Puerto Vallarta Photographer | Professional Wedding & Family Photography Team
Looking for an experienced Puerto Vallarta photographer for your destination wedding or family vacation? You’ve found the right team.
At Vallarta Photo, we’re not just photographers in Puerto Vallarta—we’re a close-knit team of photography specialists with over 15 years of experience capturing life’s most important moments. Led by award-winning Puerto Vallarta photographer Evgenia Kostiaeva, our team has documented hundreds of weddings, engagements, proposals, and family sessions for US and Canadian couples throughout Mexico’s Pacific coast.
Unlike solo photographers, our team-based approach means you get consistent quality with the security of built-in backup coverage. Whether you’re planning an intimate beach elopement at Playa Conchas Chinas, a luxury resort wedding at Dreams Villamagna or Hyatt Ziva, or a family photoshoot during your vacation, we know every venue, every lighting condition, and every hidden gem in Puerto Vallarta.
Why Choose Vallarta Photo as Your Puerto Vallarta Photographer?
We understand that choosing photographers in Puerto Vallarta for your destination celebration is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. After all, these images will be how you remember one of the best days of your life. Here’s what sets Vallarta Photo apart:
Team-Based Security: This is our biggest differentiator. When you book a solo Puerto Vallarta photographer, what happens if they get sick or have an emergency? With our team approach, you’re covered. We have multiple professional photographers ready to step in, ensuring your day is beautifully documented no matter what.
Local Expertise: We live in Puerto Vallarta year-round. We know how the light falls at Playa Los Muertos at 5 PM versus Punta Mita at sunset. We understand resort vendor policies, we’ve built relationships with coordinators at every major venue, and we can navigate the unique logistics of destination weddings in Mexico with ease.
Consistent Quality: Every photographer on our team is trained in Evgenia’s signature style—clean, elegant, timeless images that focus on authentic emotion rather than heavy filters or trendy editing. You get the consistency of a signature aesthetic with the flexibility and reliability of a full team.
Fast Turnaround: We pride ourselves on delivering your edited gallery within three weeks of your wedding or session. No months of waiting, no chasing your photographer for updates. We know you’re excited to share your images, and we make it happen quickly.
Understanding of US & Canadian Couples: Most of our clients travel from the United States and Canada, and we understand exactly what you need. Clear communication in English, familiarity with North American wedding traditions, timeline planning that accounts for your guests’ travel schedules, and pricing transparency in USD.
Why Hire Local Puerto Vallarta Photographers Instead of Flying Someone In
Many couples wonder whether to hire local Puerto Vallarta photographers or fly in a photographer from home. It’s a fair question, and here’s the honest answer: hiring a local Puerto Vallarta photographer typically costs 40-60% less than bringing someone from the US or Canada—and you get significantly better local expertise.
When you fly in a photographer from the US or Canada, you’re paying their standard destination wedding rate (typically $4,000-$10,000) plus covering their airfare, hotel accommodations for 2-3 nights, meals, and often a travel day fee. The total easily reaches $6,000-$12,000.
As established photographers in Puerto Vallarta, we know how weather patterns shift throughout the year, we understand which beaches require permits for commercial photography, and we’ve shot at virtually every resort and private venue in the area. When unexpected weather moves your beach ceremony to a covered terrace, we don’t panic—we’ve photographed there dozens of times and know exactly how to make it beautiful.
Our photography packages range from intimate elopement coverage to full multi-day wedding documentation, all priced transparently in USD for your convenience. And because we’re local, there are no travel fees, no time zone complications for planning calls, and we can even meet with you in person if you visit Puerto Vallarta before your wedding.
Of course, if you have a personal connection with a photographer who shot your engagement or you’re seeking a highly specific editorial style that no local photographer offers, flying someone in might make sense. But for most couples, hiring local Puerto Vallarta photographers delivers exceptional value, better logistics, and photographers who genuinely understand the destination wedding landscape here.
Meet Your Puerto Vallarta Photographer Team
Let us introduce you to the talented photographers and videographers ready to capture your Puerto Vallarta celebration:
Hi, I’m Evgenia Kostiaeva, the founder of Vallarta Photo and a destination wedding photographer in Puerto Vallarta. My photography style is simple, elegant, and fresh—images that transmit love and happiness without heavy editing or trendy filters that will look dated in a few years.
