Meghan and Taylor had one wish for their wedding day: get married on the beach. So they did exactly that. They packed up 85 of their closest friends and family from Houston, Texas and headed to Mexico for a full week of sun, sand, and celebration. Taylor wore not one, not two, but three bridal dresses throughout the week. Meghan got to rock one sharp suit. Together, they partied with their people in a tropical oasis that felt like it was made for moments like this.

These Secrets Riviera Resort destination wedding photos from Cancun, Mexico tell the whole story.

Why Secrets Riviera Cancun is Perfect for a Beach Wedding

Secrets Riviera Resort & Spa sits right on the edge of the Caribbean Sea. The water is that deep blue-green color you only see in photos. The beach is soft and white. The whole place feels like a resort that was built for weddings.

For Meghan and Taylor, it was the perfect backdrop. Their guests had everything they needed right on the property. No one had to go far for food, drinks, or fun.

What Makes This Resort Stand Out

• Adults-only, all-inclusive resort
• Beachfront ceremony spaces
• Multiple wedding packages for couples
• On-site wedding coordinator
• Stunning natural light for photos at golden hour

Whether you have 10 guests or 85, this resort can handle it. It’s one of the most popular Cancun Mexico wedding venues for good reason.

A Week-Long Celebration to Remember

Most weddings last one day. Meghan and Taylor’s lasted a whole week.

Their guests flew in from all over to be part of it. Everyone stayed on the resort together. That meant pool days, late nights, group dinners, and lots of laughs before the big day even arrived.

What a Week-Long Destination Wedding Looks Like

Day	What Happens
Day 1-2	Guests arrive, welcome drinks, beach time
Day 3-4	Group activities, casual dinners, pool parties
Day 5	Wedding ceremony and reception on the beach
Day 6-7	Farewell brunches, last swim, goodbyes

When your wedding is a week-long event, the photos look completely different. You get real moments. Genuine laughs. Candid shots of people who are fully relaxed and having the time of their lives.

Taylor’s Three Dresses: A Photographer’s Dream

Three dresses. Yes, really.

Taylor changed outfits three times throughout the celebration. Each dress had its own look and its own feel. That gave us three completely different photo sessions to work with.

Why Multiple Outfits Work So Well in Beach Wedding Photography

• Each outfit creates a new visual story
• Different times of day, different lighting
• Shows off the couple’s personality
• Gives you more variety in your wedding gallery
• Makes the week feel even more special

Meghan’s suit was clean and sharp against every backdrop we shot in. Whether they were barefoot in the sand or standing at the water’s edge, the two of them looked like they belonged there.

The Photos: What to Expect From Secrets Riviera Wedding Photography

Good destination wedding photography in Cancun is not just about pretty backgrounds. It’s about catching the real stuff.

The way a dad hugs his daughter before she walks down the aisle. The group of friends jumping into the pool at midnight. The quiet moment between two people who just got married.

Key Moments We Captured

• Beach ceremony with the ocean as the backdrop
• Golden hour portraits on the sand
• Reception dancing and candid guest moments
• Details: rings, flowers, dresses laid flat
• Group shots with all 85 guests

When you have 85 people celebrating together for a week, there is no shortage of beautiful moments to photograph.

5 Tips for Planning Your Own Secrets Riviera Resort Destination Wedding in Cancun Mexico

Planning a Cancun Mexico beach wedding takes some prep. Here’s what we’ve learned from shooting destination weddings like Meghan and Taylor’s.

1. Book Your Photographer Early

The best photographers fill up fast. Once your venue date is set, reach out right away. Don’t wait. Especially when there is international travel involved.

2. Plan for Golden Hour

The light in Cancun around sunset is incredible. Build time into your schedule for beach portraits during that hour. You won’t regret it.

3. Communicate With Your Guests Early

Give your guests as much notice as possible. International travel takes planning. Send your save-the-dates at least 12 months out.

4. Work With the Resort’s Wedding Team

The Secrets Riviera wedding coordinators know the property better than anyone. Lean on them. They know which spots photograph best and how to keep things running on time.

5. Think About Multiple Outfit Changes

Like Taylor, consider having more than one look throughout the week. It adds variety to your photos and makes each moment feel different and fresh.

