Jumpology

A jump lasts a second. The truth it reveals can last forever. Magnum photographer Philip Halsman believed that in the instant of a jump, the mask falls. You can't control your face, limbs, and balance all at once. He called it jumpology, a new science of truth through motion. Over 170 celebrities leapt for him. Grace Kelly, the Duke of Windsor, even Richard Nixon. Awkward and human for a split second. Marilyn Monroe jumped over 200 times in one session, trying to transcend the performance. Salvador Dalí, he jumped with three flying cats and tossed water. Surrealism mid-air. Each leap was a portrait of personality on the edge. One instant of vulnerability, of joy, of terrified release. And Halsman captured it forever. So, if you jumped for Myplayaphotographer, what would fall first? Your Grace or your guard?

A 45-Minute Family Session in Beautiful Playacar

Last week I had the chance to photograph this amazing multigenerational family during a 45-minute beach session in Playacar, right here in Playa del Carmen. The light was perfect, the vibe was relaxed, and the energy was all love and laughter.

From candid couple shots to full family portraits and everything in between, we made the most of the time—proof that you don’t need hours to capture meaningful moments. The backdrop? Soft white sand, gentle waves, and one of the most peaceful stretches of beach in the Riviera Maya.

Whether you’re planning a family vacation, celebrating a milestone, or just want timeless beach portraits, I offer fast, fun sessions that deliver natural, professional results.

Thinking about a session while you're in Playa del Carmen?
Let’s capture something real—easy, breezy, and right by the sea.

📍 Available in Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cancun, Akumal, Puerto Aventuras & more.
📩 DM or contact via myplayaphotographer@gmail.com, www.myplayaphotographer.com

Behind the Lens: A Natural Light Fashion Shoot with themocmoc in Playa del Carmen

As a photographer working mostly with independent brands, I’m always on the lookout for locations that don’t need much dressing up—just good light, interesting lines, and a sense of authenticity. That’s exactly what we found for this recent shoot with themocmoc in Playa del Carmen.

We kept things simple: one model, one loose concept, and a hidden space just steps from the beach. The kind of spot that doesn’t show up on maps, but gives you a ton of freedom to create.

Location: Secluded, Textured, and Real

This wasn’t your typical beach shoot. We found a tucked-away corner of Playa del Carmen where nature and raw architecture meet—concrete stairs open to the sky, overgrown greenery framing every shot, and filtered sunlight that hit just right all day. It gave us room to move, experiment, and let the environment lead the mood.

The Brand: Slow, Intentional, Honest

themocmoc is a small brand with a focus on relaxed, well-made pieces—clean cuts, earthy tones, and light materials that actually respond to their surroundings. No over-styling, no fuss. It made sense to shoot everything in natural light with minimal gear. The goal was to create editorial-style content that feels lived-in and transportive.

Why This Kind of Work Matters

As a photographer, I’m drawn to location-based storytelling—shoots where the space plays just as much of a role as the clothes. Especially for sustainable or independent brands, this kind of organic content helps tell a bigger story than just product photos. It's about feeling and place. And it works.

Looking to Collaborate?

If you're a brand, designer, or creative team looking for fashion content that feels natural, intentional, and rooted in strong visuals—I'm based in Playa del Carmen and always open to new projects. Whether you're planning a lookbook, social campaign, or lifestyle shoot, I’d love to help bring your ideas to life in a way that feels real and aligned with your brand.

Drop me a message, let’s shoot somewhere that feels like a secret.

Golden Moments in Cancun: Capturing Sorority Sisterhood in Yellow

There’s something magical about photographing a sisterhood, especially when it’s wrapped in sunshine, laughter, and the golden hues of coordinated dresses. During a recent session in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, I had the absolute pleasure of capturing a stunning group of sorority sisters who brought energy, elegance, and effortless joy to the beach.

Managing Large Group Sessions with Style

Photographing large groups can be a challenge—but it’s one I genuinely enjoy. With a session like this, it’s about balancing chaos and harmony. The beach is a naturally fluid environment—waves crash, wind blows, people move—and the key is to flow with it rather than fight it. I always start with structure, organizing the group in ways that highlight their connection while still giving each individual their moment to shine. From dynamic walking shots to posed portraits, I create moments that feel organic, not overly forced.

