When it comes to destination weddings, the setting may change, but the need for a skilled, intuitive photographer will always remain. The right photographer doesn’t just take beautiful images—they translate atmosphere, navigate the unpredictable, and bring a sense of calm to the chaos, creating imagery that transcends both location and time.
From the Tuscan hills to the Balinese tropics, renowned wedding photographer Joy Zamora has captured love stories across the globe—and knows better than most what sets a true destination professional apart. So, we asked him what truly matters. His advice? Look beyond the portfolio. From logistical prowess to local knowledge and reading light in unfamiliar landscapes, here’s what to expect from a photographer who’s not just along for the ride, but essential to the journey.
They Can Travel
Internationally Like a Pro
I know it might sound obvious, but your destination wedding photographer should be someone who’s used to traveling regularly. A lot can happen during a trip, and being prepared to handle the unexpected is key—from knowing what gear can be taken into the country and what can’t. Understanding the local customs, traditions, or simply speaking multiple languages to get around more easily is incredibly helpful. Destination weddings involve a lot of behind-the-scenes logistics to ensure everything runs smoothly. A destination wedding photographer needs to be versatile and know how to navigate this environment.
A Proven Global Wedding
Portfolio (Not Just Styled Shoots)
We live in a time where many photographers are eager to build an international portfolio to land destination weddings. And while that’s totally understandable and respectable, sometimes their portfolio doesn’t truly reflect what they’re capable of—because they haven’t actually photographed full weddings abroad. That extra experience makes a huge difference in the final gallery. Make sure they can show you full previous weddings they’ve shot, not just styled shoots or snippets.
Tailored Packages that
Think Beyond the Day Rate
The services a destination wedding photographer offers should be aligned with what couples planning this kind of wedding actually need. For example: multi-day coverage, clearly outlined travel and accommodation costs, and a flexible approach. To me, it’s essential that the packages are tailored to provide the best possible experience. The needs of a destination wedding couple are not the same as those of a local wedding—and the photographer should know how to meet them.
An Eye for Capturing
the Spirit of the Setting
When someone chooses to get married in another part of the world—and bring all their loved ones there—it’s because they’re truly passionate about that place. Make sure the photographer you hire gives the location the attention it deserves. In a destination wedding, the setting is almost like another character in the story, and it holds a special connection to the couple’s journey. Ask your photographer if they also focus on capturing those details—landscapes, architecture, small elements, and even the local traditions.
A Natural at Working
the Light—Anywhere, Anytime
I’m not saying anything new when I say that light varies greatly around the world. Understanding how light works and being able to shoot accordingly is essential. I can assure you that a wedding in Cairo won’t have the same conditions as one in Costa Rica or Tuscany. Knowing how to read the light and adapt your shooting style is fundamental.
Goes the Extra Mile—Before,
During & Beyond the Day
To be a destination wedding photographer, I believe you need an extra layer of passion for this work. It’s amazing when you find someone who’s not just showing up on the wedding day to do their 10 hours and leave. Doing proper scouting to find unique and meaningful photo opportunities is key. And even better if your photographer genuinely enjoys the experience and can offer you local tips—not just on where and how to shoot, but also on experiences that will make your time there more authentic and unforgettable.
A Visual Style That
Transcends Borders
A destination wedding photographer needs something that’s hard to define—but it’s that ability to capture everything in a timeless, international way. If a photographer is too culturally or artistically tied to their place of origin, they might not be able to fully convey what makes a destination wedding truly unique. To understand what I mean, look at their Instagram feed or website: it shouldn’t be easy to guess where they’re from. That’s a sign they’ve developed a style and visual language that works beautifully anywhere in the world.
Reliable, Resourceful,
and Prepared with a Plan B
There’s something many people don’t consider: what happens if something unexpected happens to your photographer just days—or even hours—before the wedding? Make sure the photographer you hire has solid contacts and a backup plan in place in case the worst happens. Of course, this isn’t something that happens often. But from my point of view, a destination wedding photographer should almost always include a second shooter in their packages—someone who could cover the wedding if needed.