Recommended Vendors

A destination wedding this special takes a great team. Here’s who we’d point you toward:

• Photography: C’est Jolie Photography

FAQ About Destination Wedding Photography at Secrets Riviera Cancun

How far in advance should I book a destination wedding photographer?

At least 12 months out. Popular dates fill up quickly, especially during peak season in Mexico.

Do photographers travel to Cancun for destination weddings?

Yes. Many photographers, including C’est Jolie Photography, travel for destination weddings. Travel fees vary, so ask upfront.

What time of year is best for Secrets Riviera Resort wedding photos?

November through April is dry season in Cancun. The weather is beautiful and the light is great for outdoor photos.

How many photos will I get from a destination wedding?

It depends on the package and how many days are covered. A full week like Meghan and Taylor’s can result in hundreds of edited images.

Can I have a beach ceremony at Secrets Riviera Cancun?

Yes. The resort offers beachfront ceremony spaces as part of their wedding packages. It’s one of their most popular setups.

Do I need to hire a local photographer or can I bring one from home?

You can bring your own photographer. Many couples prefer to bring someone they already have a connection with. Prior to their wedding, we were able to take Taylor & Meghan’s engagement photos & civil ceremony back home in Houston, Texas. Having someone you trust means the world when photographing your wedding day.

Ready to Book Your Secrets Riviera Resort Destination Wedding Photos in Cancun Mexico?

If you’re planning a Cancun Mexico destination wedding and want photos that actually feel like your day, let’s talk. Whether you’re getting married at Secrets Riviera or another beach resort in Mexico, C’est Jolie Photography would love to be part of it.

Contact C’est Jolie Photography here to check availability and start planning your destination wedding photography.

There’s just something magical about love stories set against the charm of Baton Rouge’s Louisiana Old State Capitol. Maybe it’s the sweeping Gothic architecture, or the way natural light filters through those stunning stained-glass windows, or the fact that every corner feels like you’ve stepped into a romantic period drama.

Whatever it is, Kaitlyn and Tyler absolutely nailed their engagement session here, and I’m still swooning over the results.

When they first reached out about their engagement photos, Kaitlyn had a specific vision: elegant, timeless, and a little dramatic (in the best way). She wanted a location that felt special, somewhere that would make their photos feel like heirlooms they’d treasure forever.

Now, here’s where the story gets interesting. On the way to their session, the sound of absolute downpour began. Like, biblical rain. The kind where you question every life decision that involves leaving your house.

But here’s the thing about the Louisiana Old State Capitol, it’s basically a photographer’s weather insurance policy. Rain? No problem. We’re shooting inside one of the most gorgeous historic buildings in Louisiana.

So I made the drive from Lafayette to Baton Rouge (about an hour), hydroplaning half the way, and arrived absolutely soaked. My camera gear? Bone dry, thank goodness. Me? Looking like I’d just gone for a swim fully clothed.

Kaitlyn and Tyler were total troopers about the weather, and honestly? The rain ended up being a blessing. The building was quieter than usual, the dramatic weather outside made the warm lighting inside even more romantic, and we had the place practically to ourselves.

Why the Louisiana Old State Capitol Is an Engagement Photo Dream

Let me paint you a picture of why this spot consistently ranks as one of the best Baton Rouge engagement photo locations.

First, there’s the architecture. We’re talking soaring Gothic Revival design with intricate details at every turn. The iconic spiral staircases? Absolute perfection for romantic portraits. The cast-iron work, the vaulted ceilings, the museum-quality interior, it all creates this incredible atmosphere that’s both grand and intimate at the same time.

What makes couples fall in love with this location:

• Historic charm that photographs like a dream (built in 1847, this building has stories)
• Indoor and outdoor variety (weather backup? We’ve got options.)
• Weather-proof perfection (as someone who drove through a monsoon from Lafayette for this session, I can confirm)
• Soft, flattering light that streams through those gorgeous windows
• A timeless aesthetic that won’t look dated in 20 years
• Architectural drama without being over-the-top

Here’s the thing about shooting Louisiana Old State Capitol engagement photos: the location does a lot of the heavy lifting. Your photographer (hi, that’s me!) just needs to position you in the right light and let the magic happen.

