how to position you so you look and feel your best, even if you’re camera-shy or not used to being photographed. (That’s totally normal, by the way!)
They’re not just capturing images, they’re telling your story.
Beautiful photos are important. But what’s even more powerful is a gallery that tells a story. One that lets you feel everything again, even years later.
That’s what great wedding photography does. It captures the details, the emotions, the big moments and the little ones you didn’t even realize were happening.
Let’s tell your story — beautifully, honestly, and with heart.
I would describe my photography style as a blend of documentary authenticity and editorial finesse. I live for the real, unscripted moments: the teary eyes, the stolen glances, the laughter you didn’t know I caught. But I also love the elegance and intention that comes with editorial detail. My goal is to create a visual story that feels true to you: natural, emotional, and stunning.
My passion for photography is deeply tied to my love for travel. In the past few years, I’ve had the opportunity to explore incredible places like Italy, Spain, Japan, Colombia, France, and the Netherlands. These journeys have shaped my perspective and taught me how to adapt quickly, move with intention, and appreciate the beauty in every culture.
While my home base is in Mexico, I’ve had the honor of working with couples from all over the world who choose the Riviera Maya as the backdrop for their love story. This international experience has allowed me to connect deeply with different traditions, expectations, and styles, something I bring with me to every wedding I photograph.
So whether you’re dreaming of a ceremony on a quiet beach in Tulum, an intimate elopement in the mountains, or a celebration in a castle in Europe: I’m ready to meet you there.
Let’s make magic together. 💫
