Behind the Scenes: A Family photos at Andaz Resort on the Papagayo Peninsula in Costa Rica


If you’ve been searching for the perfect place to capture professional photos of your family, the beaches of Papagayo Peninsula in Costa Rica are an absolute dream. Recently, I had the pleasure of conducting a stunning family portrait session on the beach at the luxurious Andaz Papagayo Resort. It was the perfect combination of natural beauty, family warmth, and professional photography, and I’m excited to take you behind the scenes.
Why Papagayo Peninsula is Ideal for Family Portraits
The Papagayo Peninsula, located in Guanacaste, the northwest region of Costa Rica, is known for its pristine beaches, lush surroundings, and exclusive resorts like Andaz Papagayo. These natural elements create a breathtaking backdrop for a professional photoshoot, making it an ideal destination for capturing timeless family or couple portraits.
The beaches here are unlike anywhere else. With soft golden sands, rocky cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, Papagayo offers a variety of unique landscapes that photographers love. Whether you’re looking for dramatic, wind-swept shots with the ocean in the background or more intimate moments captured under the shade of palm trees, this location delivers it all. It’s a paradise that feels both luxurious and secluded, making it perfect for a relaxed, stress-free photoshoot.
A Day in the Life of a Photoshoot at Andaz Papagayo
We started the day early to catch the soft morning light. The family I was photographing, like many who come to Andaz Papagayo, wanted to showcase both the natural beauty of the location and the joy they felt being together in such a special place. With the beach just steps away from their suite, the session felt like a natural extension of their vacation.
As the family walked along the shore, we captured candid moments of the kids playing and their parents interacting with them. One of the most beautiful aspects of photographing on the beaches of Papagayo is the way the light interacts with the surroundings. The early morning sun created a warm, golden glow, perfect for highlighting the family’s connection and the natural beauty of the location.
Papagayo’s Beaches: The Perfect Canvas for Professional Photos
- It’s always good to get some candid photos of parents at family portrait sessions.
Andaz Papagayo offers multiple beaches, each with its own character. For this particular session, we shot along Playa Sombrero, a quiet cove with calm waters and rocky outcrops. The smooth, sandy areas allowed for stunning full-body shots, while the rock formations provided the perfect backdrop for more intimate close-ups.
One of the reasons why this area is so popular for family and couple portrait sessions is because of the diversity it offers. Whether you want a tropical jungle vibe, a tranquil beach scene, or dramatic coastal cliffs, the Papagayo Peninsula delivers all these settings within a short distance. This gives me the flexibility to create a wide range of looks, ensuring every photo feels fresh and unique.
Capturing Authentic Moments
My goal during any family portrait session is to capture authentic moments of connection and emotion, and this day was no different. The children’s laughter, the parents’ loving glances, and the sense of peace they all felt being in such a serene location made for beautiful, genuine photos. Having the beach as our studio only enhanced these moments, allowing the family to relax and fully enjoy the experience.
Costa Rica’s Papagayo Peninsula, with its unspoiled beauty and relaxed atmosphere, encourages families to be themselves. The calm sound of the waves, the gentle sea breeze, and the vastness of the sky make it easy for people to forget they’re in the middle of a professional photoshoot, letting their true personalities shine through.
Why Choose a Professional Photographer?

While the natural beauty of Papagayo can make anyone feel like a pro behind the lens, having a professional photographer ensures that you get the most out of the experience. Professional photos go beyond capturing the setting – they bring out the emotions and dynamics within a family or couple. A photographer who knows how to work with light, angles, and candid moments can transform a lovely day at the beach into a lifetime of cherished memories.
The results from our family session at Andaz Papagayo were stunning. Every photo told a story of joy, love, and the beauty of Costa Rica’s incredible beaches. These professional photos not only captured a special family vacation but also immortalized their connection in a way that’s unique to this magical place.
Book Your Own Beach Session at Papagayo

Whether you’re a family enjoying a vacation or a couple celebrating a special occasion, the beaches of Papagayo provide the perfect backdrop for professional photos. The luxurious and private settings at Andaz Papagayo are perfect for creating moments you’ll want to remember forever. From the breathtaking natural beauty to the relaxed atmosphere, everything about a photoshoot in Papagayo Peninsula feels special.
So, next time you find yourself in Costa Rica, consider scheduling a professional portrait session on these stunning beaches. It’s a memory you’ll treasure, with photos that will stand the test of time.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica or just dreaming of your next tropical getaway, don’t miss the opportunity to capture your special moments in paradise with professional photos on the beaches of Papagayo. The memories – and the photos – will be worth it!
Want to learn more about having your family portraits in Costa Rica? Click the link below.