And on rainy days? This place becomes even more special. While the rest of Baton Rouge was getting drenched, we were inside creating absolute magic.

Local photographer tip: This venue works beautifully year-round since most of the best shots happen indoors. Rain or shine, you’re covered.

Kaitlyn & Tyler’s Vision Comes to Life

Can we talk about how perfectly Kaitlyn and Tyler prepared for this session? Because they absolutely understood the assignment.

Kaitlyn wore this gorgeous flowing dress in a soft champagne color that complemented the building’s warm tones without competing with the architectural details. Tyler kept it classic in dress pants and a crisp button-down—sophisticated without being stuffy. Together, they looked like they belonged in a Vogue editorial, but in the most natural, approachable way.

But here’s what really made their session special: their chemistry. Some couples need a little warming up in front of the camera (totally normal!), but these two? They were naturals. The way Tyler looked at Kaitlyn when she laughed, the comfortable way they moved together, it reminded me why I love being a wedding & portrait photographer.

One of my favorite moments from the shoot: We were on the spiral staircase (you know the one, it’s iconic for a reason), and I asked them to just talk to each other about their wedding plans. Within seconds, they were laughing about their disagreement over cake flavors, completely forgetting I was even there. That’s when the best photos happen, when couples stop “posing” and start just being themselves.

Spoiler alert: zero awkwardness. Just genuine connection and a whole lot of love.

Oh, and can we appreciate how calm they were about the weather? They could’ve rescheduled (honestly, I would’ve understood), but they trusted the process. That’s the kind of couples I love working with—the ones who know that sometimes the “imperfect” days create the most perfect memories.

Your Guide to Planning Engagement Photos at the Louisiana Old State Capitol

Okay, let’s get practical for a minute. If you’re considering this location for your own engagement session, here’s everything you need to know:

Timing Is Everything

Best times for shooting:

• Late morning (10am-11am): Beautiful natural light without harsh shadows
• Early afternoon (1pm-3pm): Consistent lighting throughout the interior
• Weekdays when possible: Fewer visitors, more privacy for your session

The building’s interior lighting is pretty forgiving, which is great news. Unlike outdoor locations where you’re racing against golden hour, we have flexibility here.

What to Wear (Because Yes, It Matters)

Think elegant and timeless. This isn’t the place for super casual looks—the grandeur of the space calls for something a little more elevated.

Outfit suggestions that photograph beautifully:

• Flowing dresses or tailored separates
• Soft neutrals, champagne tones, or classic navy
• Avoid busy patterns (they compete with the architecture)
• Choose complementary colors rather than exact matches
• Comfortable dress shoes (trust me on this one)

The Logistics You Need to Know

Here’s the real talk about shooting engagement photos in Baton Rouge Louisiana at this location:

Access and permits: The Louisiana Old State Capitol is a functioning museum and event space. Depending on the day and whether there are events scheduled, you may need permission for a professional photo shoot. The good news? I handle all that coordination for my couples. I’ve built relationships with the venue and know exactly how to navigate the process.

Entry fees: The best part is this location is free for engagement photos!

Plan B ready: While the indoor spaces are reliable, if you’re planning any exterior shots around the grounds, I always have backup timing in mind based on weather.

Pro tip from your photographer: Wear comfortable shoes! Those gorgeous marble stairs and floors look amazing in photos, but they’re not the most forgiving for an hour-long session. I recommend bringing a cute pair of heels for specific shots and comfortable flats for walking between locations.

Why Baton Rouge Keeps Winning for Engagement Photography

Living and working as a photographer in this city has given me such appreciation for what Baton Rouge brings to the table. We’ve got this perfect blend of Southern charm, historic architecture, and natural beauty that creates endless possibilities for engagement photos.

Beyond the Old State Capitol, couples love:

• Downtown Baton Rouge’s murals and urban aesthetic
• Mississippi River views (especially at sunset)
• Spanish Town’s historic neighborhoods
• LSU’s campus for college sweethearts
• City Park for that natural, green backdrop

There’s something about this city that makes every photo feel a little more romantic, a little more meaningful. Maybe it’s the history soaked into every building, or the way the live oaks create natural canopies, or just the fact that love and good food are basically Baton Rouge’s whole vibe.