I carefully compose each shot before clicking the shutter, which is why my photos don’t require months of editing and are delivered within three weeks of your wedding. I’ve been photographing weddings in Puerto Vallarta for over 15 years, and I’ve been honored with the WeddingWire Couples Choice Award every year from 2019 through 2024.
I know how much effort you’ve put into your special day. I understand your feelings and your commitment to each other. I recognize the importance of finding the perfect dress, the perfect venue, and the perfect photographer to preserve these memories. You need someone who can capture not just what your wedding looked like, but how it felt—the emotions, the tears of joy, the spontaneous laughter.
My goal is to create photographs that will transport you back to this day even 25 years from now. I understand the trust my clients place in me, and I take that responsibility seriously. These aren’t just pictures—they’re your legacy, the images your children and grandchildren will cherish.
Follow Evgenia: @evgeniakostiaeva
Alina – Destination Wedding Photographer, Puerto Vallarta
Hola, this is Alina—a professional wedding and family photographer based in Puerto Vallarta, originally from the vibrant and culturally rich Mexico City. My love for photography began at an early age, inspired by my father, a talented painter known for his colorful and joyful artistic style. His creative influence helped shape my approach to visual storytelling, blending emotion, light, and beauty into every image I create.
As a wedding and portrait photographer in Puerto Vallarta, I specialize in capturing authentic moments filled with love, connection, and joy. Whether I’m photographing intimate beach weddings, lively family sessions, or romantic elopements, I aim to preserve memories that feel natural and timeless. Puerto Vallarta’s stunning landscapes and golden light provide the perfect backdrop for my photography style, which is both warm and documentary-inspired.
I enjoy capturing the essence of special moments while incorporating the rich traditions and colors of Mexican culture. My work is not just about taking beautiful pictures—it’s about telling your story in a way that feels personal and meaningful.
My passion for storytelling is evident in every session I shoot. I believe the best photos happen when you feel comfortable and truly yourself. That’s why I take time to connect with every couple and family I work with, ensuring your experience is relaxed, fun, and unforgettable.
Jose Carrillo – Puerto Vallarta Wedding & Lifestyle Photographer
Hello, I’m Jose, a wedding and lifestyle photographer based in the stunning paradise of Puerto Vallarta.
As a son, brother, husband, father, and friend, I feel incredibly fortunate to participate in and appreciate the beauty of this art form. Photography allows me to capture the essence of life’s most precious moments, and I am passionate about creating images that tell your unique story.
My steadfast goal is to craft something genuinely personal and unique for you, reflecting the essence of your individuality. With a deep love for the art and a commitment to excellence, I strive to deliver photographs that not only meet but exceed your expectations, capturing the beauty and significance of every moment they represent.
Whether it’s a dreamy wedding on the beach, a romantic sunset session at Playa Conchas Chinas, or a candid lifestyle portrait, I am dedicated to making your memories timeless and unforgettable.
Prometey – Wedding Videographer, Puerto Vallarta
I’m Prometey, a passionate videographer and content creator based in Puerto Vallarta, specializing in weddings and events. With a keen eye for detail and a love for storytelling, I capture the essence of every celebration, turning moments into timeless visual narratives.
My work reflects a perfect blend of creativity and technical expertise, ensuring that each video not only documents the occasion but also evokes the emotions and memories that make each event unique. Whether it’s a grand destination wedding or an intimate gathering, I take pride in understanding my clients’ visions and bringing them to life with precision and artistry.
By combining innovative techniques with a deep appreciation for the beauty of Puerto Vallarta, I create captivating content that resonates with viewers and stands the test of time. My dedication to my craft is evident in every frame, making your special moments unforgettable.
What’s Included When You Hire a Puerto Vallarta Photographer for Your Wedding
When you book Vallarta Photo as your Puerto Vallarta photographers, you’re getting much more than beautiful images—you’re hiring a complete team dedicated to documenting your destination wedding with care and professionalism. Here’s what’s included in a typical wedding photography package:
- Pre-Wedding Consultation: We discuss your vision, review your schedule, and plan your must-have shots—whether it’s a sunset kiss on Sayulita beach, candid moments during the Punta Mita reception, or formal family portraits at your resort.
- Coverage on Your Wedding Day: Tailored to fit your timeline, our packages range from a few hours for intimate elopements to full-day documentation capturing everything from getting-ready moments to the last dance. We work discreetly and efficiently, so you can be fully present while we handle the photography.
