Christian & Karla: An Old San Juan Love Story in Puerto Rico

It’s all about composition

     This past Saturday, I had the joy of capturing a love story session with Christian and Karla in the historic and colorful streets of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. The session was nothing short of spectacular, with the city’s rich architecture and vibrant culture providing the perfect canvas for this couple’s love story. To top it off, the evening sky treated us to a breathtaking sunset with hues of blue, orange, and purple, setting a stunning scene that truly highlighted their connection.

     Pre-wedding photoshoots like this allow couples to get comfortable in front of the camera before the big day. Christian and Karla had never had professional photos taken, and at first, it showed in their slight nervousness. But with a few carefully selected prompts and some practice poses, they quickly began to relax and let their guard down, letting their true personalities shine. These moments are invaluable, as they help couples feel prepared and at ease for their wedding day.

In the middle.

     Having my assistant, Bryan, on hand made a huge difference in capturing the lighting of Old San Juan at its finest. Using both natural and flash photography, we were able to create dynamic shots that showcase not only the beauty of the location but also the bond between Christian and Karla. The combination of the setting sun and our lighting techniques brought out their best features and enhanced the vibrant backdrop. It’s experiences like these that remind me why I love being a wedding photographer in Puerto Rico.

     Old San Juan is a dream destination for couples, especially those traveling from afar. It boasts colorful streets, historic architecture, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes anyone feel right at home. As Puerto Rico wedding photographers, we are fortunate to capture couples against such rich, picturesque scenery that you simply can’t find anywhere else. For Christian and Karla, this pre-wedding session allowed them to celebrate their love in a setting that mirrors both the timeless beauty of their bond and the unique charm of Puerto Rico.

     For couples coming from Europe, a pre-wedding photoshoot in Puerto Rico is the perfect way to ease into their wedding celebrations. This experience isn’t just about capturing beautiful photos; it’s a chance to explore their destination, connect with their photographer, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Plus, they get to relax and enjoy the beauty of their surroundings without the pressures of the wedding day itself.

     Puerto Rico offers a variety of stunning locations for every type of couple. From the vibrant colors of Old San Juan to the lush greenery of El Yunque Rainforest and the soft sands of its pristine beaches, there is something for everyone. This diversity is one of the many reasons European couples are increasingly choosing to celebrate their weddings here, allowing them to blend adventure and romance effortlessly. It’s no wonder that wedding photographer in Puerto Rico has become such a sought-after title.

Slow down.

     During the session, Christian and Karla were able to connect in a deeper, more intimate way, thanks to the relaxed pace of the pre-wedding shoot. Without the usual wedding day pressures, they could enjoy the experience without any interruptions, making it an ideal way to build anticipation for the main event. For many couples, these sessions provide photos that are just as meaningful as those from the wedding day, adding another layer to their wedding album.

     As Puerto Rico wedding photographers, it’s always a pleasure to see couples embrace this beautiful island. Pre-wedding sessions offer a sneak peek into the wedding experience, giving them a taste of the beauty they’ll be immersed in on their special day. And for us photographers, it’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with our couples, understand their preferences, and learn how to best tell their unique love story.

     For European couples dreaming of a destination wedding, Puerto Rico provides not only a captivating backdrop but also convenience. There’s no passport requirement for U.S. citizens, which can ease travel arrangements for family and friends. For European couples, the island’s tropical beauty and vibrant culture make it an unparalleled location. Plus, many wedding photographers in Puerto Rico are fluent in English and Spanish, providing seamless communication.

     The photos from Christian and Karla’s session came out beautifully, capturing their personalities and the romance of Old San Juan. Each image is a testament to the power of a well-planned pre-wedding shoot, allowing couples to truly express themselves while discovering the charm of their destination. I am so grateful to be part of their journey and look forward to capturing their wedding in December, knowing that they now feel more comfortable and connected in front of the camera.

Sunset was a paid actor.

     In the end, a pre-wedding photoshoot is more than just practice for the wedding day—it’s an experience that lets couples bond, relax, and fully immerse themselves in their surroundings. For Christian and Karla, this Old San Juan session became a memory they’ll carry with them into their wedding day. And as a wedding photographer in Puerto Rico, I can’t wait to see how these moments inspire their wedding story in just a few short months.

