Emily and Frankie, they hired us to capture their special day through the lens. Yep, we got to play wedding photographers for these two lovebirds! It was a breezy 2-hour gig, and they had us meet ’em at the swanky Rosewood Mayakoba, just a stone’s throw away from Playa del Carmen. Let me tell you, this place is gold for a photographer like us, tons of gorgeous spots to shoot.
The adventure kicked off in style. First things first, we clinked glasses with some tequila in one of those fancy floating rooms they got there. Picture perfect, right? Then we strolled along the lake and its dreamy gardens, taking some snaps as we went. And who could resist a quick swing in a hammock? Not us! We had a chill break there, just soaking up the vibes.
As the sun began to call it a day, we wrapped up the shoot with a romantic seaside walk. The sea, the sand, and Emily and Frankie, it was all pure magic. The light was fading, but that didn’t stop us. We got our night photography game on, and let me tell you, those shots turned out like something out of a fairytale. What a day!
If you want to explore my full portfolio as an experienced Playa del Carmen wedding photographer, click here to see more of my work and get inspired for your big day!
Engagement Photographer FAQ’S
Can I bring my own external photographer to Rosewood Mayakoba?
Yes! You are absolutely welcome to bring me in as an outside vendor. The resort does require an outside vendor fee for photographers not on their preferred list, or you may need to cover a day pass depending on their current policy. I highly recommend hiring a dedicated photographer because I am already familiar with the strict privacy protocols here and know how to navigate the intricate layout of the Mayakoba complex to ensure a seamless, stress-free engagement session.
What are the best locations for engagement photos at the resort?
Rosewood Mayakoba is unique—defined by its emerald lagoons, limestone canals, and pristine coast—but I know exactly where to take you for the most romantic backdrops. Whether it’s a private moment on the boat docks surrounded by mangroves, the modern architecture of the walkway bridges, or the soft white sands of the Caribbean beach, I know where the hidden gems are. This ensures we get a high-end, editorial variety of looks without wasting your time wandering the lush property.
Does the resort offer photography services?
While Rosewood may offer basic snapshot services or preferred vendors, these sessions are often brief and standardized. My clients prefer hiring me independently to ensure a personalized experience—allowing for outfit changes, artistic direction, and a relaxed pace. When you work with me, I guarantee a consistent aesthetic that matches the luxury of the resort and a level of comfort that helps capture authentic chemistry, going far beyond a standard resort photo session.
How do we handle transportation for photos on such a spread-out property?
Because Rosewood is split between the lagoon side and the beach, moving between locations in evening wear can take time. I prioritize your comfort by helping coordinate the resort’s golf carts or even arranging a boat ride (lancha) through the concierge. My logistical experience here allows us to transition from the jungle pathways to the oceanfront seamlessly, maximizing your shooting time while I capture those cinematic portraits against diverse backgrounds.
When is the best time for engagement photos in Riviera Maya?
Lighting is everything in the Caribbean. The mid-day sun can be incredibly harsh and hot, so I always recommend we schedule your romantic portraits during “Golden Hour,” roughly an hour before sunset. I will help you plan your session start time to take full advantage of this soft light, ensuring the reflections on the lagoon look dreamy rather than overexposed, while perfectly timing the session to end with a champagne toast on the beach at dusk.
Can we get sunset photos over the ocean at Rosewood Mayakoba?
It is important to remember that on the Riviera Maya, the sun rises over the ocean and sets over the jungle side. I will schedule our engagement session to capture the stunning soft light of the “Golden Hour” on the white sand beach, but the unique magic of Rosewood lies in the lagoons. For the evening, I often suggest finishing near the mangrove docks to catch the beautiful colors reflecting off the emerald water as the sun dips behind the lush canopy.
What happens if it rains during our engagement session?
One of the things I love about this property is its sophisticated eco-architecture. If tropical rain occurs, I know exactly where to find the best covered locations, such as the limestone walkways, the elegant library area, or the covered boat docks that offer natural light while keeping you dry. These backup spots ensure I can keep your engagement gallery romantic, moody, and varied regardless of the weather.
Is Rosewood Mayakoba suitable for a diverse engagement gallery?
Absolutely. Rosewood is a premier destination for engagement photography because it offers two distinct worlds in one location: the jungle and the sea. I am well-versed in navigating this expansive property, understanding how to capture the intimate serenity of a boat ride through the lagoons, and knowing exactly when to transition to the beach to ensure we capture both the lush greenery and the Caribbean blue in a single session.
Where are the best spots for a private proposal?
While Rosewood is known for its exclusivity, the main pool and restaurant areas can still have activity. However, I know several secluded nature trails, private floating docks within the canals, and quiet stretches of coastline that offer complete privacy. As your photographer, I scout these hidden gems beforehand to ensure your proposal remains an intimate moment shared just between the two of you, free of bystanders.
How do we handle transportation across the resort during the shoot?
Given the sheer size of the property—which connects the lagoon suites to the beachfront via winding waterways—logistics are key. Instead of a simple walk, we will likely utilize the resort’s boat service or golf carts to get from the mangroves to the ocean. I build this travel time into our schedule to ensure we don’t miss the changing light while moving between these stunning, yet distant, backdrops.