Matt and Melinda chose us to capture their big day, and they went all-in with an 8-hour photo shoot. The wedding happened in May, which, in our book, is prime wedding season! The bride and groom were all excited, getting prepped in their hotel rooms at the fancy Privilege Aluxes Hotel. And let me tell you, the ceremony? It went down at the breathtaking Zama Beach Club, right by this epic beach pier. We’ve handpicked some of our absolute faves from that unforgettable day – check ’em out below!
Picture this: Matt and Melinda, super chill and ready to tie the knot. We had the pleasure of being there to capture every laugh, tear, and kiss. They kicked things off in style at the hotel, getting all dressed up and looking dapper and fabulous. Then, the action shifted to the Zama Beach Club, where the ceremony took place. I mean, what a spot! You’ve got the beach vibes, the sun, and the pier as a backdrop. It was pure magic.
Now, we don’t wanna keep you waiting any longer. Feast your eyes on this handpicked selection of the best shots from the big day. From heartfelt vows to those wild dance floor moves, we’ve got it all covered. Matt and Melinda’s love story is one for the books, and we’re so stoked to have been part of it.
Go ahead and scroll through these pics, and you’ll feel like you were right there with us, celebrating this amazing journey with Matt and Melinda. Enjoy!
If you want to explore my full portfolio as a wedding photographer in Cancun, 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 Zama Beach Club?
Yes! You are absolutely welcome to bring me in as an outside vendor. While Zama Beach Club is a private venue that may require an external vendor fee, I am well-versed in their specific policies. Unlike a resort where I might stay as a guest, for Isla Mujeres weddings, I handle all my own logistics regarding the ferry and island transport. I highly recommend hiring a dedicated photographer because I am familiar with the unique lighting conditions of Zama’s open-air architecture and know how to navigate the island’s logistics to ensure a seamless experience.
What are the best locations for wedding photos at the venue?
Zama Beach Club is famous for its stunning architecture and layout. I know exactly how to utilize the venue’s best features for your portraits. From the iconic tiered infinity pools that blend into the ocean to the sleek wooden docks and the chic, white-washed walls that define the club’s aesthetic, I know where the hidden angles are. This ensures we get a high-end, editorial variety of looks—utilizing both the architectural lines and the natural beach backdrop—without wasting your precious time.
Does the venue package include photography services?
Zama Beach Club is a luxury venue rather than an all-inclusive resort, so while they may have a preferred vendor list, photography is typically booked independently. My clients prefer hiring me directly to ensure consistent, full-day coverage—capturing everything from your getting-ready moments at your Airbnb or hotel to the late-night dance party by the pools. When you work with me, I guarantee a consistent artistic style that perfectly complements the boho-chic vibe of Isla Mujeres.
How do we handle transportation for photos on Isla Mujeres?
While Zama itself is walkable, if you wish to take portraits elsewhere on the island—like the dramatic cliffs of Punta Sur or the colorful streets of downtown—transportation is key. I prioritize your comfort by helping coordinate golf cart transportation (the island’s main mode of travel). My logistical experience on Isla allows us to zip between the venue and other scenic spots quickly, maximizing your time celebrating with guests while I still capture those cinematic island portraits.
When is the best time for wedding photos on Isla Mujeres?
Lighting is everything in the Caribbean, and Zama Beach Club boasts some of the best sunsets in the region. The mid-day sun can be harsh, so I always recommend we schedule your romantic portraits during “Golden Hour,” roughly an hour before sunset. Because Zama faces the ideal direction, we get a front-row seat to the sun dipping below the horizon. I will help you build your timeline to take full advantage of this soft, dreamy light, ensuring your oceanfront photos look spectacular.
Can we get sunset photos over the ocean at Zama Beach Club?
Unlike the mainland Riviera Maya, Zama Beach Club is located on the western side of Isla Mujeres, which is a huge advantage. This means we absolutely can capture the sun setting directly over the water. I will schedule our couple’s session to take full advantage of this unique positioning, allowing us to catch the “Golden Hour” as the sun dips below the horizon with the distant Cancun skyline twinkling in the background.
What happens if it rains on our wedding day?
One of the best features of Zama is its massive, high-end Palapa structures. If tropical rain occurs, we can easily pivot to the covered restaurant and bar areas, which feature towering thatched roofs and open-air sides. These spaces allow for beautiful natural light while keeping you dry, ensuring your gallery retains that chic, tropical island vibe without us having to retreat into a standard hotel room.
Is Zama Beach Club suitable for large celebrations?
Definitely. Zama is a premier destination for those seeking “barefoot luxury” and can accommodate energetic parties. It is particularly famous for its yacht accessibility, allowing for dramatic arrivals by sea. I am well-versed in the layout of the club, understanding how to frame the ceremony against the infinity pools, how to capture the arrival from the dock, and how to navigate the sandy dance floor to capture the energy of your reception.
Where are the best spots for a “First Look” away from guests?
Because Zama is an open-concept beach club, guests tend to congregate around the pools and bar. However, I love utilizing the long wooden pier for a dramatic first look surrounded by turquoise water, or the lush tropical pathways near the venue entrance which offer more seclusion. As your photographer, I coordinate these moments to ensure you have a private, intimate reveal before the festivities begin.
Do we need a second shooter for a Zama wedding?
While Zama is more intimate than a mega-resort, I still recommend a second shooter for logistical reasons. Often, the bride gets ready at a hotel elsewhere on the island while the groom arrives at the venue by boat. A second photographer ensures we can cover these separate locations simultaneously. It also allows me to focus on your sunset portraits on the beach while my teammate captures your guests enjoying the cocktail hour.