B.Y.O. Photographer?

Most all-inclusive resorts include a photographer in their wedding package—usually 1–2 hours of coverage and a handful of edited images. It sounds easy. Convenient. “Good enough,” right?

Not always.

Here’s what Canadian couples should know before relying on the resort photographer—and when it’s absolutely worth it to bring your own.

What’s Typically Included With a Resort Photographer

• 1–2 hours of photography (usually just the ceremony and some posed shots)
• 25–50 digital images (sometimes watermarked)
• Limited editing—often batch-processed
• Extra fees for full gallery access or prints

Some resorts offer this as a free add-on, while others charge separately or upsell you into tiered photography packages.

What’s Usually Missing

• Getting ready coverage
• Candid emotional moments like the first look, parent reactions, or reception dancing
• Golden hour portraits or creative storytelling
• Full-day coverage
• A consistent editing style
• Pre-wedding planning or communication
• A genuine relationship with the photographer

Photographer Insight:
“The resort photographer might do three weddings in one day. You’re just one file on their list—not their client in the traditional sense.”

Common Complaints From Couples Who Used the Resort Photographer

• “We had no idea who would show up.”
• “The editing was rushed and generic.”
• “We only got a handful of usable photos.”
• “They missed the moments we cared about.”
• “We felt rushed the entire time.”

Related reading: Destination Wedding Horror Story: What Went Wrong at Sandos Playacar

When It Might Be Fine to Use the Resort Photographer

There are a few scenarios where the resort photographer might make sense:

• You’re eloping and just want minimal documentation
• Photography isn’t a priority
• You’re holding a second celebration back in Canada
• You’ve seen a full portfolio from the exact photographer and are truly impressed

Tip: Ask to see real, full galleries—not just a highlights reel. And confirm who will actually be assigned to your wedding.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

• You can’t view full galleries or editing examples
• No communication allowed prior to the wedding
• Ambiguous pricing or long delivery timelines
• Package cost exceeds $3,000 CAD
• Pressure to upgrade or unclear contracts
   

The Better Option: Bring Your Own Canadian Photographer

If photography is a priority, bring someone you trust:

• Full-day or multi-day coverage
• Consistent editing and intentional storytelling
• Personalized communication throughout the planning process
• Creative flexibility to shoot on and off resort
• Legal protection under a Canadian contract

Related: Why You Should Bring a Canadian Photographer to Your Destination Wedding

 

The Bottom Line

The resort photographer might be convenient—but they’re often a mystery until the day of. And when you only get one chance to capture your wedding, you want more than a time slot and 50 batch-edited photos.

Your wedding story deserves to be told from start to finish, by someone who understands your vision.

Browse Canadian Wedding Photographers You Can Trust