What Are Cenotes + Why They Matter (For Your Underwater Photoshoot)

So, I bet you have been doing a TON of research for your trip to Mexico. And after all, why wouldn’t you? You absolutely want to make the best out of your vacation. Whether you are kicking back in Cancun, unwinding in Playa Del Carmen, or solo traveling to Tulum, I know you have been coming across one word over and over: cenotes. These are sort of a big deal around here and for good reason.

So anyway, what even are cenotes?

Cenotes are a naturally occurring sinkhole into an expansive underground system of water. Throughout the history of the Yucatan Peninsula, by a process called soil erosion, caves formed underneath the earth. Over time, these caves filled with fresh rainwater. As the caves age, their ceilings collapse, resulting in what we now refer to as cenotes.

The actual word “cenote” comes from the Mayan word, “ts’onot”. Thus this word is used regionally to describe these sinkholes. One of the most interesting aspects about these cenotes is their inter-connectivity. They not only connect to each other, from Tulum to Cancun but also to the sea and beyond.

Yes, cenotes are a beautiful part of the environment here. But they also play a crucial role to not only the people that live here but also to the many native animals and plants. Cenotes provide the freshwater needed to sustain, diversify, and prosper life.

So! Now that we know a little bit more about the cenotes of Mexico, I want to ask you: what makes them ideal for your underwater portrait?

Cenotes are, simply put, aesthetically breathtaking. They are beautiful crystal clear pools encompassed by a lush vibrant jungle. While it is important to have a gorgeous backdrop for your photoshoot, the greatest benefits are not so obvious. This setting doesn’t only yield great results by providing an incredible scene, it also grounds you in a peaceful mood that radiates into your photos. 

Having this fun experience in a beautiful place is so important. Especially while on vacation, and especially if you are coming for a birthday, wedding, or honeymoon. From the moment you step into the jungle, you are immediately happy with your decision to let your creative side run wild and free. At the end of the day, what matters most, is that you spent your day celebrating life and creating memories to treasure.

Now that you are on set, surrounded by beauty, and feeling grounded, it becomes clear why you chose such a unique photoshoot. While it seems we are off to a good start for this location, it only gets better.

Once in the cenote, you will notice how clear, calm, and fresh the water is. These characteristics benefit not only you but also the photographer. They allow her to get the best quality photos of you. The calm water will help you feel at ease while the freshness of the water will be easy on your skin, hair, and eyes. If you decide to open your eyes underwater for your photos, you will be gently greeted by the freshwater.

Likewise, the freshness of this water is an underwater photographer's dream. It means we have crisp water clarity that makes a difference in the detail of your photos. In an underwater photoshoot, it is these small details that make a difference. This differentiates an ordinary photoshoot from an extraordinary one.