Lagoon and Mangrove Photos in Mayakoba: A Practical Guide

The lagoons of Mayakoba are the reason this resort area looks like nowhere else in Mexico. They are also harder to photograph than they seem. Here is what we have learned about working there.

The Light

Mangroves create strong contrast: bright sky and dark green shadows. Midday is the worst time. In the last hour the sun gets low enough to reach under the trees, and the water reflects the sky. We look for places where the canal opens up, so faces catch the open light.

Practical Things

Mosquitoes. They are real at dusk. Apply repellent before getting dressed, and keep it away from your clothes.

Colour. Avoid green. White, sand, terracotta and rust look wonderful.

Footing. Docks and boardwalks can be slippery, so bring flat shoes.

Mayakoba, Through Our Lens

Real IVAE Studios work on this coast, so you can see how this light and water look on camera. It shows our work in the area, not necessarily at Mayakoba.

Where to Go

Each resort has its own access. At Rosewood it is the suite docks, the Lagoon Lawn and the paths. See our guides to Rosewood, Banyan Tree, Fairmont and Alila.

From First Message to Gallery

There are three steps. First, you send us your dates and the people involved. Second, we choose the hour from the real sun times for Mayakoba on your dates, and we confirm the plan with you. Third, we shoot, and your private 4K gallery reaches you within one to three business days, while the trip still feels recent.