Why Flash Photography is Essential for Weddings: Lessons from a Rainy Elopement

Flash saved the day

     As a wedding photographer in Puerto Rico, you quickly learn that every wedding comes with its own set of unique challenges. One of the most important skills a photographer can develop is mastering flash photography, which allows you to deliver stunning images no matter the lighting conditions. Whether it’s bright sun, fading daylight, or a rainy evening, flash can be the difference between decent shots and extraordinary images. My recent experience photographing Charles and Paulina’s intimate elopement at Copamarina Beach Resort highlights just how crucial flash photography can be when the weather takes an unexpected turn.

     Charles and Paulina’s elopement was planned as a cozy, sun-filled day by the beach. The plan was to rely on natural light for the ceremony, which was scheduled for the golden hour in the early evening. But as often happens in Puerto Rico, the weather had other plans. Just before their ceremony, rain clouds rolled in, and what began as a light drizzle quickly turned into a downpour. While natural light is beautiful, it’s not always reliable—especially when photographing destination weddings in Puerto Rico, where the tropical climate can change in an instant. This is where flash photography becomes a game-changer.

Smile at the camera

     Once the rain started, we had to adapt quickly. The ceremony itself took place under a gazebo, but the lighting was dim, and the overcast sky didn’t provide enough light for the kind of crisp, bright images we wanted. Without flash, these photos could have ended up looking flat or grainy due to high ISO settings. By using off-camera flash, we were able to balance the ambient light from the gloomy weather with soft, flattering light on Charles and Paulina, capturing their emotions and the details of the ceremony beautifully, despite the difficult conditions.

     Flash photography doesn’t just help in low-light situations like rain or night-time ceremonies—it also opens up creative possibilities that natural light can’t always provide. After the rain had passed, we moved the photoshoot to the newly remodeled lobby at Copamarina Beach Resort. This indoor location gave us an entirely different environment to work with—modern, elegant, and perfect for an editorial-style shoot. With the right use of flash, we were able to create dramatic, magazine-worthy images. Charles and Paulina were thrilled with the idea of a "Vogue-inspired" session, and flash allowed us to bring that vision to life by emphasizing the bold contrast and shadows that gave the photos their editorial edge.

Nostalgic

     One of the benefits of mastering flash is that it allows Puerto Rico wedding photographers to shoot in any situation without compromising the quality of their images. During Charles and Paulina’s lobby shoot, we used softboxes and strobes to create that high-fashion look while maintaining control over every element of the lighting. We didn’t have to rely on the venue’s ambient lighting, which often doesn’t flatter the subjects or convey the mood we’re aiming for. Instead, we created exactly the look we wanted by manipulating the light to suit the scene and their stylish attire.

     Flash also enhances your ability to work in various environments, whether it’s indoors or outdoors, and ensures consistency throughout the wedding day. For instance, Charles and Paulina’s photos moved from outdoor portraits to the indoor lobby without any drop in quality or mood. By using artificial lighting, we kept their photos cohesive, even though the settings were drastically different. The versatility that flash photography provides is what sets professional wedding photographers apart, as it ensures that every image is properly lit and captures the essence of the moment.

Styling and profiling

     Moreover, being a wedding photographer in Puerto Rico means that you’re often dealing with bright, harsh sunlight during beach weddings or outdoor events. Flash is essential even in these sunny conditions to fill in shadows and balance out the light, making sure that the couple is well-lit while keeping the background from being overexposed. During Charles and Paulina’s portrait session, even before the rain, flash was used to add dimension to their photos by softening shadows and bringing out the details in their attire.

     For wedding photographers who specialize in destination weddings, especially in unpredictable climates like Puerto Rico, being well-versed in both natural and artificial lighting is critical. Relying solely on natural light can be limiting when conditions change, as they often do. Flash photography provides you with the flexibility to handle any lighting scenario, whether it's dealing with an unexpected rainstorm or creating a polished look indoors. As was the case with Charles and Paulina’s wedding, our ability to quickly adapt to changing light made all the difference in delivering stunning images.

