Should You Use The Resort Photographer?
The beach is booked, your resort looks perfect, and you’re picturing the sun setting as you say your vows. But here’s the question most couples overlook: Who’s capturing those memories?
Many assume the resort photographer will be “good enough.” The truth? Bringing your own Canadian wedding photographer is one of the smartest (and most underrated) decisions you can make.
Here’s why it matters—and how to do it right.
1. Resort Photographers Are a Gamble
Most all-inclusive resorts outsource photography to third-party vendors. That means you often can’t:
- Choose your photographer
- Preview a full portfolio
- Confirm editing style or turnaround time
- Communicate directly before the wedding
Photographer Insight:
“I’ve seen resort galleries with overexposed skies, missed moments, and generic editing. You might get a couple of usable photos—but not the full story.”
Related: Should I Hire the Resort Photographer for My Destination Wedding?
2. You Get What You Pay For (Or Don’t)
A typical resort package includes:
- 1–2 hours of coverage
- Ceremony photos and a few posed portraits
- Minimal editing (often batch-processed, sometimes watermarked)
What’s missing?
- Getting ready, golden hour, first look, or reception coverage
- Intentional storytelling and candid moments
- A consistent editing style that matches your engagement photos
3. Your Own Photographer = Peace of Mind
When you fly in a Canadian wedding photographer, you get:
- Someone you’ve chosen based on their portfolio and personality
- Full-day coverage tailored to your timeline
- Editing that matches your previous sessions
- A trusted professional working for you, not the resort
Related: Why You Should Do a Day-After Session at Your Destination Wedding
4. Destination Wedding Photography Is Specialized Work
Photographers with destination experience know how to:
- Handle harsh tropical light and reflective sand
- Scout creative locations on and off the resort
- Navigate fast-moving timelines
- Communicate clearly with local vendors—even in different languages
Related: What Questions to Ask the Resort Before You Book Your Destination Wedding
5. It’s Not as Expensive as You Think
Most Canadian photographers offer destination packages that bundle:
- Travel and accommodations
- Full-day or multi-day coverage
- Adventure sessions or beach portraits
- Online galleries with high-res downloads
Tip: You may be able to avoid outside vendor fees by registering your photographer as a guest—just confirm this with your resort.
Related: Destination Wedding Budget Guide: What Canadian Couples Should Expect
6. You’re Legally Protected
Hiring a Canadian photographer means:
- Your contract is governed by Canadian law
- You avoid foreign exchange rate surprises
- You won’t have to deal with language or communication barriers if issues arise
Questions to Ask Your Photographer
Before booking, ask:
- Do you offer destination wedding packages?
- Is travel included? What days are covered?
- How do you plan logistics and scouting?
- Have you photographed in our destination before?
Photographer Insight:
“I’ve shot dozens of destination weddings. The difference between couples who brought their own photographer and those who didn’t? Night and day. The confidence, trust, and final gallery just aren’t the same.”
The Bottom Line
Choosing the resort photographer may seem easier—but it’s rarely the best option.
If you want timeless, emotional, high-quality images, bring your own Canadian wedding photographer.
It’s an investment in peace of mind, visual consistency, and storytelling you’ll treasure for life.
Learn How to find your dream wedding photographer for your destination wedding.