To keep things smooth, I work in layers—starting in most cases with the full group, then breaking into smaller sets and solos. This not only keeps the session energized and fun, but ensures no detail gets lost in the crowd.

The Power of Color in Photography

Let’s talk about that yellow.

Every sister showed up in a shade of yellow—from soft pastels to rich mustards—which created a stunning visual cohesiveness that elevated every single frame. Yellow is joyful, radiant, and warm, echoing the vibe of the Caribbean sand and sunshine. It also made editing a dream. Against the turquoise sea and bright sky, the yellow popped beautifully, adding contrast and depth while tying every photo together.

Chaos & Composition: Art in Motion

One of my favorite aspects of this session was the dynamic contrast between structure and spontaneity. While I always appreciate a touch of formal organization to anchor a group session, it's often the chaotic breakouts that steal the show. The wind-blown dresses, the laughter, the unfiltered energy of sisterhood spilling onto the sand—those moments brought this shoot to life. I leaned into that beautiful unpredictability, allowing the natural flow of movement to shape the composition. Rather than relying on rigid symmetry or tidy lines, I focused on capturing energy, connection, and those perfect split-seconds when joy takes over. That’s where the magic happens.

Sometimes the most captivating shots are the ones in between the poses—the shared glances, spontaneous jumps, bursts of laughter. It's those unplanned, unfiltered moments that truly tell the story of sisterhood.

Why Cancun’s Hotel Zone Is Perfect for Group Sessions

If you're considering a beach session in Cancun, the Hotel Zone is unbeatable. With wide stretches of soft sand, crystal-clear water, and iconic skyline views, it provides the perfect mix of natural beauty and modern backdrops. Whether you’re planning a destination celebration, girls' trip, or sorority reunion, it’s the ideal setting for both candid joy and timeless elegance.

Ready to Book Your Group Photoshoot in Cancun?

Whether it's a sorority retreat, birthday celebration, or family reunion, I specialize in turning group sessions into unforgettable visual stories. I’ll guide you every step of the way—from outfit coordination tips to posing that flatters everyone—ensuring a stress-free experience and photos you’ll cherish forever.

Capturing Joy in Paradise: A Family Photo Session in the Riviera Maya

If you're planning a family vacation to the breathtaking Riviera Maya, there's no better way to preserve those cherished memories than with a professional family photo session. From the sun-kissed beaches of Playa del Carmen to the lush greenery of Tulum, this stunning stretch of Mexico offers a dreamy backdrop for portraits you'll treasure forever.

Recently, we had the pleasure of photographing a beautiful beachside session with the vibrant Lindsay, her husband Jessie, and their two energetic kids, Villa and Rogan. Dressed in warm, tropical tones that complemented the natural surroundings, this fun-loving family brought sunshine to every frame.

Whether it's little Rogan’s sandy footprints as he races along the shore, or Willa showing off her playful spirit with a beachside cartwheel, every moment was filled with joy, connection, and that unmistakable Riviera glow.

Why Book a Family Photoshoot in the Riviera Maya?

• Scenic Variety: From turquoise waters and palm-lined beaches to rustic jungle trails, you’ll have endless photo options.

• Golden Hour Magic: The soft lighting during sunrise and sunset provides the perfect conditions for natural, flattering portraits.

• Lasting Memories: A photo session turns fleeting vacation moments into timeless keepsakes.

• Vacation Vibes: Everyone’s relaxed and happy, making it easier to capture authentic, candid expressions.

Tips for a Perfect Riviera Maya Family Session:

1. Choose Coordinated Outfits: Think tropical chic—linen, cotton, florals, and earthy tones photograph beautifully.

2. Plan for Early Morning or Late Afternoon: These times give you cooler temps and stunning light.

3. Let the Kids Be Kids: Natural smiles come from fun, so embrace the laughter, splashing, and sandy toes.

4. Hire a Local Photographer: Someone familiar with Playa del Carmen, Tulum, or Cancun will know all the best spots.

Ready to turn your vacation into a visual story? A family photo session in the Riviera Maya is more than just pictures—it's a celebration of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments together.