Paulina Kardashian

     Another benefit of flash photography is that it allows you to highlight specific details, like the couple’s outfits, rings, or floral arrangements, in ways that natural light might not. During Charles and Paulina’s editorial session, we used flash to emphasize the rich textures of their attire and the soft glow of their sunglasses, giving their images that high-end feel they were looking for. This level of detail would have been difficult to capture without artificial lighting, especially indoors where natural light was minimal.

     In conclusion, flash photography is an indispensable tool for any wedding photographer, particularly in a place like Puerto Rico where the weather can shift at a moment’s notice. From Charles and Paulina’s rain-soaked ceremony to their indoor editorial shoot, flash allowed us to not only overcome the challenges of the day but also to elevate their photos to a whole new level. For couples planning destination weddings in Puerto Rico, rest assured that with the right photographer who understands both natural and artificial lighting, your photos will be nothing short of spectacular, no matter what surprises the day brings.

The Five Most Popular Styles of Wedding Photography

Guánica AirBnB

     When planning your wedding, choosing the right photographer is one of the most important decisions you'll make. There are various styles of wedding photography, each with its own unique charm. The five most popular are traditional, editorial, fine art, photojournalistic, and film. As a couple, it’s essential to understand these styles to find the one that aligns best with your vision. Whether you're getting married locally or considering wedding photographers in Puerto Rico, this guide will help you navigate the different approaches and what makes them attractive.

1. Traditional Wedding Photography

Amar & Hailey at Condado Vanderbilt Hotel

     Traditional wedding photography is timeless. It emphasizes posed shots, capturing classic moments like the couple’s first kiss, family portraits, and the cutting of the cake. This style is ideal for couples who want a structured approach to their photos. With a strong focus on composition, lighting, and formal poses, traditional photography ensures that all the important moments are perfectly preserved.

     For couples seeking a polished and organized collection of memories, a Puerto Rico wedding photographer specializing in traditional photography can deliver the elegance and grace associated with this style. If you value consistency and timelessness, traditional photography is an attractive option.

2. Editorial Wedding Photography

Kfir & Tahel in Guánica, Puerto Rico

     Inspired by high-fashion magazines, editorial wedding photography brings a touch of glamour to your big day. With its stylish, high-end aesthetic, it often features dramatic poses and creative compositions. This style is great for couples who want to feel like celebrities or models on their wedding day, offering photos that are bold and striking.

     Editorial photography is particularly appealing if you’re looking for a sophisticated, magazine-worthy album. Wedding photographers in Puerto Rico who specialize in this style can use stunning backdrops and fashionable elements to create a highly curated look that makes you feel like you’ve stepped onto the pages of a luxury magazine.

3. Fine Art Wedding Photography

Ance & Nels at the Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde

     Fine art wedding photography focuses on creating visually stunning images with a creative, almost painterly quality. It’s all about soft lighting, unique compositions, and a dream-like atmosphere. Fine art photographers often use film or digital techniques to enhance colors and textures, producing romantic, ethereal photographs.

     Couples drawn to this style appreciate its artistic qualities and its ability to turn wedding moments into works of art. A fine art Puerto Rico wedding photographer will use the island’s natural beauty—beaches, sunsets, and historic architecture—to craft a wedding album that feels more like a curated art collection than a series of typical wedding photos.

4. Photojournalistic Wedding Photography

April & Kyle at the Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde

     For couples who want their wedding day to be captured in a candid, unobtrusive way, photojournalistic photography is the perfect choice. This style focuses on documenting the day as it unfolds, capturing genuine emotions and spontaneous moments. Rather than posed shots, photojournalistic photographers prioritize storytelling through their lens.

     This approach is ideal for couples who want to relive the authentic emotions of their day. If you’re seeking wedding photographers in Puerto Rico who can document your day with minimal interference, a photojournalistic style will ensure your photos reflect real moments rather than staged ones. It's perfect for couples who value honesty and intimacy in their wedding images.

5. Film Wedding Photography

Film photography just hits different.

