Planning a destination wedding is a dream, crystal-clear waters, breathtaking backdrops, and unforgettable memories. But when it comes to capturing those once in a lifetime moments, there’s one crucial decision many couples overlook: Who will be behind the lens? Should you book your own photographer for your destination wedding?
If you’re investing in a luxury destination wedding, don’t settle for the resort’s photographer. Here’s why hiring your own professional wedding photography team is not only worth it, but essential Here is what you need to know before booking a wedding photographer for your destination wedding.
1. Venue Photographers vs. Your Personal Luxury Photographer
Resorts often offer photography packages as part of their wedding deals, but these are typically handled by staff photographers with limited time, minimal creative freedom, and little experience in high-end weddings.
Luxury wedding photographers (like our team at Lauren Ashley Studios) specialize in storytelling, emotion, elegant images, and personalized experiences. We don’t just show up, we immerse ourselves in your love story, your vision, your vibe.
Think of it this way: You’re not just paying for photos. You’re investing in timeless, magazine-worthy artwork of your most meaningful day.
2. Why Bringing Your Own Photographer Matters
Your destination might be new to you, but a seasoned luxury photographer will know how to work in any lighting, location, or weather condition. We scout ahead of time, schedule buffer hours, and know how to get the shot in fast-paced or unpredictable environments.
Plus, having your own dedicated photographer ensures that you’re the priority, not just a slot in a daily wedding schedule. We stay longer, care deeper, and aim higher.
3. Expectations for Travel Expenses
When hiring a destination wedding photography team, here’s what to plan for in addition to the photography package itself:
- Airfare for two photographers (we always travel as a team to capture multiple angles, prep shots, and behind-the-scenes magic)
- Special Visas several countries require specific documentation and visas for low cost
- Hotel accommodations, typically for 2–3 nights depending on location and schedule
- Transportation (airport transfers, rides to off-site shoot locations, etc.)
We’re experienced travelers and make the process easy. We’ll handle our own bookings and provide clear, upfront travel expectations so there are no surprises.
4. Timing Is Everything
For destination weddings, we recommend flying in at least one to two days early to scout the venue, check lighting conditions, and adjust to time zones. This helps us avoid any travel delays and ensures we’re fresh, focused, and ready to shoot your big day with intention.
We also love scheduling a welcome dinner shoot, a sunrise beach session, or a day-after adventure shoot because your destination deserves more than just ceremony coverage.
5. The Level of Service You Deserve
From the first consultation to the final gallery, working with a luxury wedding photographer means you get:
- Personalized attention
- A photography plan tailored to your destination and timeline
- Consistency in style and quality across your entire wedding experience
- Beautifully edited images ready for albums, print, and publication
We don’t just document your day, we create art that brings it back to life, every time you look at it.
6. Final Thoughts: This Is Your Day
Don’t let your love story be reduced to generic resort images. If you’re putting your heart into planning a destination wedding, your photography should reflect that same level of care, luxury, and intention.
Your story deserves to be told beautifully, authentically, and globally. Wherever you go, we’ll go, cameras in hand, ready to capture every breathtaking, tear-filled, joy-soaked moment.
Planning a destination wedding?
Let’s make magic.
📧 Contact us at Info@lauren-ashley.com
📍 Serving couples worldwide | ✈️ Based in Chicago