Ready to Create Your Own Love Story in Pictures?

If you’re dreaming of engagement photos that feel timeless, romantic, and completely you, I’d love to chat about bringing that vision to life.

My photography style is all about capturing genuine connection—the real laughs, the quiet moments, the way you two interact when you think no one’s watching. I keep colors true to life and warm, because your photos should look like your actual love story, not some heavily filtered version of it.

Whether you’re set on the Louisiana Old State Capitol or still exploring the best Baton Rouge engagement photo locations for your style, I’m here to help you navigate the process from start to finish.

What’s included in my engagement sessions:

• Location scouting and permit coordination (I handle the logistics)
• Professional guidance on timing, outfits, and posing
• 60-90 minutes of shooting time (no rushing, I promise)
• A gorgeous gallery of edited images you’ll treasure forever
• Advice on incorporating your engagement photos into save-the-dates, wedding websites, and more

Check out my portfolio to see more love stories I’ve captured, or reach out here to start planning your session.

Everything You’re Wondering About Engagement Photos (Answered)

Do I need a permit to take photos at the Louisiana Old State Capitol?

It depends on the day and event schedule, but professional photography sessions typically require coordination with the venue. Here’s the good news: I handle all of that for you. I’ve worked with this location multiple times and know exactly what’s needed to secure access for your session. One less thing for you to worry about!

What’s the best time of year for engagement photos in Baton Rouge?

Spring and fall are absolutely gorgeous, think mild weather, comfortable temperatures, and beautiful natural scenery if we’re incorporating outdoor shots. That said, because the Old State Capitol offers such stunning indoor spaces, we can create beautiful engagement photos in Baton Rouge year-round. Summer? We stay cool inside. Winter? The dramatic lighting is even more beautiful.

How long does an engagement session usually last?

I typically schedule 60-90 minutes for engagement sessions. This gives us plenty of time to explore different areas of the venue, try various poses and compositions, and, most importantly, let you relax and warm up to being in front of the camera. The best photos always happen once you’ve settled into the rhythm of the session.

What should we wear for our engagement photos at the Old State Capitol?

Choose outfits that feel elevated and elegant to match the grandeur of the space. Soft neutrals, flowing fabrics, and classic silhouettes photograph beautifully against the Gothic architecture. I always recommend coordinating your looks (complementary colors rather than matching) and avoiding busy patterns that compete with the architectural details. And remember: comfort matters! You want to feel confident and like yourself in whatever you’re wearing.

Can we bring props or include personal touches?

Absolutely! While the venue itself provides plenty of visual interest, personal touches that tell your story are always welcome. Some couples bring champagne for a celebratory toast shot, others incorporate meaningful items like the box he proposed with or a family heirloom. Just run your ideas by me beforehand so we can plan how to incorporate them naturally.

What if we’re nervous about being in front of the camera?

You’re not alone, most couples feel this way! Here’s my promise: I’ll guide you through everything. I’m not going to just say “stand there and smile.” Instead, I’ll give you prompts that create natural interaction and genuine emotion. By the end of the session, most couples forget I’m even there with a camera. That’s when the magic happens.

Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together

If you’re dreaming of romantic, timeless engagement photos at this stunning Baton Rouge landmark (or anywhere else that speaks to your love story), I’d be honored to help make that vision come to life.

Your engagement is such a special season, full of excitement, planning, and dreaming about your future together. These photos will help you remember not just how you looked, but how you felt during this incredible time.

Ready to get started? Contact me here to check my availability and learn more about my engagement photography packages. I can’t wait to hear your love story and start planning a session that feels authentically you.

Currently booking engagement sessions throughout Lafayette, Baton Rouge, New Orleans and the surrounding areas. Let’s make something magical together!

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You know that feeling when you’ve been part of someone’s story from the very beginning? That’s exactly how I felt walking into Sebastian and Taylor’s home last Tuesday morning, camera in hand, ready to meet their newest family member.

I’ve had the incredible privilege of photographing this sweet couple since their pregnancy announcement (cue all the happy tears), through their glowing maternity session, and now—the moment we’d all been waiting for—their precious daughter Eliana’s first portrait session.

