{"id":4378,"date":"2022-01-05T19:16:18","date_gmt":"2022-01-05T19:16:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ritaplacidophotography.com\/?p=4378"},"modified":"2025-03-26T14:28:21","modified_gmt":"2025-03-26T14:28:21","slug":"como-comecei-fotografar-casamentos","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ritaplacidophotography.com\/pt\/how-i-started-photographing-weddings\/","title":{"rendered":"Como comecei a fotografar casamentos e porque n\u00e3o deves fazer como eu"},"content":{"rendered":"

Some time ago on Instagram, I talked about my first wedding. I promised to share my story with you and tell you how I started photographing weddings<\/strong>, along with some advice for those who are just beginning<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

My journey into wedding photography began in 2017. Until then, I had no experience<\/strong> or contact with this world, its rituals, or how it worked. I had never even attended a wedding, not even as a guest. I had just finished the HND in Art and Design Photography course at ETIC and was convinced I wanted to pursue fashion photography. At the time, we were taught that wedding photography was undervalued. We were conditioned to believe that this type of photography was something we shouldn\u2019t even consider, that only “bad photographers” went into it to make money, and that it was an area where creativity was stifled. Moreover, the wedding photographers I knew at the time were very traditional, and I didn\u2019t identify with their style.<\/p>\n

In early 2017<\/strong>, around April, I came across a LinkedIn job posting from a photography studio looking for an intern\u2014yes, it specifically stated that it had to be a woman. I applied for the internship and was eventually contacted for an interview. After the interview, the photographers from the studio invited me to assist at a wedding, which I accepted without hesitation. I prepared all my gear, highly enthusiastic, and was at the photographer\u2019s house at 7 AM sharp. I don\u2019t know exactly how many hours the wedding lasted or how long I was on my feet, but for a 21-year-old who knew nothing about the industry, it was utterly exhausting. I remember getting home after 1 AM. During the day, contrary to my expectations, I didn\u2019t actually take any photos; instead, I carried equipment, held lights, organized guests for group photos, and essentially observed the dynamics. Despite not photographing, I learned a lot that day because I had the opportunity to understand the timing of a wedding, what a photographer should pay attention to, and the fast-paced nature of the job. I saw a wedding from a perspective that a guest never sees. For various reasons, I didn\u2019t continue working with this team, but it opened my eyes to wedding photography. From that point on, I started researching professionals in the field and trying to find a style I identified with. This was when I discovered some great wedding photographers in Portugal, whom I still admire today, such as Adriana Morais, Hugo Coelho, and others.<\/p>\n

In 2017, I was invited to two more weddings. Just a week after assisting at that first wedding, I attended a wedding as a guest for the first time. Even though I didn\u2019t resonate with that photographer\u2019s style, I was fascinated. I followed the photographers with my eyes everywhere they went and took mental notes of their actions.<\/p>\n

In September, I attended my cousin\u2019s wedding, this time with a more documentary-style photographer. It was the first time I saw firsthand the work of a photographer whose approach and values I identified with<\/strong>. They had asked for my help in checking prices (even though I knew nothing at the time!!). But the photographers charged a fair price, which was also a great reference point for me regarding market rates. At that wedding, I was that annoying guest every photographer dreads\u2014the one with a camera taking pictures of everything. I photographed the preparations (not of the couple but of the guests), the ceremony, and the cocktail hour. Even at this stage, I didn\u2019t want to intrude on the “photographer\u2019s moments” or disrespect their work. But it was a great opportunity to see the photographer in action, compare my photos with the final delivered ones, and take my first portfolio-worthy shots.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Photograph I took at my cousin\u2019s wedding, September 2017<\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

Shortly after this wedding, the sister of one of my oldest and closest friends told me she was getting married and wanted me to be her wedding photographer. I felt a mix of excitement and sheer terror. While I was incredibly grateful and honoured, I was completely transparent and told them I had no experience photographing weddings and that I believed (and still do) that it is too important an event to entrust to an amateur. They still wanted me to do it and were willing to pay whatever I asked.<\/p>\n

On the wedding day, I was a nervous wreck, in a constant state of stress. It wasn\u2019t as bad as I expected because I was surrounded by people who made me feel comfortable. I even stayed at the bride\u2019s house the night before because I was terrified of being late (whoever heard of a photographer sleeping at the bride\u2019s house?). Most of the guests were family members who had watched me grow up, and even my mother was there. Because I felt so at ease with them, I think I was able to calm my nerves more than I would have with any other family.<\/p>\n

