A Trash the Dress photoshoot is one of the most fun ways to finish off an amazing Punta Cana wedding! Usually set for a day or two after the wedding, you put your wedding dress back on and we head to the beach where we photograph you walking along the shoreline, laughing together while wading into the ocean with your dress on. The results are some of the most playful, relaxed and unforgettable images in your wedding gallery. The wedding day is structured by a timeline, whereas this session is just about having fun and enjoying some private newlywed time together, and that’s exactly why it produces the photos couples end up loving the most!
What a Trash the Dress Session Looks Like
We meet you at your resort or a quiet beach near Bávaro, walk you through a few simple ideas and then let the session unfold. We don’t over direct or focus on poses. The best photos come from the candid moments. The dress catching the wind, the two of you laughing in the water as the sun sets behind. How adventurous you want to be is entirely up to you. Some couples only dip their feet in the ocean, while others run through the waves, sit in the wet sand and even splash around with each other. We’ll always adapt the session to your comfort level so you can decide exactly how far you’d like to take it.
Despite the name, most wedding dresses aren’t actually trashed during our Trash the Dress session. Salt water and sand can leave the dress dirty, but in most cases it can be professionally cleaned. Many brides tell us they were nervous at first, but once they stepped into the water they completely forgot about protecting the dress and simply enjoyed the experience. The session usually lasts about an hour and includes a mix of romantic portraits and playful, energetic shots that look nothing like formal wedding photos. Be sure to bring a towel and yes, you’ll be able to change out of your wet clothes once finished.
When and Where We Photograph Trash the Dress
The best time is either early morning or in the golden hour before sunset. The light is softer and the beach is quieter. We do photoshoots at Playa Macao, Bávaro Beach and at quieter coves in Punta Cana and Cap Cana depending on the look you want. Some couples want the wide open look of Macao while others prefer the more sheltered feel of a private beach near their resort. We help you pick the spot that matches your vision.
What the Session Includes
The Trash the Dress Photoshoot lasts about an hour, with at least 70 fully edited images delivered in a beautiful online gallery within 30 days.
- Price: $500 as a standalone session
- Add-on price: $150 when added to any wedding package
See our Wedding Packages page for info on pricing.
Why Couples Love This Session
Most couples spend their wedding day running through a tight timeline of getting ready, the ceremony, the reception, the photos with family. A Trash the Dress session is the opposite. It’s relaxed, fun and just for the two of you. The dress is already paid for and the trip is already booked, so it’s one of the best photo decisions you can make! We’ve had couples tell us that their Trash the Dress photos are the ones they actually printed and put on the wall.
“I could not be more happy with my experience with Punta Cana Photographer! My photos came out amazing and they captured so many moments. We also did the trash the dress following the wedding which was a lot of fun! Very happy with the final product.”
Danielle, WeddingWire
There’s very little you need for your session, which is another reason couples love it. Along with your wedding attire, we recommend bringing comfortable sandals to wear while walking to the beach, a towel, a change of clothes and a waterproof bag for your wet items afterwards. If you’re thinking of wearing your veil, don’t leave it behind! Veils create beautiful movement in the ocean breeze and add an extra touch of drama to your photographs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my dress get ruined?
In most cases, no. Salt water and sand can leave the dress dirty, but it can usually be professionally cleaned afterwards.
Do I have to use my actual wedding dress?
Not at all. Many couples bring a second dress instead of the one they wore on their wedding day, so they can be as adventurous as they like without any worry.
How much does a trash the dress session cost?
It is $500 as a standalone session.
When and where do you shoot it?
Early morning or golden hour before sunset, at Macao Beach, Bavaro Beach or quieter coves in Punta Cana and Cap Cana. We can also shoot beyond the beach, for example at a cenote such as Ojos Indigenas (note the cenote charges an entry fee).
How adventurous do we have to be?
Entirely up to you. Some couples only dip their feet in the ocean, while others run through the waves. We adapt to your comfort level.
What should I bring?
Your dress, comfortable sandals, a towel and a change of clothes. If you have a veil, bring it too, since it creates beautiful movement in the breeze.
Book Your Trash the Dress Photoshoot
Tell us your dates and where you’re staying and we’ll help plan the time and location! We can also combine the Trash the Dress with an engagement or anniversary session if you want to extend the coverage.
Explore our Punta Cana wedding photography, elopement photography and surprise proposal photography.
Check our availability for your trash the dress session
See our wedding packages and pricing
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