Getting Married in Cancun, Tulum or Playa del Carmen and Want to Bring Your Own Photographer?

Planning a destination wedding in Mexico often comes with one big question:

“Can we bring our own photographer, or do we have to use the resort’s?”

If you’re getting married at an all-inclusive resort in Cancun, Tulum, or Playa del Carmen, the short answer is:

Yes, in many cases you can — but there are important things you should understand before requesting quotes.

After documenting multiple weddings in this region, we’ve learned that photography logistics at resorts work very differently than weddings in the U.S.

Here’s what couples should know.

How All-Inclusive Resorts Really Work

Most all-inclusive resorts operate with preferred or in-house vendors, including photographers and videographers. These vendors already know the resort’s rules, timelines, and spaces.

This doesn’t always mean outside photographers are forbidden — but it usually means there are conditions.

Every resort is different. Some allow outside vendors freely, others require permissions, and some apply additional fees or restrictions.

Understanding this early can save you time, money, and stress.

Vendor Fees, Permissions & Restrictions

When couples want to bring their own photographer, resorts may require:

1. An outside vendor fee

2. Advance approval or paperwork

3. Limits on equipment or shooting areas

4. Restrictions on timing or access during the wedding day

These policies are not always clearly explained at the beginning of the planning process, which is why it’s important to ask the right questions before booking any vendor.

If you’re planning a destination wedding in Mexico and want a photography experience that’s designed around resort policies, logistics, and on-site expectations — not guesswork — we’ve put together a destination wedding photography experience built specifically for couples getting married in Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and the Riviera Maya.

Photographer Lodging: A Key Detail Most Couples Overlook

One of the most important — and least discussed — aspects is how the photographer is hosted during the wedding weekend.

In many destination weddings, photographers need to:

1. Arrive at least one day before the wedding

2. Stay on-site to avoid transportation delays

3. Leave the day after the event

Some resorts allow photographers to be included in the wedding’s room block at the negotiated guest rate, while others require separate arrangements or public pricing.

This detail can significantly affect logistics and budgeting and should always be discussed early.

Transportation & Distances Matter More Than You Think

Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen may look close on a map, but travel times can be long.

Transportation planning may include:

1. Resort shuttles vs. private transportation

2. Rental cars vs. hired drivers

3. Separate arrival and departure schedules from guests

All of this plays a role in how photography coverage is planned and priced.

So… Can You Bring Your Own Photographer?

In many cases, yes — with the right planning and clear expectations.

The key is understanding that destination weddings at all-inclusive resorts require a different logistical approach than local weddings. When everyone is aligned from the beginning, the experience can be smooth and stress-free.

Final Thought

Choosing your photographer is a personal decision.

Our role is to help couples understand the full picture — not just the images, but everything that surrounds them.

If you’re planning a wedding in Cancun, Tulum, or Playa del Carmen and want guidance based on real experience, we’re always happy to talk.

👉 For a deeper breakdown of these topics, we also share a more detailed guide on our blog.