Another major help that day was my dear friend Patr\u00edcia Louren\u00e7o (from SoftBox), whom I asked to assist me. For those unfamiliar with the terminology, weddings typically have a lead photographer (hired by the couple) and sometimes a second photographer (hired by the main photographer to assist). In this case, Patr\u00edcia was my right hand, left hand, and legs. We both shot the wedding as “lead photographers,” but I was responsible for editing the photos and crafting the final story (since it was my wedding gig). Without her presence that day, the outcome would not have been as good. For instance, during the ceremony, I struggled to find the perfect settings for the lighting due to my lack of experience. While I experimented, Patr\u00edcia ensured that everything was still being captured. She made sure the couple received the essential photos they were paying for, and I was able to work at my own pace and learn. Do I think this was ideal for my first wedding? No, I don\u2019t, and I\u2019ll explain why later. Even though the couple loved my photos, the results wouldn\u2019t have been as good without Patr\u00edcia\u2019s help and confidence.<\/p>\n

I am very proud of this wedding. Even though it was my first, I still love the photos. My visual style has evolved over the years, but these are images I revisit with pride. You can see this wedding here.<\/p>\n

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Photograph from my first wedding, December 2017.<\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

After photographing my first weddings alone, I realized that they were not as good as I had hoped. I lacked the necessary experience, made countless mistakes, and struggled significantly. I wasn\u2019t technically prepared, nor did I have the right mindset for handling everything on my own. While my couples were happy with the results, I knew deep down that I didn\u2019t yet have the rhythm required for this demanding profession.<\/p>\n

Today, I want to share some advice for photographers entering the wedding industry\u2014things I wish I had known when I started.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t Photograph Your First Wedding Alone<\/strong><\/h3>\n

As I mentioned earlier, and despite this being the exact opposite of how I started photographing weddings, this field is incredibly demanding. It\u2019s an important day in the couple\u2019s life that cannot be redone. Moreover, it is a physically and mentally exhausting day for the professionals involved.<\/p>\n

On the physical side, you are on your feet for more than 12 hours, often crouching, running, walking backward\u2014essentially, performing all sorts of maneuvers. On the mental side, you must maintain constant focus throughout the day, always anticipating key moments to ensure you capture \u201cthat perfect shot.\u201d<\/p>\n

Additionally, someone unfamiliar with wedding procedures from a photographer\u2019s perspective will inevitably miss essential moments that are crucial to telling the story of the day.<\/p>\n

That being said, if you do decide to photograph your first wedding alone, be completely transparent with the couple. Lay all the cards on the table so they have all the necessary information before making a decision. Nothing is more disheartening than seeing a couple disappointed with their wedding photos and knowing deep down that you didn\u2019t do your best. Acknowledge your limitations and communicate them clearly. It\u2019s better to be upfront than to hold back and end up receiving a negative review that could harm your career right from the start. If you don\u2019t feel comfortable shooting alone, let the couple know that you\u2019ll be bringing another photographer. There\u2019s absolutely nothing wrong with that, and honesty is always the better choice.<\/p>\n

For example, I have a wedding coming up in 2022 where I told the couple that, for several reasons, I didn\u2019t feel comfortable photographing it alone. They understood, agreed, and I\u2019ll be bringing a colleague with me. I would much rather be open about it than go alone and not deliver my best work.<\/p>\n

Work as a Second Shooter<\/h2>\n

I\u2019ve been doing this type of work since 2018, and I really enjoy it. In my opinion, the best way to learn wedding photography is by observing someone else. Of course, workshops and lectures are valuable, but there\u2019s nothing like watching another photographer in action\u2014seeing how they interact with clients, the decisions they make, and the risks they take.<\/p>\n

Additionally, it allows you to work in different markets from the one you may be targeting. This pushes your creativity because you\u2019re not always photographing the same type of clients, forcing you to adapt to different people and situations. In my opinion, this makes you a better photographer.<\/p>\n

If you haven\u2019t started shooting weddings yet, working for another photographer is also a great way to build your portfolio so that, when the time comes to shoot your own weddings, you have work to show. However, keep in mind that the lead photographer won\u2019t have time to teach you on the wedding day. It\u2019s crucial to be prepared and not expect a “one-on-one” lesson during the event. If that\u2019s your goal, there are photographers who offer mentorship services, and you\u2019ll definitely learn a lot from them.<\/p>\n

Shoot a Full Wedding Season<\/h2>\n

Even though I had been in the industry for four years, I feel like I only truly discovered what wedding photography is this past year. I had never had such a busy season\u2014barely any free days and countless hours on the road. I booked many dates, not just for my own weddings but also for assisting other photographers.<\/p>\n