Their Lafayette home was filled with that unmistakable new-baby energy. Soft morning light streamed through the nursery windows, casting the most gorgeous natural glow. The house smelled faintly of coffee and baby lotion, and honestly? It was pure magic.

Why At-Home Newborn Sessions Hit Different (And Why Your Baby Will Thank You)

Listen, I’ve shot newborns in studios, parks, and even a few unconventional locations over the years. But nothing—and I mean nothing—beats the comfort and authenticity of at-home newborn photography in Lafayette, LA.

Here’s the real talk: newborns don’t care about your Pinterest board or your carefully planned shot list. They care about being comfortable, fed, and close to mama. And guess where they’re most comfortable? Yep, home sweet home.

The at-home advantage includes: • Zero travel stress (because let’s be honest, leaving the house with a newborn feels like planning a military operation) • Baby-led timing (hungry baby? We pause. Diaper blowout? We handle it.) • Personal touches everywhere (that nursery you spent months perfecting? It’s getting photographed.) • Family pets can join (more on Sebastian and Taylor’s adorable pups later!)

Pro tip: I always tell my families to think of me as that friend who happens to have a really good camera. We’re just hanging out, capturing real moments as they happen.

Meet Miss Eliana (Spoiler Alert: She’s Perfect)

Can we talk about this little angel for a second? Eliana made her grand entrance just two weeks ago, and she’s already mastered the art of being absolutely precious.

She’s got this incredible head of dark hair that sticks up in the most adorable way (Sebastian swears she gets it from his side), and these tiny, perfect little fingers that kept curling around anything they could grab—including my camera strap during one particularly sweet moment.

But what really got me? Watching Sebastian and Taylor together during the session. The way Taylor would instinctively adjust Eliana’s little hat, how Sebastian’s entire face would light up every time his daughter made even the tiniest sound. These are the moments that make lifestyle newborn photography so incredibly rewarding.

Fun fact: Eliana slept through about 80% of our session, but her most beautiful portraits happened during those brief awake moments when she was just quietly observing the world around her.

The Session Highlights (AKA The Moments That Made My Heart Melt)

Cozy Morning Cuddles with Mama

We started in the master bedroom, where the light was just chef’s kiss. Taylor, still in her favorite nursing-friendly pajamas (because comfort first, always), settled into the reading chair by the window with Eliana.

The natural light was doing all the heavy lifting—no fancy studio setup needed. Just a mama and her baby girl, sharing quiet morning moments while dad made coffee in the background. These are the images that will matter most in 20 years.

Family Connection in All the Right Places

The nursery was our next stop, and wow. Sebastian and Taylor had created this beautiful, serene space with soft blues and creams. We captured some gorgeous family portraits right there in Eliana’s room, surrounded by all the love and preparation that had gone into creating her special space.

But honestly? Some of my favorite family shots happened in the living room, everyone piled onto the sectional sofa, dogs included. Real life is messy and beautiful, and that’s exactly what we captured.

The Little Details That Matter Most

Close-up shots included: • Those impossibly tiny fingernails • Eliana’s sweet little rosebud lips • Her perfectly formed ears (seriously, newborn ears are works of art) • The way her hand looked so small in daddy’s palm

I also made sure to photograph some of the special details in her nursery—the handmade quilt from Taylor’s grandmother, the little shoes Sebastian bought the day they found out they were having a girl, the “E” initial hanging above her crib.

And Yes, the Dogs Were Absolutely Included

Can we take a moment to appreciate Sebastian and Taylor’s two golden retrievers? These sweet pups have been preparing for their new sister for months, and they were so gentle during our outdoor portion of the session.

We captured some beautiful family portraits in their backyard, dogs flanking the new parents while Eliana slept peacefully in Taylor’s arms. Fair warning: these shots might make you cry happy tears.

Real Talk: My Best Tips for Amazing Newborn Photos

After seven years of newborn photography in Lafayette, LA, I’ve learned a few things about what makes sessions successful. Here’s what I always tell expecting parents:

Timing Is Everything

Book during your second trimester. Seriously. My calendar fills up fast, especially during baby boom seasons (looking at you, September babies). Plus, having your photographer locked in is one less thing to worry about during those hectic final weeks.

