Stephanie and Matthew had us as their trusty wedding photographers, and they went all-in for the 8-hour photo session. Oh boy, it was a March to remember! They were getting ready at the fancy Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort, and we were there to capture every moment.
The ceremony? Well, let me tell you, it was under this seriously gorgeous gazebo with an ocean view that was out-of-this-world. I mean, it’s like something straight out of a fairy tale. And the reception and dancing? Yep, right on the beach! We had sand between our toes while snapping those amazing moments.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – Stephanie and Matthew themselves. We took their portraits on the resort’s beach and its lush green areas, and these two were absolute naturals. I swear, they’re like models in the making.
We’ve put together a selection of the cream of the crop, the absolute best photos from their day. You’re gonna love these snapshots; they’re like a diary of all the magic we captured. Enjoy! If you want to explore my full portfolio as a Cancun wedding photographer, click here to see more of my work and get inspired for your big day!
Wedding Photographer FAQ’S
Can I bring my own external photographer to Royalton Riviera Cancun?
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 here 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?
The resort is expansive—split between the main Resort area, Diamond Club, and the adults-only Hideaway—but I know exactly where to take you for the most stunning backdrops. Whether it’s the panoramic ocean views from the Sky Wedding terrace, the wooden walkways near the mangrove, or the modern architecture of the lobby areas, I know where the hidden gems are. This ensures we get a huge variety of looks without wasting your precious time wandering the property.
Does the resort package include photography services?
While some Royalton 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 in the suite 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 resort offerings.
How do we handle transportation for photos on such a large property?
Because Royalton Riviera Cancun is so large, walking between the beach and the main buildings in wedding attire can be exhausting. I prioritize your comfort by coordinating golf cart transportation with the concierge ahead of time. My logistical experience here allows us to zip between the Sky Terrace and the secluded garden spots quickly, maximizing your time celebrating with guests while I still capture those cinematic portraits.
When is the best time for wedding photos in Cancun?
Lighting is everything in the Caribbean. 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 Royalton Riviera Cancun?
It is important to remember that on the Caribbean coast of Mexico, 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 the beach, 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 modern resort architecture.
What happens if it rains on our wedding day?
One of the things I love about this resort is its chic, contemporary design. If tropical rain occurs, I know exactly where to find the best indoor locations, such as the main lobby with its unique lighting fixtures, the sheltered wooden walkways, or the covered terraces that offer natural light without the rain. These backup spots ensure I can keep your gallery sophisticated and varied regardless of the weather.
Is Royalton Riviera Cancun suitable for large weddings?
Absolutely. Royalton Riviera Cancun is a premier destination for South Asian and large-scale weddings because they have ample space for the Baraat procession and expansive areas like the Sky Terrace for ceremonies. I am well-versed in these multi-day events, understanding the critical angles needed for the Sangeet, how to capture the intricate details of the Mehndi, and how to navigate large crowds during the ceremony to capture every ritual perfectly.
Where are the best spots for a “First Look” away from guests?
Because the resort is a popular vacation spot, the main pools and plazas can be crowded. However, I know several secluded garden areas, quiet corners near the spa, and stretches of beach near the Hideaway section 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 Royalton Riviera Cancun wedding?
Given the layout of the property—which often requires travel between the family-friendly sections, the Diamond Club, and the adults-only Hideaway—I highly recommend a second shooter. While I am with the bride at the spa or bridal suite, my second photographer can cover the groom getting ready in a different wing of the resort. Working with a team ensures that we don’t miss a single moment while travelling between these distinct locations.