Photographing Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a place like no other, with its pristine beaches, jungles, volcanoes, and waterfalls. It's the kind of destination that leaves a mark on your heart—and what better way to remember it than with a professional photo session?
Whether you're here for a family vacation, a trip with friends, or to celebrate a special moment like an engagement or elopement, capturing those experiences through photos is something no souvenir can ever replace.
Note: All photos courtesy of Harold Gamboa Photography
Best Places for Photo Sessions in Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers countless settings that provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos. It all comes down to what you prefer!
Flamingo Beach, Guanacaste
Flamingo Beach is known for its white sand and clear blue waters, making it an ideal location for any photo session. For more privacy, head to the far side of the beach, where fewer tourists gather, allowing for uninterrupted shots. The best lighting is during sunrise or sunset. Accessibility is good, with paved roads leading to the area and various accommodations nearby. In case of the unexpected, consider Potrero Beach as a backup, just a short drive away.
Nosara, Guanacaste
Nosara is a popular destination for surfers, wellness enthusiasts, and families. Its two main beaches, Playa Guiones and Playa Pelada, offer scenic backdrops for photo sessions. Playa Guiones is vast and often less crowded at sunrise, providing an excellent setting for peaceful, golden-hour shots. Playa Pelada offers more seclusion, especially on its southern end. The area is generally accessible by road, though some paths may require a 4x4 vehicle. If conditions aren’t ideal, nearby Playa Ostional is a great alternative.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
For those looking for a magical and adventurous setting, Monteverde Cloud Forest offers hanging bridges, green trails, and misty canopies. The cloud forest has limited sunlight, so mid-morning and early afternoon are best for photography. Due to the humid conditions, bringing weather-resistant gear is advisable. Privacy varies depending on the location—some trails can be busy, while others, like the Santa Elena Reserve, are quieter. If weather disrupts plans, consider the Butterfly Garden or Orchid Garden in Monteverde as indoor backup options.
Santa Teresa, Puntarenas
Santa Teresa’s white-sand beaches, sunsets, and surf culture create a stunning backdrop for any photo session. The beaches can be crowded, so for more privacy, visit Playa Hermosa (not to be confused with the one in Guanacaste), just a short drive away. The town is accessible but has some unpaved roads, making a 4x4 vehicle a good option.
Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula
For a secluded and untouched backdrop, Drake Bay on the Osa Peninsula is perfect. The area offers quiet beaches and dense jungle, making it ideal for nature lovers and those seeking privacy. The best lighting is early in the morning, as the sunlight filters through the trees and onto the coastline. Access requires either a boat or a rugged drive, so planning ahead is essential. You’ll find plenty of secluded spots like Playa San Josecito.
Manuel Antonio and Jacó Beach
Manuel Antonio and Jacó are among Costa Rica’s most accessible photo session places, thanks to well-paved roads and proximity to San José. Manuel Antonio provides greenery and scenic beaches, though it can be crowded—visiting early morning on weekdays ensures a more private setting. Jacó Beach is ideal for urban-style beach photos, with plenty of open space and easy access. For backup options, nearby Playa Herradura or Playa Hermosa (near Jacó) offer a quieter setting.
Hiring Process for a Professional Photoshoot in Costa Rica
If you’re traveling with tour operators like us, you can ask for recommendations on trusted photographers. Alternatively, you can find photographers through their websites and social media pages, where you’ll typically find complete information and direct contact via email.
The booking process is usually straightforward—choosing a date and time for the session. Most photographers require a deposit to secure the date, usually $100 or a percentage of the total session cost. Some photographers also provide questionnaires to better understand the client’s vision for their photos.
Typical Price Ranges
Pricing varies depending on the location and the photographer’s experience, but this is the usual range.
- $300–$400 for a 30-minute session
- $400–$700 for a one-hour session
Recommended Booking Platforms & Resources
- Hotel concierge services
- Travel agencies
- Tour operators
Booking Timeline
- High season (December–April): Book at least two to four months in advance.
- Low season (May–November): A minimum of three to four weeks is usually enough.
Payment Structures & General Considerations
Most photographers require a 10–30% deposit to secure the date, usually via PayPal. The remaining balance is usually paid on the day of the session via an agreed platform or method. Confirm all this ahead of time to avoid unnecessary hiccups in the process.
Before hiring a photographer, it’s important to ensure they are familiar with the area and can recommend the best times for your session. Reviewing their portfolio is also key to making sure their style matches your preferences. Some photographers specialize in portrait photography, while others focus on lifestyle photography. Some prefer bright, studio-like lighting in natural settings, while others have a more naturalistic approach.
Keep in Mind
- Insurance & Equipment: Some professional photographers carry liability insurance and backup equipment.
- Language: Many photographers in Costa Rica speak English and Spanish, but communication preferences should be confirmed in advance.
- Transportation: If your session is in a remote area, ask if the photographer can meet you at your location or if they offer transportation assistance. Some photographers may charge additional fees for travel to remote locations.
Planning a Professional Photoshoot Session
For your photo session, we recommend choosing comfortable clothing that blends well with the natural surroundings. Neutral colors like beige, gray, brown, and white are great choices for any occasion. Flowing dresses that move naturally look amazing in photos. Try to avoid bold patterns and branded logos for a timeless look. Pastel tones like soft blues and pinks also work beautifully.
Most importantly, wear something that makes you feel confident, and come with a positive attitude—having fun during the session is the best way to create beautiful memories of your trip!
Costa Rica is a tropical paradise, and if you're visiting during the rainy season, you might experience occasional showers. But after all, it is the rainforest! This is why planning your session with a professional who can recommend the best time of day is key.
Additional Session Details
- Standard Session Durations & Packages: Most photographers offer 30-minute, one-hour, or extended sessions.
- Photo Delivery Timeframes: Typically two to four weeks after the session.
- Rights & Usage Terms: Some photographers provide full rights to the images, while others may retain usage rights for promotional purposes.
- Cancellation & Weather Policies: Most photographers offer rescheduling options in case of rain or unforeseen circumstances.
- Group Size Limitations: Additional fees may apply for larger groups.
Capture Your Journey in Costa Rica
A professional photoshoot in Costa Rica is more than just taking pictures—it’s about capturing the magic of your experience in one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations.
With the right photographer and a little planning, you’ll walk away with stunning images that will allow you to relive your adventure for years to come. So, get ready to smile, embrace the beauty around you, and create lasting memories!
About the Author
Jessica Luecke
Senior Travel Consultant
Costa Rica stole Jessica’s heart and has made her life exciting and action-packed.
