IN THE FOG by THE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IN PORTUGAL
Photos from the session with the bride and groom at the Ruins of the Dominican Convent in the Serra de Montejunto, near Quinta do Castro
• Pode ler este artigo em Português.
The wedding photographer, the lenses, and the surprises of the location
The wedding photographer, in every session, carries not only technical equipment but also intuition, experience, and the ability to improvise. Some days are fully planned. Others, like with Katerina and David, everything changes when the couple says: “Let’s go to a place we know – it’s great for photos.”
That’s how I ended up at an ancient, semi-abandoned monastery, lost in the hills and wrapped in thick fog. And it was in that unexpected location that, as a wedding photographer, I rediscovered the essence of adaptation, creativity, and making the most of what’s in the bag – even if the ideal lens wasn’t there.
The wedding photographer and the lenses: a vital relationship
Each lens has a purpose. Some are perfect for wide shots, others for intimate detail. Some capture scenery, others focus on the couple’s expressions.
How I choose my lenses:
For every wedding photography session, I carry two main lenses:
- A base lens, used in almost every session.
- A complementary one, selected according to the venue or the desired framing.
Sometimes the venue surprises you, and the ideal lens stays behind. In that case, it’s experience, not gear, that defines the result.
Location surprises and the magic of improvisation
Arriving at the monastery was completely unexpected. Worn-down walls, unique textures, and diffused light from the fog. A perfect setting… but without the lenses I would’ve ideally used.
How did I photograph in this situation?
- I quickly studied the lighting and space.
- Directed the bride and groom to spots that offered strong composition.
- Used the textures and the fog to create contrast.
- Adjusted settings creatively for the best outcome.
The result? The wedding photos were stunning – not because I had the perfect lens, but because I knew how to use what I had.
Key points for every wedding photographer
Preparation and flexibility:
- The wedding photographer must be ready for anything – and also able to adapt.
- Plans may change. The weather may shift. Couples may surprise.
About the gear:
- Each lens:
- Has a specific focal length.
- Creates different compositions.
- Defines how close or distant the emotion feels.
- Taking all lenses isn’t always practical, but experience bridges the gap.
When the venue is unknown:
- It might feel uncomfortable.
- But the solution lies in adapting:
- Using the space with creativity.
- Emphasising natural or architectural elements.
- Guiding the couple with confidence.
Practical tips for your wedding day
Planning your wedding day photo session? Consider these tips:
- If there’s a special place you want for your session:
- Let your photographer know in advance.
- Share pictures or videos of the location.
- It helps choose the right lens.
- Even if the venue is a surprise:
- Trust your photographer’s expertise.
- What matters is the bond and the moment.
What sets a good wedding photographer apart?
- Ability to adapt to space and lighting.
- Deep understanding of gear.
- Sensitivity to capture genuine emotions.
- Clear communication with the couple.
Key strengths of a professional photographer:
- In-depth knowledge of each lens’s purpose.
- Skill with light and composition in any setting.
- Confidence during unexpected situations.
- Consistent, emotive, and technically sound results.
Conclusion:
Katerina and David’s foggy monastery session proves that wedding photography thrives at the intersection of technique, creativity, and improvisation. Lenses are important. But it’s the eye and heart of the wedding photographer that capture the moment forever.
Every session is unique, and every couple has their story. Even if the ideal lens stayed in the car, what truly matters is already in the camera – and in the photographer’s soul.
Let’s talk about your day
If you have a special location in mind for your wedding photo session, let me know. I’ll bring the right lenses and create truly unique images. Schedule a meeting and I’ll show you albums, past sessions, and the best plan for your wedding day.
- You can see a full wedding story:
- In Quinta do Castro in Pragança, Cadaval
- These photos were taken at the Ruins of Convento dos Dominicanos at Serra de Montejunto in Cadaval.