Madison and Xavier’s August wedding at Secrets Akumal Resort was a perfect blend of beachside beauty and garden elegance. The day started with the couple getting ready in their gorgeous suites, where we captured intimate, behind-the-scenes moments of anticipation and excitement. Madison looked stunning as her bridesmaids helped her into her dress, while Xavier and his groomsmen shared laughs and got ready for the big day. The tropical surroundings of the resort added an extra touch of paradise to every shot, setting the stage for what was to come.
Their ceremony took place right on the beach, with the turquoise waters of Akumal Bay as the backdrop. Madison walked down the sandy aisle with the sound of waves crashing behind her, and Xavier stood waiting with a beaming smile, clearly overcome with emotion. The sun shone brightly as they exchanged heartfelt vows, surrounded by their closest family and friends.
After the ceremony, the celebration continued at the resort’s Ceiba Garden, where the reception dinner and dancing took place. The lush greenery of the garden created a romantic, intimate atmosphere, perfect for an evening of laughter, good food, and dancing under the stars. Madison and Xavier’s first dance was unforgettable, surrounded by twinkling lights and the sounds of nature. It was a night filled with love and celebration, and we were honored to capture every beautiful moment of their dream wedding at Secrets Akumal Resort.
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Wedding Photographer FAQ’S
Can I bring my own external photographer to Secrets Akumal?
Yes! You are absolutely welcome to bring me in as an outside vendor. The resort does require an outside vendor fee, but if you book me as a guest for a minimum of 3 nights, that fee is usually waived. I highly recommend hiring a dedicated photographer because I am already familiar with the specific vendor policies of the Hyatt Inclusive Collection and know how to navigate the resort’s logistics to ensure a seamless experience on your big day.
What are the best locations for wedding photos at the resort?
Secrets Akumal is famous for its romantic atmosphere—blending lush jungle vibes with the ocean—and I know exactly where to take you for the most stunning backdrops. Whether it’s the winding nature paths filled with tropical greenery, the iconic stone arches, or the calm, clear waters of Akumal Bay, I know where the hidden gems are. This ensures we get a huge variety of looks, utilizing the “Secrets” architecture and nature without wasting your precious time.
Does the resort package include photography services?
While some Secrets Akumal packages include basic photography, it is often limited regarding hours and image count. My clients usually prefer hiring me independently to ensure full-day coverage—capturing everything from your getting-ready moments to the late-night reception party. When you work with me, I guarantee a consistent artistic style and a personal connection that goes far beyond the standard in-house resort offerings.
How do we handle logistics for photos on the property?
Unlike massive mega-resorts, Secrets Akumal is intimately designed, but navigating the winding jungle pathways in wedding attire still requires planning. I prioritize your comfort by knowing the most direct, shaded routes between locations. My logistical experience here allows us to move between the ceremony gazebo and the secluded garden spots efficiently, maximizing your time celebrating with guests while I still capture those cinematic portraits.
When is the best time for wedding photos in Akumal?
Lighting is everything in the Riviera Maya. The mid-day sun can be incredibly harsh, so I always recommend we schedule your romantic portraits during “Golden Hour,” roughly an hour before sunset. 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, while perfectly timing the transition from your ceremony to the reception.
Can we get sunset photos over the ocean at Secrets Akumal?
It is important to remember that on the Riviera Maya coast, the sun rises over the ocean and sets over the jungle side. I will schedule our couple’s session to capture the stunning soft light of the “Golden Hour” on Akumal Bay, but if you truly want the sun coming up directly over the water, I might suggest a “First Look” session at sunrise. For the evening, I will position you to catch the beautiful colors filling the sky behind the lush resort vegetation and pools.
What happens if it rains on our wedding day?
One of the things I love about this resort is its integration with nature. If tropical rain occurs, I know exactly where to find the best covered locations, such as the open-air lobby with its beautiful wooden accents, the sheltered walkways lined with greenery, or the elegant terrace areas that offer natural light without the rain. These backup spots ensure I can keep your gallery romantic and sophisticated regardless of the weather.
Is Secrets Akumal suitable for larger weddings?
Absolutely. While Secrets Akumal is famous for romance, it is an excellent destination for sophisticated larger events. Because it is an adults-only property, the atmosphere is consistently elegant. I am well-versed in managing the flow of events here, understanding the critical angles needed for the ceremony at the seaside gazebo, and how to navigate the reception spaces to capture the energy of your guests while utilizing the resort’s stunning fire pits and lighting design.
Where are the best spots for a “First Look” away from guests?
Because the resort is a highly desirable destination, the main infinity pools and beach areas can be lively. However, I know several secluded jungle paths, quiet bridges over the cenote-style waterways, and hidden garden corners that offer much more privacy. As your photographer, I scout these secluded locations beforehand to ensure your intimate first look remains private and free of bystanders in the background.
Do we need a second shooter for a Secrets Akumal wedding?
Given the winding layout of the property—which features meandering paths through lush jungle vegetation—I highly recommend a second shooter. While I am with the bride at the spa or the bridal suite, my second photographer can cover the groom getting ready in a separate building. Working with a team ensures that we don’t miss a single moment while navigating between the Preferred Club areas and the ceremony locations.