A Sunset Session to Remember – Capturing Memories in Playa del Carmen

Last week, I had the chance to photograph a beautiful family of four visiting Playa del Carmen. The mom, Joanna, reached out with one goal in mind—getting some real, heartfelt family photos before Malik and Seth grow out of vacationing with their parents. (If you're a parent, you know how fast that window closes!)

We kept it relaxed—a 45-minute beach session just before sunset, mixing natural poses with spontaneous moments. My focus was on the connection—playful moments, quiet closeness, and the in-betweens that say the most.

It’s these kinds of sessions I love—simple, meaningful, and real. Whether you're visiting Tulum, Cancun, or Playa del Carmen, a quick photo session can turn into one of your favorite souvenirs.

If you're thinking about capturing your own vacation story—let’s make it happen. 📸🌴

Eloping in Sueños Tulum: Revisiting the Moment, 5 Years Later

A few days ago, I met up with Gabriel and Colleen at the beach in front of Sueños Tulum, where they got married five years ago. We timed it for sunset—just like they did back then—and recreated a few of the same photos from their original elopement.

Returning to the exact spot where they said their vows brought back all the feels. Same beach, same couple, just a few more memories between them. It was simple, meaningful, and honestly a really special way to mark the five-year milestone.

Why revisit your elopement location?

Doing a photo session at the place you originally eloped is a great way to reconnect with what your wedding day was really about—just the two of you, in a place you love. Whether it’s for an anniversary, a vow renewal, or just a quick getaway, it adds a whole new layer of meaning to your photos.

Why choose Sueños Tulum to elope?

Sueños is a small, laid-back hotel with a beautiful beachfront that’s perfect for couples who want something intimate and relaxed. It's ideal for a low-key ceremony or an easy anniversary shoot without a big production.

Thinking about a Tulum elopement?

Whether you're planning to elope for the first time or coming back to relive the moment, Sueños Tulum is a great choice. It’s easygoing, beautiful, and makes for unforgettable photos—especially at golden hour.

Eloping in a Cenote in the Riviera Maya: A Hidden Gem for Unforgettable Wedding Photos

If you’re dreaming of an intimate, meaningful way to say “I do,” a cenote elopement in the Riviera Maya might just be the perfect fit. Tucked away in the lush jungles of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, cenotes offer an extraordinary setting—raw, romantic, and completely unique.

With over 10 years of photographing weddings and elopements across the Riviera Maya, I can confidently say that cenote elopements are among the most powerful and visually stunning experiences you can have. These natural freshwater pools are steeped in Mayan history and surrounded by dramatic limestone walls, emerald foliage, and crystal-clear water. The atmosphere feels sacred, private, and cinematic—everything you want when you're making one of life’s most important promises.

Why Choose a Cenote Elopement?

Couples who elope in a cenote are often looking for something deeper than a traditional wedding—a connection to nature, to each other, and to a moment that feels truly theirs. There’s no backdrop quite like it. The light filters through the trees in soft beams, water glows an impossible shade of blue, and the sounds of the jungle provide a peaceful soundtrack. It’s intimate, timeless, and absolutely unforgettable on camera.

Photography That Tells a Story

From a photographer’s perspective, cenotes offer an incredible range of light, texture, and atmosphere. Whether you’re exchanging vows at the edge of a secluded pool or taking portraits deep inside a cave lit only by soft natural light, the visual storytelling potential is endless. I focus on capturing the authenticity and emotion of the moment, blending documentary-style photography with fine art composition to ensure your images are as breathtaking as the experience itself.

Planning Your Cenote Elopement

There are hundreds of cenotes across the Riviera Maya, each with its own character. Some are open and sunlit, while others are partially underground with dramatic shadows and echoes. I work closely with couples to find the right location—one that suits their vision, energy, and comfort level. Whether you're eloping near Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or deeper into the jungle, there’s a perfect cenote waiting to become part of your story.

Make It Yours

Eloping in a cenote is about stripping away the distractions and focusing on what truly matters—your connection. And when it’s captured with intention, your photos won’t just show what it looked like. They’ll remind you exactly how it felt.

Explore more Riviera Maya elopement photography at www.myplayaphotographer.com and let’s start planning your dream cenote session.