REFERENCE by THE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IN MAFRA
The photos are from inside the Basilica of Mafra during the wedding ceremony
- Pode ler este artigo em Português.
Understanding Scale in Wedding Photography at the Mafra Basilica
A wedding photographer knows that capturing the essence of a space requires more than simply pressing the shutter. On such a special occasion as a wedding day, where everything is lived intensely, the way wedding photography portrays the grandeur or intimacy of a place can deeply influence the memory we keep of that moment. The Mafra Basilica, imposing and monumental, presents a particular challenge: how to faithfully convey its scale and magnificence through an image?
Why scale matters in wedding photos
Scale in images is what allows us to interpret the actual size of photographed elements. Without a clear reference – a person, a familiar object, or a comparison point – the viewer is often left guessing. This is especially relevant for a wedding photographer, particularly in places like the Mafra Basilica, where the vastness of the space can easily be misunderstood if not properly framed.
The importance of visual reference
- When we view an image without any reference element, it’s hard to tell whether we’re looking at a 2-metre or 20-metre statue.
- The presence of a human element – be it the groom, the bride, or the wedding guests – is essential to contextualise the space.
- Using scale allows the viewer to get a realistic feel for the environment of the wedding ceremony.
Wide-angle lenses and space perception
To capture the full dimension and depth of large spaces like churches or cathedrals, the wedding photographer often uses wide-angle lenses. These lenses include more of the environment in the frame, but can distort perception if not used properly.
What can alter the sense of dimension?
- Wide-angle lenses stretch lines and push back backgrounds.
- Lack of recognisable elements confuses the observer.
- The geometry of buildings may appear exaggerated or flattened depending on the photographer’s position.
Mafra Basilica as the wedding ceremony setting
Holding the wedding ceremony at the Mafra Basilica is a rare privilege. The space is grand, majestic, with immense columns, high domes, and richly detailed architecture. Photographing this grandeur demands technique, sensitivity, and a deep understanding of light and composition.
How to faithfully represent the grandeur of the Basilica:
- Include the bride and groom in the frame of the central nave.
- Use strategic positioning to highlight architectural lines.
- Work with lighting to enhance the depth of structural elements.
Key points to ensure a proper sense of scale
- Use the human body as a measure: the wedding guests, the bride and groom, or even musicians become scale references.
- Mind the perspective: very low or wide angles can mislead the eye.
- Respect visual harmony: a well-composed image tells more than a thousand words.
When photos deceive: photographic disappointments
Many of us have experienced this: seeing a photo of a square or a waterfall, and upon visiting, realising it was much smaller (or larger) than expected. The same can happen with images of the wedding ceremony venue.
Why does this happen?
- No comparison elements present.
- Poor lens usage.
- Excessive editing that distorts proportions.
Technique in the service of emotion
Yes, this is a technical article, but the wedding photographer’s ultimate goal isn’t just to show technique: it’s to convey emotions, create memories, and tell stories. The technique of scale, when applied with sensitivity, helps show the real setting of the wedding, the place where everything happened, and how each detail was deeply felt by the bride, groom, and guests.
Conclusion
In wedding photography, scale is a powerful tool to contextualise space, emotion, and the moment. Especially in venues like the Mafra Basilica, understanding how to use reference and framing is essential to convey the true essence of the space where love is celebrated. More than technique, it’s about visual storytelling.
Contact a wedding photographer who understands the importance of detail
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who understands not just technique, but the emotion behind each image, I’m available to tell your story with sensitivity and professionalism. Your wedding deserves to be remembered exactly as it was lived: with truth, grandeur, and feeling.
- You can see a full wedding story:
- The photos are of the Basilica of Mafra