When people think of a Manuel Antonio wedding, they often imagine the logistical dance of moving guests from a hotel to the sand. But for Joelle and Levi’s “Tropical Classic” celebration at Hotel Costa Verde, we decided to break the mold.
As a veteran photographer in this region for over 15 years, I’ve seen many couples struggle with the heat and timing of beach transitions. Joelle and Levi wanted to maintain that iconic jungle-meets-ocean vibe without the logistical headache, and as a Gen Z couple, they were looking for something far more original than the “usual” sunset poses.
The Art of Observation: Finding the Natural Flow
One of the biggest misconceptions about “natural” wedding photos is that they just happen. In reality, they are the result of careful observation.
During the getting ready and the ceremony, I spent my time studying Joelle and Levi’s personalities and their style. By the time we reached their portrait session, I didn’t need to “pose” them in the traditional, stiff sense. Because I had already seen how they moved and interacted, I was able to guide them into moments that were both beautiful and authentically them. This “un-stiff” approach is exactly how we achieved the original, contemporary look they were chasing.
Technical Mastery: The Power of Natural Light
Joelle and Levi were very clear: they wanted a pure documentary feel with as little flash as possible. To respect the “Tropical Classic” atmosphere, I relied on my Canon DSLRs paired with the 35mm f/1.4 and 85mm f/1.2.
Using a Holdfast Moneymaker harness allowed me to keep both focal lengths literally at my fingertips. The 35mm captured the wide, cinematic environment of the Manuel Antonio coastline, while the 85mm allowed me to pull in those intimate, shallow-depth-of-field portraits without intruding on their space. Working at such wide apertures (f/1.2 and f/1.4) meant I could lean into the soft, fading light of the Pacific sunset without ever needing to kill the mood with an artificial flash.
The Insider’s Secret: The “Tropical Wall” and the Bridge
You don’t always need your toes in the sand to prove you’re in Costa Rica. While most photographers at Hotel Costa Verde head straight for the beach, we found a “secret” side of the terrace. A lush, vibrant “tropical wall” of palms and native trees provided the perfect high-contrast backdrop that kept the jungle vibe front and center.
We also utilized the bridge on the property for their First Look. Beyond the aesthetic, which is stunning, it provided something even more valuable: privacy. In the middle of a wedding day, finding a quiet corner where a couple can just beis essential. It’s a reminder that this day isn’t a photoshoot; it’s about them.
Expert Advice for Your Hotel Costa Verde Wedding
If you are planning a wedding at Hotel Costa Verde and are worried about the logistics of the beach, here is my veteran advice: Trust the terrace.
The big terrace offers one of the most unobstructed sunset views in Manuel Antonio. The property is full of “little corners”, from the jungle paths to the architectural lines of the hotel, that offer a sophisticated tropical experience. You can absolutely have an editorial, world-class gallery without ever leaving the hotel grounds.
Ready to Capture Your Story?
If you’re looking for a Manuel Antonio wedding photographer who values authenticity over posing and knows how to navigate the unique light of the Costa Rican coast, I’d love to chat. With a decade and a half of experience documenting love stories from the jungle to the sea, I’m here to make sure your only job is to be present.
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