     Film wedding photography has seen a resurgence in recent years. The use of analog film gives photos a timeless, nostalgic quality that’s hard to replicate with digital cameras. Film photographers embrace imperfections like grain and natural lighting, which create a warm, authentic feel to wedding photos.

     Couples attracted to the film style often appreciate the slower, more thoughtful process of film photography. The results are usually one-of-a-kind images that carry a sense of history and sentimentality. For a truly unique wedding album, film photography offers an artisanal touch, and many wedding photographers in Puerto Rico have embraced this trend to create dreamy, vintage-inspired photographs.

Why Couples are Drawn to Each Style

     Each of these wedding photography styles offers something special. Traditional photography ensures that no key moments are missed and provides classic images that never go out of style. Editorial photography gives couples a chance to feel like fashion icons, creating glamorous and cinematic shots. Fine art photography, with its focus on beauty and creativity, turns each moment into a piece of artwork, while photojournalism captures raw emotions, preserving the essence of the day as it naturally unfolds. Lastly, film photography appeals to those who love the artistry and timelessness that analog cameras bring.

How to Choose the Right Style for You

     When choosing a photographer, it’s important to understand which style speaks to you as a couple. Are you drawn to the structured elegance of traditional photography, or do you prefer the raw, unscripted moments that photojournalism captures? The beauty of wedding photography lies in its diversity, and finding the right style is about matching your wedding day vision with the artistic approach that aligns with your personality and story.

Puerto Rico: A Perfect Backdrop for All Styles

     Whether you're having a destination wedding or you're a local couple, Puerto Rico offers a stunning backdrop for any wedding photography style. The island's vibrant culture, breathtaking beaches, and historic architecture provide the perfect setting for every kind of wedding. A Puerto Rico wedding photographer can harness the natural beauty of the island to enhance any photography style you choose, from the romance of fine art to the glamour of editorial shots.

Trust Your Photographer's Expertise

     It's important to trust the expertise of your chosen wedding photographer. Once you’ve decided on the style that resonates with you, let your photographer guide you through the process. Professional photographers understand how to bring out the best in their clients, ensuring that the photos reflect your personalities and the special connection you share.

It’s All About Your Vision

     There is no "best" wedding photography style. Each approach offers something unique, and what matters most is the vision you have for your wedding day. The right style is the one that makes you feel most comfortable and excited about your memories. Whether you're drawn to the elegance of traditional photography or the creative freedom of fine art, choosing a Puerto Rico wedding photographer who understands your vision will ensure you get a stunning album that tells the perfect story of your special day.

Ervin & Falisha Destination Wedding In Puerto Rico At Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde

Las Brisas at Courtyard Marriott Isla Verde

     Ervin and Falisha traveled all the way from New Jersey to tie the knot in the breathtaking setting of Isla Verde, Puerto Rico. As a Puerto Rico wedding photographer, I’ve seen many couples choose this gorgeous island for their special day, and it’s no surprise that Ervin and Falisha fell in love with it too. Their wedding, held at the Courtyard by Marriott, was intimate yet vibrant, showcasing the couple’s joyous spirit. The day began with their ceremony, as they chose to skip the traditional getting-ready shots. This gave us ample opportunity to capture stunning wide-angle shots of the venue, as well as intimate, tight portraits of the couple. It’s always a privilege to photograph a destination wedding in Puerto Rico, especially for couples like Ervin and Falisha, who wanted their day to focus on the moments that truly mattered.

     The Courtyard by Marriott in Isla Verde is one of the most versatile wedding venues in Puerto Rico, perfect for couples looking for both elegance and a laid-back tropical vibe. The ceremony took place outdoors, where palm trees and the shimmering ocean provided a naturally beautiful backdrop. As a Puerto Rico photographer, I strive to capture the essence of these lush surroundings, blending the couple’s love with the beauty of the location. The wide-angle shots during the ceremony perfectly framed the couple against the stunning landscape, adding depth and context to each image. While Ervin and Falisha opted for a simpler approach to the day’s schedule, the love and excitement shared by their family and friends created a lively atmosphere that was a joy to document.

Falisha was smitten.

