FINDING THE LOST MIRROR by THE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IN PORTUGAL
From a photo, during the preparation of the bride, Carla, in Reguengos de Monsaraz where the wedding ceremony took place
• Pode ler este artigo em Português.
Never Give Up on a Wedding Photograph
The wedding photographer’s determination on the couple’s day
As a wedding photographer, one thing stands out in many of my assignments: persistence. From the first click to the final glance captured, the commitment is not just with the bride and groom, but with wedding photography itself, with every moment, every detail, every unexpected reflection. One of the greatest examples of this is mirrors, those magical elements that fascinate me so much.
I’ve mentioned in previous articles how much I enjoy photographing through mirrors. This fascination often becomes an obsessive pursuit of the perfect composition, even when everything seems to be working against it. This obsession isn’t just aesthetic – it’s a creative tool that, when used well, can result in truly unique wedding photographs.
When everything seems to fail, don’t give up
The experience that inspired this article happened at a wedding where the mirror seemed uncooperative. After trying two seemingly appropriate lenses and almost giving up, I decided to test a third option – a less conventional one. To my surprise, it was with that lens that I captured the bride, being styled, perfectly reflected in the mirror.
That moment was not just a technical victory. It was a clear reminder that a wedding photographer must be resilient. One must insist, experiment, try different angles, switch lenses, until the image appears. That photo became special not just because of the result, but because of the perseverance behind it.
Wedding photography requires more than technique
A good wedding photographer isn’t just someone who masters their camera. It’s someone who observes attentively, moves discreetly, improvises creatively, and, above all, doesn’t give up easily. It’s this attitude that turns a simple image into something memorable.
Step by step: how to capture the impossible shot
- Making the most of available mirrors
- Well-positioned mirrors are powerful allies.
- When badly placed or disproportionate, the challenge increases.
- Still, there’s always a way to work around it.
- Frequent difficulties when shooting with mirrors at a wedding
- Mirrors are too small to frame the desired scene.
- The mirrors are too large, losing the reflection effect.
- Unfavourable positions that don’t show what you want.
- Creative solutions to overcome those challenges
- Use a stool or chair to adjust the viewpoint.
- Moving the mirror (when possible).
- Switching to the lens that best fits the situation.
The key is persistence. Insist, experiment, adapt – these are the qualities that separate a committed wedding photographer from a mere camera operator.
A commitment beyond the contract
Some might think the wedding photographer is only there to fulfil a service agreement. That couldn’t be more wrong. The real commitment begins with the first click, and it’s with the photos that this bond deepens. The ultimate goal isn’t just to document the wedding day but to capture the soul of the event, the emotions of the couple, the tenderness of the wedding guests, and the small gestures that define an unforgettable wedding ceremony.
What truly motivates the wedding photographer?
- The excitement of finding the right moment, in the right place
- The sparkle in the bride and groom’s eyes when they first see the images
- The sense of accomplishment after capturing that difficult shot
These elements are the fuel behind our work. That’s why, even when everything seems against us, giving up is never an option.
Between tables, chairs, and flowers: there’s always a shot waiting
If, during your wedding day, you see the photographer in strange positions – crouched behind a table, stretched beside a chair, hidden behind a vase – don’t think he is playing hide-and-seek. I will be capturing the photograph that will make all the difference in your wedding album.
And if you’re curious, come talk to me. Ask questions. See some images, share your excitement. Wedding photography is also made of these small interactions – of stories within the story.
Conclusion
Never giving up on a wedding photograph is more than a professional motto – it’s a philosophy. Every wedding is unique, every bride and groom has their own story, and every detail deserves to be captured with dedication. Mirrors are just one of many tools we use to turn moments into lasting memories. But the true secret lies in never giving up.
Your moment deserves more than ordinary photos
If you’re planning your wedding and want a wedding photographer who truly dives into the details and emotion of the moment, talk to me. Together, we can ensure that your wedding photographs are more than just images – they’re fragments of your story. Get in touch and let’s see how we can capture your wedding day with authenticity and passion.
- You can see a full wedding story:
- At Reguengos de Monsaraz in Alentejo, Portugal