THE GUYS by THE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IN CASCAIS
As the groom and his friends prepared for the wedding ceremony in the Church of Santo António do Estoril, at the Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel
• Pode ler este artigo em Português.
The Wedding Photographer: The Groom and His Friends Getting Ready
The wedding photographer, as a silent witness and keen observer, has the privilege of capturing the most genuine and unexpected moments of the wedding day. One of those special moments is undoubtedly the groom and his friends – his “squires” – getting ready in an atmosphere of camaraderie and calm chaos, gradually transforming into key figures of an unforgettable day.
While the bride surrounds herself with professionals like makeup artists, hairdressers, and bridesmaids, the groom often approaches this moment very differently, but no less meaningfully or photogenically.
The Groom’s Preparation: Brotherhood and Improvisation
Upon arriving at the place where the groom is gathered with his friends – often a hotel room or family home – the wedding photographer finds a scene full of energy, nervous laughs, and small distractions. The environment is relaxed, yet with a clear goal: to get ready for the big wedding ceremony.
A Raw and Authentic Setting
Unlike the bride’s structured and pampered preparation, the groom often relies on his closest friends or relatives to help with:
- Adjusting the suit and tie or bowtie;
- Choosing accessories (cufflinks, watch, pocket square);
- Guidance for etiquette details that not everyone knows.
- Time management – which, let’s face it, isn’t always a priority.
Wedding Day Details
In this semi-chaotic but personality-filled setting, the wedding photographer finds the best opportunities for emotional and aesthetic shots. The natural gestures, the genuine friendships, the inside jokes – all contribute to wedding photographs that tell real, soulful stories.
When the Photographer Steps In… with the Tie
Though there to capture moments, it’s not unusual for the wedding photographer to lend a hand. A poorly tied knot, a crooked collar, or a misfolded pocket square might require intervention, ensuring everything looks just right for the lens and the grand entrance to the wedding ceremony.
The Groom’s Circle: Between Toasts, Jokes, and Brotherhood
The groom is rarely alone during this time. Friends, brothers, or cousins – his close circle – are always there. These “squires” might lack professional training, but they bring something far more valuable: mutual trust, humour, and a deep will to make the moment unforgettable.
Highlights:
- There’s always someone who steps up to help with tricky details.
- When there’s uncertainty, they figure it out together, often resulting in the most meaningful photos.
- Spontaneous moments like a toast, a song, or a laugh create priceless memories.
The Wedding Photographer’s Vision
The mission of the wedding photographer goes beyond taking photos. It involves reading the room, being patient for the perfect moment, and anticipating reactions. When focusing on the groom and his friends, the photographer becomes a silent narrator who uses imagery to express the atmosphere and energy of that time.
Best Practices for the Photographer:
- Don’t interfere too much, but be ready to help.
- Build rapport with the group to make the camera feel natural.
- Spot unique moments and creative angles;
- Capture the space, wardrobe, and interactions for complete storytelling.
Real Example: Getting Ready at Hotel Grande Real Villa Itália, Cascais
In a recent wedding in Cascais, at the Hotel Grande Real Villa Itália, the groom met with his friends in a hotel suite before heading to the wedding ceremony. The setting was ideal: natural light, classic decor, and a vibrant group.
What Made It Special:
- The relaxed vibe allowed spontaneous and emotional shots.
- Strong bonds make for rich visual storytelling.
- The lack of perfection led to moments of real authenticity, perfect for wedding photography.
Conclusion
The groom’s preparation with his friends is a fundamental part of the wedding day, often overlooked but full of authenticity. It’s a moment of friendship, improvisation, and emotion – the perfect ingredients for wedding photos that tell true stories. While the bride’s side often strives for perfection, the groom brings simplicity and honesty – and this, too, deserves to be remembered.
Let’s Talk?
Planning your wedding and want to make sure every moment, even the unscripted ones, is captured beautifully? As a wedding photographer, I’m here to help. Let’s talk about your big day and how to turn it into visual memories that last a lifetime.
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