Keep It Simple and Comfortable

• Neutral clothing photographs beautifully and won’t compete with your baby for attention
• Layer up (newborn sessions can involve some skin-to-skin shots, and houses can get chilly)
• Comfort over fashion, always (those designer jeans can wait)

Don’t Stress About the Fussy Moments

Here’s a secret: some of my most beloved images happen during feeding breaks, diaper changes, or when parents are soothing a cranky baby. Real life isn’t perfect, and neither are the best photographs.

Feed Baby Right Before I Arrive

A fed baby is a sleepy baby, and sleepy babies are cooperative babies. It’s photographer math, and it works every time.

Why These Moments Matter More Than You Think

There’s something profound about documenting a family’s growth from the very beginning. Every session with Sebastian and Taylor has told a piece of their story—the excitement of expecting, the glow of pregnancy, and now the pure joy of welcoming Eliana home.

These aren’t just pretty pictures (though they are that too). They’re time capsules. They’re proof of love, growth, and the beautiful chaos that comes with expanding your family.

Sebastian told me during our session that he keeps looking at their maternity photos on the mantel and can hardly believe that the tiny person he’s now holding was once just a bump in those pictures. That’s the magic of photography—it helps us remember not just how things looked, but how they felt.

Thank you, Sebastian and Taylor, for trusting me with these precious milestones. Watching your love story unfold, chapter by chapter, has been one of the greatest privileges of my career.

Ready to Capture Your Family’s Story?

If you’re expecting in the Lafayette area and want newborn portraits that feel authentically you—not posed, not forced, just real—let’s start planning your session.

I only take on a limited number of newborn sessions each month to ensure every family gets the time and attention they deserve. Don’t wait until baby arrives to book; the best dates fill up fast.

Ready to get started? Contact me here to chat about creating beautiful, timeless portraits of your newest family member.

P.S. – Yes, your pets are absolutely welcome in your session. Some of my favorite family portraits include four-legged siblings!

Your wedding story lives in the big moments and tiny details. The kiss at the altar. Your grandma’s pearl earrings. The cologne your partner wore on your first date.

I’m a Louisiana wedding photographer who captures both. Great detail photos don’t happen by accident though. They need prep work.

When you have everything ready, we capture those sweet moments without rushing around.

What Are Wedding Day Details?

Detail photos are close-ups of your wedding items. Rings, shoes, invitations, and personal touches.

These photos fill in your story between big moments. Your kids will flip through your album someday and see the watch you wore.

The Wedding Detail Box

Get a pretty box or basket. Put all your wedding details inside it. Hand this to your photographer when they arrive.

No hunting for earrings. No scrambling for cufflinks. Pack it the night before your wedding.

Wedding Day Details Checklist

For the Bride:

• Wedding dress and veil
• Shoes
• All jewelry
• Perfume bottle
• Hair accessories

For the Groom:

• Suit or tux and tie
• Shoes and belt
• Cufflinks and watch
• Cologne bottle

For Both:

• Wedding invitation suite
• Wedding rings and ring box
• Vow books
• Love letters to each other
• Family heirlooms

Photographer’s Tips

Get extra flowers. Magnolia branches or Louisiana iris work beautifully if they’re in season.

Clean your rings the night before. They’ll sparkle in photos.

Lay everything out before bed. You’ll spot anything missing while there’s time to fix it.

Bonus Items That Add Personality

• Champagne bottle and glasses
• Something old, new, borrowed, blue items
• Second line handkerchiefs (for New Orleans style celebrations)
• Family recipes in grandma’s handwriting
• Mardi Gras beads passed down through generations

These items make your detail photos feel like you and your Louisiana roots.

Quick FAQs

Q: When do you take detail shots? A: During the first 30 minutes of getting ready.

Q: Should I give you my bouquet early? A: Yes! It makes flat lay photos look incredible.

Q: How long do detail photos take? A: About 15-20 minutes if everything is ready.

Final Thoughts

The couples who get the best detail photos plan ahead. They gather items that matter to them.

Beautiful detail shots start with good preparation.

Ready for Detail Photos That Tell Your Story?

If you want a photographer who cares about every little detail, from your rings to your invitation suite, let’s chat about your wedding day vision.

Contact me today to talk about your wedding photography needs.