Take the Pressure Off Your Wedding Day

Your wedding day will fly by—especially at a resort. Between the heat, timelines, and cocktail hour logistics, you may not get the kind of portraits you really want. That’s why more and more Canadian couples are adding a day-after session to their photography package: a relaxed, intentional shoot the next day, when the pressure is off and the light is perfect.

Here’s why it’s worth considering—and how to make the most of it.

Wedding Photography by Tiffany Marie

What Is a Day-After Session?

A day-after session is a separate portrait shoot that happens after your wedding day—usually:

  • The next morning or evening
  • In your wedding attire (or something else)
  • At a more scenic, private, or visually striking location
  • With no guests, no timeline pressure, and no distractions

It’s all about stunning, stress-free portraits you wouldn’t have had time (or energy) for on the big day.

Wedding Photography by Twinography
Photography by Twinography

Why You Should Do One

1. Better Light, Better Photos

Most destination wedding ceremonies happen in the early afternoon—aka the worst time of day for flattering light. A day-after session gives your photographer the freedom to shoot:

  • At golden hour for that dreamy, romantic glow
  • At sunrise for soft, pastel skies and empty beaches

Related: Destination Wedding Timeline Tips

2. No Time Pressure

There’s no cocktail hour countdown. No guests waiting. Just you and your photographer, exploring, experimenting, and capturing real connection at your own pace.

Photographer Insight:
“Some of my best work has come from day-after sessions. Couples are looser, more in love, and way more present.”

3. Creative Freedom

You’re no longer confined to the resort’s designated photo zones. Go somewhere meaningful—or adventurous:

  • Into the ocean for a cinematic finale
  • To local ruins, jungles, or cenotes
  • Along cliffs or hiking trails
  • Into town for a cultural vibe

Related: Is “Trash the Dress” Dead?

4. You’ll Look and Feel More Relaxed

With the wedding behind you, the energy shifts. You’ll:

  • Be more yourselves
  • Enjoy playful, emotional, or even editorial-style shots
  • Feel free to explore without an audience or expectations
Wedding Photography by Black & Gold Photography

Popular Day-After Session Ideas

  • Sunrise beach portraits
  • Ocean dip or cliffside shoot
  • Rooftop terrace or garden stroll
  • Town square, market, or local café
  • Cenote, jungle, or waterfall locations

Related: How to Plan an All-Inclusive Destination Wedding

Do You Need a Day-After Session?

You should definitely consider it if:

  • Your wedding timeline is tight
  • Your ceremony is during midday sun
  • You want epic portraits without missing time with guests
  • You’re up for adventure and creativity
     
Wedding Photography by Marissa Naylor
Photography by Marissa Naylor

Pro Tip: Bundle It Into Your Photography Package

Most Canadian destination photographers offer full-day packages that include:

  • Full wedding day coverage
  • A day-after session
  • Travel and accommodation
  • Optional Trash the Dress or adventure session

It’s more affordable to add it upfront—and gives your photographer time to plan something amazing.

Related: Why You Should Bring a Canadian Photographer

Want Timeless Photos Without the Stress?

Bringing your own Canadian photographer—and booking a day-after session—means you don’t have to choose between being present and having beautiful images.

Browse Canadian Photographers Who Offer Day-After Destination Sessions