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.
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.
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
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
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
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.
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