D&M’s engagement photoshoot in Oaxaca City (Mexico)
Here’s a short sunrise photo story of an amazing couple Dena and Michael that we photographed in Oaxaca City, and some tips for those planning a photoshoot here in Mexico.
Preparing for the photo shoot
Ever since our first call with these guys, I was sooo excited about the session and happy to be their engagement photographer. Michael and Dena were coming to Oaxaca City to enjoy its beautiful architecture and vibe, dreaming of some shots around Santo Domingo and on the streets of the city center and around it.
Starting from our first phone calls, I knew that we’d have a wonderful time, as the ideas were flowing, the guys were very energetic and loving, and most importantly, open to experiment - this helped a lot to have the creativity flow during our photoshoot. It was their first time in Oaxaca City, and I felt the responsibility of also sharing the most information I could about my favorite city.
“We told him kind of the vibe we were looking for on a call before the shoot and he helped to create that. He knew EXACTLY where to take us. He was excellent at directing the shots and everything felt natural. Also he was very good at explaining history and information about a site or the city on the walk. He was almost like a tour guide in a way”
Taking photos on the streets of Oaxaca
It was a perfect morning, with empty streets of Oaxaca center, lots of love in the air, a great walk and laughs, and many awesome photos that I absolutely adore. As it was a sunrise photoshoot, we popped into a coffee shop (this one), which later became one of the highlights of the session :)
“Our best memory was taking some shots inside a coffee shop. It felt like we were just having coffee and those were some of the most unique shots of the session. Incredible improvisation on Alex’s part. ”
Needless to say, Oaxaca is one of the best photo spots in Mexico. All the textures, colors, bougainvillea flowers, beautiful light - put a gorgeous couple in this environment, and your photoshoot is doomed to succeed.
“A moment that got us excited was a street with colored walls, and he had us run and take action shots in front of them. Those ended up being some great photos as well.”
“Moments in between”
In a couple hours of walking, running, standing, hugging, laughing, we managed to create lots of awesome photos. But to me, the moments “in between” are often the ones that matter most. The ones that are quiet and meaningful, with a simple look or a subtle touch or a gentle smile. When the time stops, the background doesn’t matter, and you’re just feeling the moment. Those are the ones I’m most looking for to photograph.
“We had great chemistry. Alex wanted us to feel comfortable, which we definitely did throughout the whole session. You can tell he cared and ultimately knew he wanted us in our best element to feel comfortable. Everything felt easy and natural. We honestly feel like we gained a friend in Alex, and we even met up with him the day after for lunch/coffee.”
I love when there’s a “click” between me and the couple, which not only helps them to relax and be “in the moment” during the session (and ultimately, this helps to create the best photographs), but often ends in making new friends :)
Tips for planning your photoshoot in Oaxaca City (and in Mexico in general):
Plan in advance. Everything, from the accommodation to photographers, is subject to availability, and in touristic places like Oaxaca City, it’s best to book some 4-8 weeks before your session. Needless to say, get to know your photographer before the session: Facetime calls, meetings for coffee - anything that could melt the ice long before the shoot and ensure you feel comfortable in hers or his company.
Pick the best season and timing. Although Oaxaca is beautiful any time of the year, some months are more cloudy and rainy than others (summer). Still want to arrive in the rainy season? Go for sunrise time (which was exactly what we did).
Have less strangers in your shots. Want to have your photos in the center of Oaxaca and avoid crowds? Once again, aim for sunrise :)
Have an open mind. It’s Mexico, and moreover, it’s Oaxaca. It’s a romantic city with incredibly friendly people and colorful architecture - but if someone’s late or a place is closed or your street is blocked, just accept it as part of the adventure :)
Enjoy your time :) At the end of the day, most probably you’re not coming for a commercial photoshoot. Instead, you might simply want to capture your love with the best background of Mexico and Oaxaca, and have the best photo memories of those moments. Feel that love, give your partner a nice hug, and forget about the camera!
“If you embrace Oaxaca with an open heart and mind, naturally you are going to have an incredible time which can lead to romantic moments with your partner. These will come through in a photo session very well.
Also if Alex has a suggestion on a shoot... just say YES. He is incredibly talented, but also very good at improvising and you just need to go with it, and it will lead to some of the best photos you’ve ever been in.”
My name is Alex Krotkov and I’m a professional wedding and interior photographer living in Mexico, capturing memories everywhere from Oaxaca and Chiapas to Tepoztlan and Cuernavaca, from San Miguel de Allende to Merida, from Baja California to Nayarit (you name it), and traveling worldwide.
Send me a message and let’s capture your story!