- Mix of Candid and Posed Images: We capture both the big emotions and the little details—the lace on your dress, the gleam of your wedding bands, your grandmother’s tears during the ceremony, spontaneous laughter during cocktail hour, and those perfectly composed couple portraits during golden hour.
- Same-Day Sneak Peeks: We know you’re eager to see a few highlights! We deliver a handful of beautifully edited preview images within 24-48 hours so you can share the joy with friends and family back home while you’re still celebrating in Puerto Vallarta.
- Fully Edited Gallery in Three Weeks: Unlike many photographers who take 8-12 weeks to deliver, we pride ourselves on fast turnaround. Your complete gallery of professionally edited images—true-to-life colors, clean edits, no heavy filters—is ready within three weeks of your wedding.
- Customizable Add-Ons: Need extra coverage hours? Want a second photographer for simultaneous getting-ready shots? Interested in an engagement session on the beach before your wedding day? Considering drone photography? We offer flexible add-ons so your package grows with your needs.
Most importantly, you get peace of mind knowing you’ve hired experienced photographers in Puerto Vallarta who understand destination weddings, have backup equipment for every scenario, and operate as a team—so if the unexpected happens, your wedding is still beautifully documented.
photographers offer options ranging from a few hours to full-day documentation, so you get everything from getting-ready laughter to the last dance.
- A mix of candid and gently posed images that highlight both the big emotions and the little details—think the lace on your dress, the gleam of your wedding bands, and your guests’ spontaneous joy.
- Sneak peeks delivered the same day, so you don’t have to wait weeks to relive a few highlights.
- A beautifully edited gallery with true-to-life colors and timeless, clean edits, ready for you within three weeks—no endless waiting or heavy filters obscuring real moments.
- Customizable add-ons, like extra hours, a second shooter, or an engagement session, so your package grows with your needs.
Of course, turnaround time is important—you want those memories fresh! That’s why most pros here pride themselves on fast, reliable delivery so you can share and revisit your day without delay.
Understanding Coverage Hours for Puerto Vallarta Weddings
When planning your Puerto Vallarta wedding photography, it’s helpful to understand how coverage hours work and what duration best suits your celebration. Most photographers in Puerto Vallarta offer packages with minimum booking times ranging from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the scope of your event.
2-Hour Coverage ($800-$1,200): Perfect for intimate elopements or very small ceremonies with just a few guests. This typically covers ceremony preparation, the ceremony itself, and portraits immediately afterward during golden hour.
4-Hour Coverage ($1,200-$1,800): Ideal for small weddings or couples who want essential coverage without extensive getting-ready or reception documentation. You’ll have time for final preparations, the ceremony, family and couple portraits, and the beginning of your cocktail hour or small reception.
6-Hour Coverage ($1,800-$2,500): A popular choice for mid-sized celebrations. This allows coverage of getting ready, the ceremony, extensive portrait time, cocktail hour, and the first portion of your reception including dinner, toasts, and first dances.
8-Hour Coverage ($2,200-$3,500): The standard for full-day wedding coverage. Eight hours gives you comprehensive documentation from both partners getting ready (especially valuable with a second shooter covering each person separately), ceremony, portraits, full reception coverage, and even late-night dancing if you time it right.
10-12 Hour Coverage ($3,500-$6,000): For elaborate celebrations or couples who want every moment captured. This extensive coverage accommodates morning preparation starting in early afternoon, ceremony, sunset portraits, complete reception documentation, and even a day-after beach session if you schedule it.
Keep in mind Puerto Vallarta’s golden hour—that magical soft light photographers love—happens around 6:00-7:00 PM during peak wedding season (November through May). Many couples schedule their ceremonies to end just before this window, allowing time for stunning beach portraits in perfect light. When planning your coverage hours, make sure they extend through this beautiful time if sunset photos are important to you.
What Makes Our Puerto Vallarta Photography Team Different
You have many options when choosing photographers in Puerto Vallarta, so why choose Vallarta Photo specifically? Beyond our experience and awards, here’s what truly sets us apart:
We Actually Live Here: We’re not photographers who fly in occasionally for destination weddings. Puerto Vallarta is our home. We know the secret beaches, the best times for photos at popular locations, how to work around cruise ship crowds at the Malecon, and which resort coordinators are wonderful to work with. This local knowledge is invaluable on your wedding day.
