24 replies to this topic

[eec129]

Hi - So now I am stuck in a dilemma. My resort, Sandals Beaches, doesn't allow outside photographers, but I was told if I tell the resort I was traveling with a friend who is a photographer, who will be doing my photos, it won't be a problem.

The thing is, even though I would love to do this (and the price is the SAME, where my resort will be taking much fewer pics, probably of lower quality), I am scared if I do this I will get caught. Has anyone else tried this, and would you recommend it? I want great photos, but I don't want to take too big of a risk. Thanks!

[SusieQ]

Hmmmm.... Yeah that is a great question? He/she has never been there because they don't allow outsider so... Who would know... Just say it's a family & friends are taking your pictures and he/she is an over zealous friend/family memeber that goes extreme....lol
I don't want a photographer because I will only have a few pictures taken.... i am not good with cameras.... I would feel overwhelmed with a photographer on my butt telling me to smile and pose.

[Carleigh&Adam]

Yeah, I don't know that's tricky! What's the worst that can happen? I can't believe they won't let a photographer on the property. I'm getting married at Couples Swept Away in Negril Jamaica and they have a resort photographer but I wanted a professional since I feel in love with Diana Campell's photos. They charge a $500 fee to bring in a photographer and I decided that this is one of the most important days for me so it's worth breaking the bank over it. I wish you the best of luck. I would ask if their photographers are professionals to and not just someone that gets paid an hourly wage. Good luck with everything and congradualtions!

[Vikki]

If you can't swing a photographer other than the resort you might consider using them for the ceremony itself then hiring a local photographer to do pictures for you off the resort. I've seen some photos done that way and they are stunning. There are lots of great Jamaican photographers.

That way you'll still get the ceremony pics but you can have some other fun shots, maybe even your TTD at the same time taken by a photographer you feel like you can trust.

[NYCBridetoBe1909]

Are you sure they won't allow outside photographers? I'm certain the policy on this recently changed. I'm getting married at Sandals Regency in St. Lucia and will be flying in a photographer from NYC. He has to be a resort guest, and has to stay 3 nights, but he's allowed.

[CarlyChristine]

Quote:

Originally Posted by NYCBridetoBe1909 Are you sure they won't allow outside photographers? I'm certain the policy on this recently changed. I'm getting married at Sandals Regency in St. Lucia and will be flying in a photographer from NYC. He has to be a resort guest, and has to stay 3 nights, but he's allowed.

From what I've read, you're right. As long as they are staying 3 nights they can take the pictures. There are some girl on the forum that are getting married soon and taking their own photog. I'm sure we'll here if there are any problems.

[*Meagan*]

I am a beaches brides and have contacted my WC about this and Yes you can have a photographer if they are staying BUT they can not be a professional with all of the equipment etc. So Beaches/Sandals saying yes you can but you really can not. Hand held camera, no extra equipment, no nothing.. that is not allowed. So its riduclous basically.

I have hired someone on T&C to take us off property before the ceremony to take our pictures!

[michelle6114]

These rules are absolutely ridiculous. I think they are saying all these things just so you do not even ATTEMPT to sneak someone in! Who are they at these resorts to determine if a piece of equipment is "too professional"?? Do they have a camera expert on grounds to determine which piece is not allowed? What if I happen to have a guest who has an awesome camera but is not actually a professional? I am convinced there is a way to get around all these (non rules).
I did actually look into what a 3 night stay would cost for one photographer. Such a short stay is not subject to any discounts so 3 nights at Beaches is a lovely $775. The Sandals & Co want you to believe they are trying to help you out but that is crazy!!!
I am interested to know if anyone on here has ever had an outside photog escorted off property? There are too many hollow rules and loop holes.

[kgeecee]

i will let you brides know how mine goes.
i am leaving next wednesday and my guest/ photog who is going to be doing a lot of shots will be there thursday thru sunday.
i spoke w the wc @ the resort and she pretty much said it was ok but did say that the photog @ the resort will want to take some pictures also(not obligated to buy any) but my person can do whatever....

i will be back 10/09 so i will post something as soon as i can....

[Islandbride2b]

We are "sneaking" 3 in! I dont care if the resort allows for this or not. They will be set up as and are friends of ours. What can they say or do if you bring an over zelles friends with cameras and different lenses with them! I mean really, seriously are they going to tell you to leave after spending all that money on your stay. I'm sure they understand that it would reflect badly and really hurt their business/resort. They wouldn't be getting any recommendations from me if something like that took place!