The Wedding Photographer in Portugal: like an artisan, part two

On the wright and in a mirror, the bride smiles at her grandmother, by the wedding photographer in Castelo de Vide.

 MOLDING PHOTOGRAPHY by THE PORTALEGRE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

On the wright and in a mirror, the bride smiles at her grandmother, by the wedding photographer in Castelo de Vide.

The photo is of the bride, in a mirror on a piece of furniture, with her grandmother before leaving for the wedding ceremony in Castelo de Vide


• Pode ler este artigo em Português

When executing their work, the wedding photographer sees themselves as an artisan

Wedding photography is not just capturing moments; it is about replicating the world. For many wedding photographers, their work is an almost artisan process, where each image is carefully crafted to convey not only the moment but also the emotion, atmosphere, and unique details of the big day.

This is the context in which the approach of many professionals can be understood, as they consider themselves artisans of photography, shaping each photo like a masterpiece. The way light, angles, and capture techniques are chosen reflects deep and careful work, more than a mere technical task.


The way to capture the photographs: choice of techniques

There are many ways to apply photography techniques to capture the essence of the wedding day. For the wedding photographer, exposure, light measurement, and capture methods play a crucial role in creating the perfect image. Every decision made, whether it’s choosing continuous light or flash, or using natural elements like lamps or mirrors, alters the final interpretation of the photograph.

  • Choosing the right light can completely change the atmosphere of an image.
  • Using reflectors helps to fill darker spaces, balancing the composition.
  • The positioning of the bride, groom, and wedding guests can be adjusted, depending on what the photographer needs for their style of wedding photography.
  • The technical conditions of the equipment also impact how the photos are captured and processed later.

Every technical decision is crucial to getting the best photograph, considering that the scene cannot be repeated. What really makes the difference is the ability to capture the essence of the moment without interruptions or obvious modifications, respecting the natural flow of the wedding day.

Light in wedding photography: capturing the truth of the moment

When I started photographing weddings, I quickly realized that to be a good wedding photographer, I would have to adopt a method that would not only allow me to capture the true essence of the day but also solve the technical challenges that arise in each session. From the very beginning, I placed the capture of truth as a priority, without aggressively interfering in the moments unfolding before my eyes.

  • The speed of moments at a wedding requires quick action from the photographer.
  • There is no time to wait and adjust the light or move reflectors during the wedding ceremony.
  • The photographer must be discreet and efficient so as not to interrupt the natural flow of moments.
  • The light used should enhance the emotion of the moment, not interfere with it.

Over the years, I realized that my approach could not be hindered by the need for excessive adjustments on-site. The wedding photographer’s job goes beyond the capture of the image; it is necessary to act quickly and sensitively, respecting the flow of the event. The light we choose, the discreet behavior, and the creative choices made at the moment of capture are crucial for the final result. Every wedding photograph should appear spontaneous, but in reality, it is the result of a careful eye and precise decisions.

The process in wedding photography: digital craftsmanship

The process of creating images in the context of a wedding, for me, has always been a fusion of the old and the new. The comparison between the black-and-white lab process, when I still used film, and the possibilities offered by digital photography is one of the ways I describe my work as a wedding photographer. It is not much different from the traditional image manipulation processes, like “tapping and untapping” negatives to extract every detail necessary.

  • Digital photography offers flexibility in the editing process, but it requires a deep understanding of the process.
  • The editing work is a continuation of the creative process of capturing the image.
  • Digital image treatment is essential for finalizing wedding photographs.
  • Each wedding photograph is worked on with the same precision as an artisan sculpting their masterpiece.

The craftsmanship I apply in each wedding photo goes beyond its capture. It is like a sculpture of light and shadow, where each detail is worked to extract the maximum from what the scene offers. The art of wedding photography is not only technical but also emotional and creative. When people write that photography is a sculpture, I completely agree, as this is how I see my work.

The art of the wedding photographer: capturing unique moments

Wedding photography is not simply documentation; it is an art form that requires sensitivity and technique. The ability of a wedding photographer to transform what could be a simple moment into something unforgettable, full of emotion, is what sets them apart. It is not just about capturing the bride, groom, or the wedding ceremony, but about telling a visual story that takes the wedding guests back to the special day every time they look at the photographs.

  • Each photo is a work that needs to capture the essence of the bride, groom, and event.
  • The wedding photographer’s skill lies in anticipating the most important moments and preparing the scene so nothing is lost.
  • Wedding guests often play a key role in the photographic scene.
  • The wedding photographer has the power to freeze time and preserve memories for a lifetime.

So, each image captured at a wedding represents a piece of the unique story of that day. A wedding photographer must be a storyteller, using light, composition, and technique to create images that will move the bride, groom, and their families for many years.


If you are planning your wedding and want to capture every moment with the same precision and dedication of an artisan, get in touch with me! As a wedding photographer, my goal is to create images that are not just photos but emotional keepsakes that will tell your story for a lifetime. Let’s turn your big day into a photographic masterpiece!


  • You can see a full wedding story:

By Fernando Colaço

I am Fernando Colaço a wedding photographer based in Portugal. My approach to wedding photography is open and not intruder, leaving the event just to happen. We may call it photojournalism. But, it is better to let the photos talk. I am at your service.

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