Weather Pattern Expertise: Living here year-round means we understand Puerto Vallarta’s microclimates and seasonal patterns intimately. We know that January mornings might be slightly hazy but clear beautifully by afternoon, that March offers breathtaking golden hours but they’re brief, and that September’s dramatic storm clouds can create stunning backdrops if you embrace them. We don’t just check the weather forecast—we understand it deeply.
Established Venue Relationships: We’ve photographed at virtually every major resort and private venue in the Puerto Vallarta area—Dreams Villamagna, Hyatt Ziva, Hard Rock Vallarta, Villa del Palmar, Playa Fiesta, and countless private villas and beaches. We know which resorts are flexible with photography locations and which have strict rules, we have working relationships with coordinators who trust us, and we can navigate property-specific policies efficiently.
Same Time Zone Communication: Because we operate in Central Time (same as much of the US and Canada), communication is seamless. Need to discuss your timeline at 7 PM your time? We’re available. Last-minute venue change? We can visit and assess the new location within hours, not days.
Team Backup for Peace of Mind: This deserves emphasis because it’s such a significant advantage. When you book a solo photographer—even an excellent one—you’re vulnerable to the unexpected. What if they get sick? What if they have a family emergency? Solo photographers sometimes have referral relationships with colleagues, but there’s no guarantee of quality or style consistency. With Vallarta Photo’s team approach, you have built-in backup. If one photographer faces an emergency, another team member who knows your plan, your vision, and our style steps in seamlessly. It’s the security solo photographers simply cannot offer.
Consistent Editing Style: Every image delivered by Vallarta Photo reflects Evgenia’s signature aesthetic—clean, timeless, true-to-life editing that won’t look dated in 20 years. Whether Evgenia, Alina, or Jose shoots your wedding, you get consistent quality because we all train together and share the same artistic vision.
Frequently Asked Questions About Puerto Vallarta Photographers
Do I need to pay for my photographer’s travel costs?
As local Puerto Vallarta photographers, we include all travel within the greater Puerto Vallarta area in our package pricing—the hotel zone, Marina Vallarta, Romantic Zone, Conchas Chinas, and Mismaloya. If your venue is significantly outside this area (like Sayulita, San Pancho, or remote locations), a modest travel fee of $150-$300 may apply to cover the extra time and logistics.
What’s the average cost for a Puerto Vallarta photographer?
Professional wedding photographers in Puerto Vallarta typically charge $1,500-$3,500 USD for full-day coverage, which is roughly 40-60% less than comparable US or Canadian photographers would charge for destination weddings (before adding their travel expenses). Your final cost depends on coverage hours, add-ons like second shooters or engagement sessions, and your specific package.
Do you accept USD or Mexican Pesos?
We accept both, though USD is the industry standard for destination weddings in Puerto Vallarta. Pricing in USD provides clarity and consistency, avoiding confusion from fluctuating exchange rates between booking and your wedding date.
How quickly will we receive our photos?
You’ll receive a few sneak peek images within 24-48 hours, and your complete edited gallery is delivered within three weeks of your wedding or session—much faster than the 8-12 weeks many photographers require.
Do all Puerto Vallarta resorts charge outside vendor fees?
Many all-inclusive resorts charge fees ranging from $500-$1,000 for bringing in outside photographers, but not all. Private villas and some boutique hotels don’t charge these fees. We can tell you what we know about your specific venue—just send us a WhatsApp message with your venue name.
Is drone photography included?
Drone photography is available as an add-on for most packages, typically $300-$500. Not all venues permit drone usage, so we always confirm with your resort or venue coordinator before including drone coverage in your package.
What happens if there’s an emergency and you can’t photograph our wedding?
This is where our team approach provides enormous peace of mind. If one photographer faces an emergency, another experienced team member steps in to photograph your wedding with the same style and professionalism. Solo photographers can’t offer this guarantee.
Ready to Connect with Your Puerto Vallarta Photographer Team?
If you’re ready to begin planning your Puerto Vallarta wedding photography or family session, reaching out is easy. You can send us a WhatsApp message, give us a call, or fill out the contact form on this website. We’re always happy to chat about your vision, answer questions, and discuss which package best fits your celebration.
Unsure if your resort charges an outside vendor fee? Send us a message with your venue name, and we’ll tell you what we know about their specific policies. We’ve worked at virtually every major Puerto Vallarta resort and can help you navigate these details before they become surprises.
Let’s make your special day unforgettable. Browse our portfolio, check our client reviews, and when you’re ready, reach out to start planning together. We look forward to capturing your moments full of joy, love, and laughter!
