Venue: La Mariposa – Manuel Antonio, Quepos, Costa Rica

Last week I had the incredible opportunity to photograph Kirsten and Brandon in the most beautiful place, Costa Rica.  They started off the trip with a beach session and boat ride (click HERE to see).  The next day was the big day.  Boy, was it stunning.  They were even blessed by lucking out that the two mated Macaw’s that live in the surrounding jungle fly by during their ceremony.  If you didn’t know, macaws mate for life.   It was amazing!  Then they ended the night early by jumping into the pool!  Because,  if you didn’t guess, it’s as hot and humid as you’d think a rainforest would be – but oh so worth it! Check out the recap of their day!

The post Iowa & Destination Wedding Photographer | Costa Rica | Kirsten & Brandon Day 2 first appeared on Iowa Wedding Photographer - Amanda Basteen.

Venue: Manuel Antonio, Quepos, Costa Rica

Last week I had the incredible opportunity to travel to yet  ANOTHER  epic destination for a beautiful wedding.  Wow,  if you ever get the chance to go to Costa Rica, definitely do it.  Think Jurassic park (it was filmed there) but amazing culture, wildlife and a true Pura Vida vibe.

Yes, I know I was just also in Cabo 2 weeks ago.  I’m so blessed to have this opportunity to see the world while making magic with people.  So, we started day 1 with a quick morning beach session and then did a few photos on their party boat later in the day!   Here are some favs from day 1!  Stay tuned for their epic wedding!

The post Iowa & Destination Wedding Photographer | Costa Rica | Kirsten & Brandon Day 1 first appeared on Iowa Wedding Photographer - Amanda Basteen.

Stay tuned as next week I’ll be flying out to Costa Rica for another epic destination wedding!

Date: February 14, 2026

Venue: Secrets Cabo, Mexico

The post Iowa & Destination Wedding Photographer – Cabo Mexico Wedding – Erin & Blake first appeared on Iowa Wedding Photographer - Amanda Basteen.

Venue: El Arco, Cabo San Lucas – Mexico & Secrets Cabo Resort

A few days ago I had the honor to be flown into Cabo to shoot Erin & Blake’s beautiful Cabo destination wedding.  The festivities kicked off on day 1 with a party boat ride out to El Arco.  We mainly did candid and party photos, but was able to snag a few other fun photos!  What a beautiful place.  I love it each time I get to go there!! Then that evening we did a quick beach shoot before they headed off to their rehearsal.  These are some favs from that day!  Next up, their wedding day!

The post Destination & Iowa Wedding Photographer | Cabo – Erin & Blake El Arco first appeared on Iowa Wedding Photographer - Amanda Basteen.

I always love to post some helpful tips when I post my engagement favs.  I know it’s likely your first time being engaged and it can be overwhelming trying to figure it all out.  So here are some tips I’ve accumulated over my 18 years in the business.

Here are some things to consider when you are first engaged:

What now?! Well, first pick a date!  Personally, I book out super fast as do many other vendors so it is helpful if you have favorite vendor to ask some of their open dates so that you have a better chance to snag them!

Usually most people book their venue and photographer first.  This is not a rule, of course, but those things tend to be gone fast!  (FYI: I’m always happy to give out helpful venue suggestions, as well as other vendors!)

Once you have some of those big things nailed down is when we can talk about your engagement session.  They are never required, but for me personally, I give them out for free in my wedding packages because I believe it’s a great time to get to know each other before your wedding! It also gets you guys comfortable with my shooting style.  Especially for men.  Let’s be honest, most do not love having photos taken.  But, they find that once they do the engagement that it is not so bad!  Most even have fun!

I send my couples out a comprehensive photo guide to all things wedding and engagement, as well as a detailed questionnaire to help plan your wedding timeline!  This is sent as soon as the booking is complete!

I have no preference as long as it’s before your big day, but I do book fast so make sure to try and schedule a few months out!

Make your session about YOU! Bring whatever you’d like as props. (Champagne, dogs, pizza, beers, flowers) whatever fits your vibe as a couple! Or just bring yourselves!

Lastly, please know that there are never poses you HAVE to do.  Please let me know what vibe you’re looking for!  Some love playful and silly, others romantic and even a little steamy sometimes.  Most mix it up with a lot of both, but there are absolutely no rules! Just tell me what you’re most comfortable with!

My 2026 season is mostly booked. Message me to snag what’s left before they’re gone!

The post Iowa & Destination Wedding Photographer | Best of Engagements 2025 first appeared on Iowa Wedding Photographer - Amanda Basteen.