Kiersta and Tom had us on board as their wedding photographers down in Isla Mujeres, this stunning island just across from Cancun. They were such cool customers, and they went all-in with the 8-hour photo gig, having Adrian Bonet as lead photographer and Ivonne Matias as a 2nd shooter. Their big day? October – a month made for lovers.
Our adventure kicked off at the Ixchel Beach Hotel, where they were getting ready. Picture this: a penthouse suite with all the glitz and glam. And yeah, we were there to capture every bit of the magic. Once the prep was in the bag, we hopped on the road to Punta Sur, this chill eco-park that’s like Mother Nature’s masterpiece. There’s beaches, a lighthouse, and these wild sculptures along a cliffside path with drop-dead gorgeous sea views.
Now, the main event! The “I dos” and all that jazz went down at the Zama Beach Club. It was like something straight out of a movie, trust us. The ceremony, the reception, and the grub – all in one awesome spot. We were snapping away like there was no tomorrow. And guess what? We’ve got the cream of the crop, the absolute best pics from the whole shebang. So, without further ado, check ’em out!
If you want to explore my full portfolio of tropical wedding photography, 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 the venue typically requires an outside vendor fee, hiring a dedicated photographer is worth the investment for the artistic consistency and personal attention you receive. I am highly experienced with the logistics of Isla Mujeres weddings—from ferry schedules to island transport—and I know how to navigate the specific rules at Zama to ensure a seamless experience on your big day.
What are the best locations for wedding photos at the venue and nearby?
Zama offers a sophisticated aesthetic with its tiered infinity pools, thatched palapas, and private docks over turquoise water. However, the real magic happens when we combine this with the dramatic landscape of Punta Sur. I know exactly where to position us on the cliffs for sweeping ocean views and how to utilize the sculpture garden for unique backdrops. This ensures we get a diverse gallery featuring both high-end beach club vibes and rugged natural beauty without wasting your precious time.
Does the venue include photography services?
While Zama Beach Club may have a list of preferred vendors, relying on a standard recommendation can sometimes limit your creative control. My clients usually prefer hiring me independently to ensure full-day coverage—capturing everything from your prep at a local villa to the cliffside portraits and the lively reception. When you work with me, I guarantee a consistent artistic style and a personal connection that captures the unique energy of an Isla Mujeres wedding.
How do we handle transportation between Zama and Punta Sur?
Isla Mujeres is best navigated by golf cart, and timing is everything when moving between locations. I prioritize your comfort by helping you factor travel time into your timeline. My logistical experience on the island allows us to zip between the epic cliffs of Punta Sur and the luxury of Zama quickly, maximizing your time celebrating with guests while I still capture those cinematic portraits in multiple distinct locations.
When is the best time for wedding photos on Isla Mujeres?
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. Zama is famous for its sunset views, and I will help you build your 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 Zama Beach Club?
Absolutely! This is one of the biggest advantages of choosing Isla Mujeres over the mainland. Unlike the Cancun coastline, Zama Beach Club is situated on the western side of the island, meaning the sun sets directly over the ocean and the distant Cancun skyline. I will schedule our couple’s session to take full advantage of this unique geography, capturing the sun dropping into the water during “Golden Hour,” ensuring you get those iconic sunset shots right from the dock or the white sands of the club.
What happens if it rains on our wedding day?
Zama Beach Club is designed with beautiful, extensive open-air structures that provide excellent cover while maintaining a tropical vibe. If tropical rain occurs, the large, chic palapas and the stylish covered restaurant areas offer sophisticated backgrounds with plenty of natural light. Additionally, the architectural lines of the club’s interior and the lush surrounding greenery allow me to create a varied and elegant gallery without us ever having to step out into the rain.
Is Zama Beach Club suitable for mid-to-large weddings?
Definitely. Zama is a premier venue for destination weddings because of its versatile multi-level layout. It can seamlessly handle the flow from a ceremony on the sand to a cocktail hour by the pools, and finally a reception under the main palapa. I am well-versed in navigating this venue to capture the energy of a crowded dance floor or the grandeur of a full reception setup, ensuring that even with a larger guest list, the intimacy and luxury of the beach club atmosphere are preserved in your photos.
Where are the best spots for a “First Look” away from guests?
If you want high drama and privacy, I highly recommend arranging transportation to Punta Sur for your First Look. The cliffs at the southern tip of the island offer a breathtaking, dramatic backdrop of crashing waves and endless ocean that feels worlds away from the party. Alternatively, if we stay onsite at Zama, I scout the quieter corners near the yacht dock or the entrance garden beforehand to ensure we find a secluded space where you can share that private moment without bystanders.
Do we need a second shooter for an Isla Mujeres wedding?
Given the logistics of an island wedding—where you might be getting ready at a private villa or hotel elsewhere before traveling to Zama or Punta Sur—I highly recommend a second shooter. While I am with the bride capturing the finishing touches, my second photographer can cover the groom’s prep at a different location or capture guests arriving by catamaran. Working as a team ensures we bridge the travel gaps and don’t miss any candid moments while moving between the cliffs, the ceremony, and the reception.