     After the ceremony, we jumped right into family portraits. Having the freedom to focus on the interactions between Ervin, Falisha, and their loved ones made this part of the day particularly special. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love being a photographer in Puerto Rico. The natural warmth of the people, combined with the beauty of the island, offers an unmatched experience for capturing heartfelt moments. We took the time to photograph a variety of groupings, ensuring we captured all the key family dynamics. These images reflect not only the bond between Ervin and Falisha but also the strength and joy of their support system.

     For the bride and groom session, we took Ervin and Falisha down to the grassy area and onto the beach just as the sun was beginning to set. This was the perfect setting for romantic portraits, and as a Puerto Rico wedding photographer, I couldn’t have asked for better conditions. Using a combination of natural light and flash photography, we were able to highlight the couple’s happiness while showcasing the dramatic ocean backdrop. Wedding locations in Puerto Rico like Isla Verde offer such diverse settings, from tropical greenery to pristine beaches, allowing for a range of photographic styles. These images are some of my favorites from the day, as they truly encapsulate the love and joy between the couple.

Swoon!

     Once the bride and groom portraits were done, we headed back to Las Brisas, the venue’s indoor reception hall. The energy was palpable as guests eagerly awaited the couple’s entrance. The reception hall is one of the many fantastic wedding venues in Puerto Rico, offering a spacious area for dancing, toasts, and dining. As the evening progressed, I captured the speeches, the laughter, and the emotional moments between the couple and their guests. Ervin and Falisha’s first dance was especially moving, as the dimmed lighting and spotlights provided the perfect ambiance. Capturing these intimate moments is one of the greatest joys of being a Puerto Rico photographer, and this wedding was filled with countless memorable ones.

     The night continued with plenty of dancing and celebrations. Guests filled the dance floor, and as a photographer in Puerto Rico, I made sure to be right in the middle of the action. The vibrant energy of the crowd made for some lively and fun photos. I love how Puerto Rican wedding receptions blend the joy of the couple with the rich cultural elements of the island. The music, the food, and the energy of the people always create an unforgettable experience. I find myself smiling as I edit these shots, remembering how the night felt more like a giant family gathering than a traditional reception.

Smooches.

     One of the highlights of photographing a destination wedding in Puerto Rico is the opportunity to blend cultural traditions from the couple’s home country with the natural beauty and ambiance of the island. Ervin and Falisha’s New Jersey roots showed through in their playful interactions, but the island’s warmth embraced them fully, making the day feel magical. The combination of indoor and outdoor settings at the Courtyard by Marriott allowed for diverse photo opportunities, showcasing both the intimacy of their love and the grandeur of the landscape. This flexibility is one of the reasons why wedding locations in Puerto Rico are so appealing to couples from all over the world.

     As a Puerto Rico destination wedding photographer, I always encourage couples to take advantage of the island’s varied settings. Ervin and Falisha’s decision to have portraits on the beach, followed by their lively indoor reception, highlighted the best of both worlds. It was an honor to be part of their day, from capturing the serene beach moments to the energetic dancing at Las Brisas. The dynamic nature of their wedding allowed me to use different techniques, from natural light photography during the beach session to flash photography at the reception. This blend of styles is one of the many reasons why I love shooting weddings in Puerto Rico.

Lovebirds.

     When looking at wedding locations in Puerto Rico, the Courtyard by Marriott stands out as a venue that offers both convenience and beauty. Its proximity to the beach and the elegance of its indoor spaces make it an excellent choice for couples wanting a seamless transition between ceremony and reception. For Ervin and Falisha, this meant they could enjoy the island’s natural beauty without worrying about logistics, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in their day. As a Puerto Rico wedding photographer, I appreciated the thoughtful layout of the venue, which made capturing every important moment both easy and enjoyable.

     In conclusion, Ervin and Falisha’s Puerto Rico destination wedding was a day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. From the stunning ceremony by the beach to the lively reception at Las Brisas, every moment was a testament to their love and the support of their family and friends. As a Puerto Rico photographer, it’s weddings like these that remind me of the incredible privilege I have in documenting such meaningful moments. I’m grateful to have been part of their special day and look forward to capturing more beautiful love stories in wedding venues in Puerto Rico.

Storybook ending!