Jason & Holly brought us on board to capture their epic Cozumel wedding, and let me tell you, it was one for the books! We’re wedding photographers, and this time we found ourselves in paradise, right in front of Playa del Carmen. These two lovebirds went for a chill 5-hour photo shoot. The big day went down in March, and it was as gorgeous as the Caribbean sunset.
We kicked things off with Jason, who was getting all spiffed up at the Buccanos at Night spot, and let me tell you, he was looking sharp! Meanwhile, Holly was in full-on pre-wedding mode over at the Shii Fu area, getting ready to steal the show. She was an absolute vision.
When it was time to say their “I do’s,” we all gathered on the powdery white sands of Cozumel’s beach, right in front of the Buccanos Beach Club.
Then came the reception and dinner, and it was a blast. Buccanos at Night terrace was transformed into this magical fairy tale setting. Jason, Holly, and their crew sure knew how to throw a party. We couldn’t help but snap away, capturing all the smiles, laughter, and heartfelt moments. So, here you have it, folks, the cream of the crop from Jason & Holly’s incredible wedding day in Cozumel. These are the memories that will last a lifetime. Cheers to love and good times!
If you’re looking for a specialist Playa del Carmen wedding photographer, click here to see more of our work and get inspired for your big day!
Wedding Photographer FAQ’S
Can I bring my own external photographer to Buccanos Cozumel?
Yes! You are absolutely welcome to bring me in as an outside vendor. Unlike strict all-inclusive resorts, Buccanos is a private beach club venue that is generally very vendor-friendly. While there may be a standard vendor meal requirement or a minor external fee depending on your specific contract, I am already familiar with their policies and the team. I handle all the coordination regarding my arrival to the island and the venue to ensure a seamless experience on your big day.
What are the best locations for wedding photos at the venue?
Buccanos offers a unique mix of rustic elegance and natural beauty. I know exactly where to take you for the most stunning backdrops, from the dramatic rocky ironshore coastline to the iconic oceanfront platform. Whether it’s the stylish architecture of the main palapa, the vibrant bougainvillea gardens, or the pier overlooking the turquoise water, I know where the hidden gems are. This ensures we get a huge variety of looks within the intimate venue space without wasting your precious time.
Does the venue package include photography services?
Buccanos is primarily a wedding venue and beach club, so while they may have a list of preferred local vendors, they generally do not include photography in their standard rental packages. My clients prefer hiring me independently to ensure full-day coverage—capturing everything from your getting-ready moments at your hotel to the late-night reception party at the club. When you work with me, I guarantee a consistent artistic style and a personal connection that matches the chic, boutique vibe of this venue.
How do we handle moving around for photos at the venue?
One of the best features of Buccanos is its intimacy; unlike sprawling resorts, you won’t need a golf cart to get around. However, the terrain includes sandy areas and rocky shores. I prioritize your comfort by guiding you through the most accessible paths for your heels and dress. My experience with the layout allows us to move quickly from the ceremony terrace to the water’s edge, maximizing your time celebrating with guests while I still capture those cinematic portraits.
When is the best time for wedding photos in Cozumel?
Lighting is everything in the Caribbean, and Buccanos is perfectly positioned for spectacular views. The mid-day sun can be harsh, so I always recommend we schedule your romantic portraits during “Golden Hour,” roughly an hour before sunset. Since Buccanos faces the mainland, we get incredible sunsets over the water. I will help you build your wedding timeline to take full advantage of this soft light, ensuring your oceanfront photos look dreamy rather than overexposed.
Can we get sunset photos over the ocean at Buccanos Cozumel?
Yes! This is one of the biggest advantages of getting married in Cozumel. Unlike the mainland Riviera Maya, Buccanos is located on the west coast of the island, meaning you get a front-row seat to spectacular sunsets directly over the ocean. I will schedule our couple’s session to coincide with the “Golden Hour,” allowing us to capture silhouettes on the pier or vibrant colors reflecting off the water as the sun dips below the horizon line.
What happens if it rains on our wedding day?
Buccanos is known for its seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. If tropical rain occurs, the venue features a large, stylishly designed covered terrace and an artistic indoor restaurant area with stone walls and unique decor. These spaces offer excellent protection from the elements while allowing natural light to filter through, ensuring we can still capture sophisticated and atmospheric portraits without getting wet.
Is Buccanos suitable for large weddings?
Buccanos is an exceptional venue that balances intimacy with capacity. It is perfect for couples who prioritize a high-end culinary experience and oceanfront exclusivity. While it may not host the massive structures typical of convention center resorts, the venue can comfortably accommodate substantial guest lists for a ceremony on their signature pier or the sandy beach, followed by a spacious reception under the palapa and stars, ensuring plenty of room for dancing and dining.
Where are the best spots for a “First Look” away from guests?
Since Buccanos operates as a beach club during the day, main areas can be active. However, I am very familiar with the property’s layout. We can utilize the quiet garden path near the entrance, the natural ironshore rock formations away from the main swimming area, or the upper terrace for privacy. I scout these locations based on the time of day to ensure your first look is intimate, romantic, and secluded from early arrivals or beachgoers.
Do we need a second shooter for a Buccanos wedding?
While Buccanos is more compact than a sprawling mega-resort, a second shooter is still highly recommended, especially for ceremonies held on the pier. The narrow nature of a pier ceremony makes it difficult for one photographer to move quickly between the bride’s entrance and the groom’s reaction without being obtrusive. A second shooter allows us to capture both the wide, dramatic ocean shots and the intimate, emotional close-ups simultaneously without interrupting the flow of your vows.