An Elopement Session at Estoril garden and beach

the bride's kiss in a session with the wedding photographer.

ESTORIL GARDEN by THE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IN CASCAIS

The groom tries to evade, as a joke, the bride's kiss in a session with the wedding photographer.

The photos are from an elopement session in the Casino garden and on Estoril Beach


• Pode ler este artigo em Português

The Integration of the Surrounding Space in Pre-Wedding and Dating Photography

Bride portrait at pre wedding session.

The integration of the surrounding space in pre-wedding or dating photography has gained prominence in recent years. More and more, couples and wedding photographers are looking for locations that not only complement but also enrich the images, creating a unique and memorable visual narrative. A good wedding photographer knows that the setting is not just any background; it is an integral part of the story being told, the emotions to be captured, and the atmosphere of the wedding day.


The Importance of the Environment in Wedding Photography

The bride and groom in the dating session among the palm trees in the Estoril Casino Garden.

When thinking about wedding photography, many people imagine the portraits of the couple, the details of the dress, and the exchanged glances between them. However, it is the surrounding environment that gives depth and context to these images. It is not just about aesthetics but also about creating a deeper connection between the couple and the place where the photos are taken.

When the wedding photographer chooses a location for the pre-wedding photo session, the choice of setting should be based on several criteria: the beauty of the place, the emotions it evokes, and how it aligns with the couple’s story. For example, if the garden of the Casino in Estoril is chosen, it is not only for its visual value but also for how its aged vegetation and towering trees can symbolize the strength and continuity of the couple’s love.

• The integration of the environment enriches the narrative of the photograph
• The chosen setting can reflect the couple’s emotions
• Wedding photos are more impactful when the location has history
• The wedding photographer can use the space to create unique compositions

The Photographer’s Relationship with the Natural Environment

The groom and bride walking in a garden before the wedding.

Outdoor photography is a unique opportunity to connect artistic work with nature. In the case of a pre-wedding session, the natural environment plays a dominant role in creating authentic and emotional images. For the photographer, it is important to explore the textures, colors, and natural light the environment offers. When the wedding photographer finds the right location, he can use the landscape as the perfect frame for the moments captured.

In the case of the photo session with Eloísa and Mário in the Estoril garden, for example, the scene of aged trees and leaves complements the couple’s emotions, creating a calm and intimate atmosphere. It does not matter that the weather was not ideal; the true wedding photographer knows how to take advantage of every situation and turn any challenge into a creative opportunity. The environment serves not only as a frame but also as a protagonist in the couple’s visual story.

• The natural environment is an essential tool for the wedding photographer
• Each location has the potential to convey a different emotion
• The couple’s interaction with the environment can generate spontaneous and authentic images
• Natural light helps capture moments of intimacy and closeness

The Beach Photo Session and the Connection with the Sea

Bride and groom walk among the very old trees in the Casino Estoril garden.

When nature does not favor the initial setting, as happened with the Estoril garden, the flexibility of the wedding photographer in choosing a new location is crucial. The beach, with its open and expansive scenery, is another popular choice for pre-wedding and dating sessions. The vastness of the sea and the soft light of sunset provide a sense of freedom and romance that few locations can match.

In Eloísa and Mário’s session, the photographer decided to move to Tamariz beach. Despite the adverse weather conditions, the tranquility of the location and the shelter offered by the beach provided the necessary comfort for the photographs to continue being captured with quality. The wedding photographer knows that, more than any location, the important thing is to create an environment where the couple feels at ease, allowing the images to flow naturally.

• The photographer’s flexibility is crucial to making the most of the setting
• The beach is a location that brings lightness and romance to the photos
• Sunset on the beach offers soft light that can be ideal for capturing intimate moments
• Changing the environment can bring new energy to the photos

The Pre-Wedding Session as a Reflection of the Wedding Day

Groom kiss the hand of the bride.

Although the pre-wedding or dating session is not a direct reproduction of the wedding day, it serves as a prologue to the big day. The emotions, the bond between the couple, and the way they relate to the environment can be a reflection of what will be experienced on the day of the ceremony. Wedding photos that capture these moments of natural interaction between the couple create a visual narrative that goes far beyond traditional formal portraits.

In all these experiences, the wedding photographer plays a crucial role: he must be able to read the dynamics of the couple and the environment and use this to create unique images. Like a good rehearsal, the pre-wedding session prepares the ground for what is to come on the wedding day, where every detail, every gesture, and every glance will tell the story of an unforgettable moment.

• The pre-wedding session prepares the couple for the big day
• Natural interactions during the session reflect the couple’s bond
• The wedding photographer must be skilled in capturing authentic emotions
• The pre-wedding session is an opportunity for the couple to get used to the camera lens

Conclusion: The Magic of Wedding Photography

Bride and groom sitting on a bench in the garden with large palm trees in the background.

Wedding photography goes far beyond capturing moments. It involves the art of telling stories and capturing feelings that will last forever. The integration of the surrounding space, whether a garden, a beach, or another setting, plays a key role in creating these timeless images. Each place has its character and, when well explored, can transform simple wedding photos into works of art.


If you want your wedding photos to reflect the essence of your relationship and the beauty of the environment surrounding you, contact me. Together, we will create unique images that capture every detail of your big day, with the dedication and professionalism that only an experienced wedding photographer can offer.


  • You can see a full wedding story:

Bride leaning against an ancient tree with the groom in front, posing for the wedding photographer.

The two, bride and groom between the trunks of two ancient trees in Estoril.

Bride tries to kiss the groom playing.

Portrait of the bride under the leafy trees in the Casino Estoril garden.

Groom hugs the bride, sitting on the back of a garden bench before the wedding.

Groom kisses the bride on the cheek, at Estoril Beach with the moon in the background.

The groom and the bride in a photo session at Praia do Estoril, walk on the sand.

Bride and groom posing in front of the sea in the dating session.

Grooms, in the dating session, laughing at Praia do Estoril at dusk.

Bride kisses the groom already at sunset, on the beach of Estoril in her pre-wedding session.

View of Estoril beach with moon in the background and bride and groom before getting married.

The wedding couple sitting on a rock on the beach.

Portrait of the groom before the wedding, on the beach at dusk.

Estoril beach on the sea side, with newlyweds in a courtship session.

By Fernando Colaço

I am Fernando Colaço a wedding photographer based in Portugal. My approach to wedding photography is open and not intruder, leaving the event just to happen. We may call it photojournalism. But, it is better to let the photos talk. I am at your service.

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