RESTART by THE PORTUGAL WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
Photos of a few moments during the wedding party
• Pode ler este artigo em Português.
My Path to Becoming a Wedding Photographer
Being a wedding photographer was never in my plans. When I started my career in photography, I specialised in product advertising. It was a competitive field, visually stimulating, where creativity was prized—or so I thought.
But times changed. The advertising market shrank, and work became scarce. I faced a crossroads, both professionally and personally. I had to pivot. What I didn’t know then was that this pivot would take me straight into the world of wedding photography — something that once made me uncomfortable.
The Prejudice Against Wedding Photography
Among the professionals I worked with, weddings were frowned upon. Wedding photography was seen as uncreative, even cheesy. Compared to fashion or commercial shoots, it lacked appeal.
I remember common remarks:
- “Weddings? That’s for people who failed in fashion.”
- “Wedding photos all look the same.”
- “Creativity dies at weddings.”
To me, weddings lacked artistic challenge. The bride and groom seemed like repetitive characters in a predictable script. But I was wrong. Very wrong.
The First Experience: A Game-Changer
A casual chat with a friend, who owned a photography gear shop, led to a suggestion: “Why not try weddings? I know someone who left advertising and is doing well with weddings.”
I wasn’t convinced. Until one day, without expecting it, I was asked to photograph a wedding. I accepted. That day changed everything.
I remember coming home drained but emotionally fulfilled. For the first time in ages, I felt truly happy with the work I had done.
Creative Freedom on the Wedding Day
Shooting a wedding was liberating. Not because there were no rules, but because there was a purpose. It was like narrating a love story in real time.
The mission became clear:
- Visually tell the couple’s story, from start to finish.
- Capture real moments, genuine smiles, and meaningful details.
- Create lasting memories that the bride and groom will cherish forever.
Photography became more than a technique. It became emotional, empathetic, and narrative-driven.
The Challenges and Rewards of Wedding Photography
Becoming a wedding photographer meant adapting to new dynamics. Timings, guests, emotions — everything demanded attention. But the emotional rewards were unmatched.
What I learned:
- Flexibility: Every wedding is unique. I adapted to different cultures, timelines, and surprises.
- Empathy: Connecting with the couple was key to capturing their story.
- Visual storytelling: Beyond beautiful shots, the goal was to narrate the soul of the day.
Why I Stayed
That first wedding shaped my future. Wedding photography gave me something advertising never did: emotional purpose. It’s demanding but incredibly fulfilling.
It’s not just about wedding photographs. It’s about memory, legacy, and capturing moments that matter.
If You’re Planning Your Wedding…
If you’re preparing for your big day, here are some essential points when choosing your wedding photographer:
What to look for:
- Real wedding experience and emotional, authentic work.
- Storytelling ability, not just pretty poses.
- Empathy and discretion to move among your guests without intrusion.
- Technical skill with artistic vision, backed by full responsibility.
Why hire a professional wedding photographer?
- Peace of mind on your most important day.
- Authentic, emotional wedding photographs.
- A photo story that reflects your love and your wedding’s essence.
Conclusion:
I never imagined wedding photography would become my passion. But it did. I found not just a new career, but a deeper way to express myself. Every wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime story, and it’s an honour to tell it.
Ready to document your wedding day?
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer to tell your story with truth, emotion, and authenticity, I’m here to help. Let’s talk about your special day, your ideas, and your dreams. Contact me to create the visual memory of your life together.
- You can see a full wedding story: