Wedding Photography in Portugal: a session in the woods

Looking and smiling at each other, the bride and groom in the woods of Quinta da Cheinha.

WOODS WITH OLD TREES by THE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IN PORTUGAL

Looking and smiling at each other, the bride and groom in the woods of Quinta da Cheinha.

Some photos of the bride and groom during their evening session in the woods, next to Quinta da Cheinha, at the wedding reception


• Pode ler este artigo em Português

Wedding Photographer: A Unique Encounter Between the Couple and Nature

Frames with table appointment cards hanging from a tree at Quinta da Cheinha in Pinhel.

As a wedding photographer, my mission is to capture the most special moments of an unforgettable day. Hélia and Ricardo’s wedding was one of those occasions where I had the chance to explore the natural beauty of the Guarda region and create unique images. While Quinta da Cheinha, in Pinhel, was a charming location for the wedding celebration, what captivated me was the outdoor space. The woods, old trees, and paths became the perfect setting for wedding photographs.

The Magic of Nature on Your Wedding Day

Bride and groom, standing with their faces touching in a session by the wedding photographer.

Every wedding photographer has their tricks and preferences, and for me, the connection with nature is essential. Quinta da Cheinha, in addition to being an excellent venue for the wedding ceremony, offers a wonderful environment for photo sessions. The outside space, with its imposing trees, sturdy trunks, and rich vegetation, provides a cinematic backdrop, perfect for creating portraits with personality.

Things to consider when photographing in a natural space like this:

  • Photographs with the couple: A natural environment has the power to turn a simple image into a portrait full of emotion and meaning.
  • Paths and trails: These winding paths offer a great opportunity to capture movement and the couple’s connection.
  • Visual effects: The trees with moldable trunks and foliage create incredible visual effects, giving me, as a wedding photographer, the chance to play with light and shadow.
  • Peaceful atmosphere: The tranquility of the location allows the couple to feel at ease, resulting in more natural and spontaneous photographs.

The Post-Wedding Photography Session

Leaning against each other, the bride and groom look into the distance, in a photo session in a forest at Quinta da Cheinha.

For a wedding photographer, the photo session with the couple after the ceremony is one of the most special moments. While the first photos are taken during the event, it is at the end of the day, when the golden light of the sunset starts to softly illuminate the surroundings, that the most iconic images emerge. It is at this moment that, with my guidance, I try to capture the couple’s most personal traits.

What makes these sessions so special?

  • Prior knowledge of the couple: Throughout the wedding day, I have already observed the couple’s behavior and gestures, which helps when directing the photo session.
  • Golden sunset light: The soft, warm light at the end of the day gives the photos a unique and romantic tone.
  • Images with personality: I always try to explore the couple’s characteristics so that the photographs reflect their true essence, without forcing artificial poses.

Advantages of Choosing an Experienced Wedding Photographer

Walking through the woods, the bride and groom embrace.

When choosing the right wedding photographer, they must have the ability to capture both spontaneous moments and more elaborate, artistic images. The photographer should understand the couple’s needs and create an atmosphere where they feel comfortable, so that their true emotions shine through in the photos.

Benefits of a specialized wedding photographer:

  • Capturing spontaneous moments: An experienced photographer knows how to capture those unexpected moments that make a wedding day even more special.
  • Directing during photo sessions: Knowing how to guide the couple during the photo session at the end of the day is essential to ensure authentic and emotionally rich portraits.
  • Attention to detail: A good wedding photographer will notice the most subtle details, such as light, backgrounds, and facial expressions, to create high-quality images.
Bride sitting on a garden bench, with trees and a wooden fence in the background.

Conclusion: The Art of Capturing Love

Hélia and Ricardo’s wedding was a true example of how wedding photography can be transformed into art. With the natural backdrop around, the photo session took on a unique dimension. Nature, combined with the couple’s connection, made my photographs come to life.


If you are planning your wedding and want your day captured with the utmost attention to detail and your true essence, contact me. Let’s schedule a meeting to discuss your ideas and how I can create memorable images for your wedding day.


  • You can see a full wedding story:

The groom sitting on the back of a garden bench.

Bride sitting on a bicycle supported by the groom.

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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