Vila Real Wedding Photographer: the support during the day

Hands button the cufflinks of the shirt, in the dress for the wedding, composed by the wedding photographer in Portugal.

HELPERS by THE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IN PORTUGAL

Hairdresser's hand, over the bride's hair, in a mirror on a hanger at the bride's parents house, by the wedding photographer in Alentejo.

Photos of the bride and her mother during the wedding preparation process


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Wedding Photographer: Capturing the Moments of Preparation on the Wedding Day

Mother of the bride observes the work in her daughter's hair.

The wedding photographer’s work begins long before the ceremony itself. The wedding day is filled with emotional moments, and the couple’s preparation is one phase that deserves careful attention. While wedding photographers are often faced with spaces that are not ideal for wedding photography, it is during this stage that creativity and skill come to the forefront.

When the bride is having her hair and makeup done, the location chosen for this moment is not always the most photogenic. Often, this happens in family homes or the couple’s own house, presenting challenges for the photographer. However, this is exactly where the wedding photographer finds various opportunities to capture special and unique images.

The Groom and Bride’s Preparation for the Big Day

A tiara in the bride's hair, while they do her hairstyle.

At the start of the wedding day, the wedding photographer needs to look for all the support points that can help frame the process. Searching for simple details like a flower vase for the foreground, a half-open door, or even a decorative mirror can turn a simple scene into a powerful image. Each of these elements becomes part of the narrative told through wedding photography.

Step by step:

  • Space analysis: As soon as the wedding photographer arrives at the venue where the couple is preparing, the first task is to identify the best spots to capture images.
  • Exploring decorative elements: The photographer looks for objects or details that can enrich the composition, like flowers or sentimental items.
  • Lens choice: Depending on the space and distances, the photographer selects the most appropriate lenses to capture the best of the environment.

The Importance of Mirrors in Wedding Photography

Mirrors are one of the most creative tools a wedding photographer can use. Not only do they provide reflections, but they also serve to explore different angles and create visual compositions that can add a special touch to the wedding album.

  • Increases capturing possibilities: Mirrors provide reflections that make the photos more dynamic and interesting.
  • Experimenting with different framing: A mirror can be used to create unexpected framing, uniquely capturing the bride or groom.
  • Stimulating creativity: Using mirrors challenges the photographer to view the environment differently, sparking new ideas for the photos.

The Magic of the Wedding Day: Moments Beyond Images

It’s essential for the wedding photographer to not only capture aesthetic images but also to register the essence of the day. The goal is always to capture spontaneous moments that reflect the emotion of the wedding, from the most delicate details to the grand gestures.

Photos Before the Ceremony

While the photographs during the wedding ceremony are of utmost importance, the moments before walking down the aisle are just as crucial. The wedding photographer takes advantage of these preparation hours to capture intimate and expectant moments. Furthermore, family members, friends, and wedding guests, who are nearby, often become an important part of the scene, helping to tell the visual story of the day.

The Role of Guests in Wedding Photography

Wedding guests play a crucial role in the photographer’s work. They may enter the photos as secondary characters, but in some way, they are essential to the composition of the images. Their presence creates an authentic atmosphere and humanizes the photographs, making them more real and engaging.

  • Natural elements: The presence of guests helps create a spontaneous and natural environment, free of forced poses.
  • Support for the photographer: Many guests can be used to create blurred frames that highlight the bride or groom, or even balance the composition of photos.

Conclusion: The Value of Wedding Photography

A wedding photographer’s work is not only about capturing images but about telling the story of a unique day. Every element, detail, and person present at the event contributes to the narrative that will be told through the photos. The photographer’s ability to use the environment, objects, and people around them makes all the difference in creating an unforgettable wedding album.


If you are planning your wedding and want to ensure that every moment, from preparations to the ceremony, is captured uniquely, get in touch with me. Together, we can create a wedding album that truly reflects the beauty and emotion of your special day. Schedule a meeting, and let’s talk about your ideas!


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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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