Key Tips for an Unforgettable Photo Session in Old San Juan

Old San Juan is a dream setting for family, couple, or individual photos. To ensure your session captures all the magic of this historic place, follow these professional tips inspired by techniques used by the best photographers, completely adapted to our Caribbean pearl.

1. Planning: The Foundation of Success

Location selection:

• Combine tourist icons (El Morro, Fortaleza Street) with secret corners (Capilla Alley, hidden patios)
• Consider logistics: some cobblestone streets are difficult for strollers or elderly adults

Perfect timing:

• Mornings (7-9 AM): Empty streets and crystal-clear light ideal for sharp photos
• “Blue Hour” (30 mins after sunset): When city lights turn on and the sky has a magical tone

2. Outfits that Shine in the Colonial Setting

Recommended color palette:

• Earth tones (beige, terracotta) that contrast with colorful facades
• Pastel blues that harmonize with the sea and sky
• Touches of guajiro red for vibrant accents

Practical tips:

• Avoid large logos or prints that distract
• Bring light layers for quick look changes
• Comfortable but elegant shoes (espadrilles are perfect)

Real example: A family used raw tones with straw hats for their session in Plaza San José, creating a cohesive look that didn’t compete with the vibrant backgrounds.

3. Preparing Children for the Adventure

Child survival kit:

• Small non-sticky treats (mini limbers are ideal)
• Discrete toys (bubbles, pinwheels)
• Change of clothes in case they play with fountains

Techniques for natural smiles:

• Play “I Spy” with architectural details
• Tell local jokes (“What did one coquí say to another?”)
• Schedule the session after a nap or snack

4. The Art of Natural Poses

Authentic interactions:

• Walk hand in hand down Cristo Street
• Sit on century-old steps and share a joke
• Look together toward the sea from the walls

Candid moments that always work:

• Adjusting each other’s hats
• Laughing while trying to pronounce “Aibonito” like locals
• Pointing out interesting architectural details

5. Working with Your Photographer

Before the session:

• Share inspiration images (but let yourself be surprised by local ideas)
• Mention if there are special needs (reduced mobility, allergies)

During the session:

• Trust the directions to take advantage of changing light
• Talk about your family traditions to incorporate them

After:

• Select your favorite photos considering variety of backgrounds and emotions
• Ask about album options with designs inspired by colonial tiles

Bonus: Local Photographers’ Secrets

• The fan trick: Creates movement in dresses and hair
• Unique perspectives: Photographing from high balconies toward cobblestone streets
• Cultural elements: Including a Puerto Rican cuatro or mundillo tablecloth

“At Potographers PR we don’t say ‘say cheese’… we provoke laughter by asking about the best mofongo in Old San Juan.”