Halfway through, I realized that this was the year I would find out whether I truly loved what I was doing. I believe that anyone who isn\u2019t genuinely passionate about wedding photography will struggle to get through an entire season because it demands so much from us technically, physically, and emotionally. Fortunately, for me, this experience only reassured me that I made the right career choice.<\/p>\n

Of course, you can still do the job without loving it, but your photos won\u2019t show passion. There\u2019s something special about photographing a wedding and genuinely feeling happy to be there.<\/p>\n

Practice Whenever You Can<\/h2>\n

When I first started, I spent two years taking photos every single day. Even if it was just self-portraits or pictures of my room, I picked up my camera daily. This helps train your eye, experiment with techniques, and gain confidence for when you start working professionally.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s also important to practice with people. Do you want to photograph weddings? Ask some friends who are couples if you can take their photos. This will help you improve your technical skills, learn how to interact with clients, and build a portfolio to showcase your work. Everyone starts somewhere, and nobody gets hired without having something to show. So, practice as much as possible!<\/p>\n

In 2019, I only photographed three weddings, but I did several couple sessions\u2014many unpaid. But for me, it was a great opportunity to practice everything, from posing to client communication. And it makes a huge difference! Especially the interaction with people, which is also a skill that can be developed.<\/p>\n

On a wedding day, we are more than just someone pressing a button. We manage people, guide them through the photography process, and help calm their nerves. So, besides training the technical side, it\u2019s just as crucial to develop strong interpersonal skills.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t Be Afraid to Ask for Help<\/h2>\n

There are many experienced photographers willing to help, share their experiences, and even take you along to their weddings.<\/p>\n

Until 2020, I thought this profession was very lonely, and I often felt bad. “Do other photographers have the same struggles as me?” “Is everyone else fully booked except for me?” So many doubts. Fortunately, the pandemic brought professionals closer together, fostering more open discussions on social media and within the industry.<\/p>\n

In 2021, Women on Weddings was created, which completely changed my perspective on the industry. Now, I feel supported and understood by an amazing group of women who experience the same challenges I do. Even if they don\u2019t, they always have kind words or helpful advice to share.<\/p>\n

Learn Whenever You Can<\/h2>\n

We are always learning. I strongly believe that no professional should ever feel like they have nothing left to learn. Because once you reach that point, it means you also have nothing left to give\u2014you stop evolving, and you become stagnant.<\/p>\n

Every year, I make it a priority to attend at least one conference or workshop. I like to learn from different speakers and hear different perspectives. These experiences always leave us a little richer in knowledge, and they\u2019re also great opportunities for networking.<\/p>\n

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Photo taken at a wedding in September 2021.<\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

Despite everything I\u2019ve said and knowing that, if I could go back, I wouldn\u2019t have photographed that wedding alone, I\u2019m incredibly grateful to Ana and Kent for choosing me and, above all, for trusting me. They opened the doors to my career, and I\u2019m almost certain that without them, I wouldn\u2019t have started in wedding photography or be where I am today.<\/p>\n

I\u2019m also thrilled that, after their wedding, I went on to photograph their maternity session, their baby\u2019s christening, her second birthday, and most recently, another family session this year. To me, this confirms that they have no regrets about their decision.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s a huge honor to witness a family\u2019s evolution while also seeing my own growth as a photographer.<\/p>\n

This is the story of how I started photographing weddings. I hope your journey is a little smoother and more stable. But above all, I hope you truly love what you do and find genuine happiness in photographing weddings. I know I do! There\u2019s absolutely nothing else I\u2019d rather be doing.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Recentemente no Instagram, falei sobre o meu primeiro casamento. E prometi partilhar convosco a minha hist\u00f3ria sobre como comecei a fotografar casamentos, juntamente com alguns conselhos para aqueles que est\u00e3o a come\u00e7ar. A minha jornada pela fotografia de casamentos come\u00e7ou em 2017. At\u00e9 l\u00e1, n\u00e3o tinha tido ainda nenhum contacto com...<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":4381,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4378","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-weddingplanning"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ritaplacidophotography.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4378","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ritaplacidophotography.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ritaplacidophotography.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ritaplacidophotography.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ritaplacidophotography.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4378"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.ritaplacidophotography.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4378\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11685,"href":"https:\/\/www.ritaplacidophotography.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4378\/revisions\/11685"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ritaplacidophotography.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4381"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ritaplacidophotography.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4378"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ritaplacidophotography.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4378"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ritaplacidophotography.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4378"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}