Pauline and Samuel came from France to get married at Quinta Nova do Hespanhol, in July, surrounded by their closest family and friends.
I was with them for more than one day. First their engagement session, then their welcome dinner, then the wedding itself. By the big day, we already knew each other, and that changes everything.
Calm, warm and full of real emotion
Their wedding was not loud or rushed. It was calm and warm, with that easy feeling you get when everyone in the room truly wants to be there.
Nothing was staged. I didn't ask them to walk up and down or kiss on cue. I let things happen and stayed close: the quiet glances, the joyful hugs, the small details that made the day theirs.
Not used to photos? That's fine
Samuel told me later they are not used to photo shoots at all. Most of my couples aren't. A few words, a little direction when it helps, and then you forget I'm there.
In his review, he wrote that the photos let them relive their wedding "as if we were there." That is exactly what I hope for, every time.
Why a welcome dinner is worth photographing
If your guests are travelling to Portugal, the night before is often the most relaxed part of the weekend. Everyone has arrived, the nerves haven't started yet, and people just enjoy each other. For Pauline and Samuel, it was the perfect way to start. You can read more in my post about why your Portugal wedding should start with a welcome dinner.
See Pauline & Samuel's full love story
Planning a wedding weekend in Portugal? Tell me about your plans. I reply within 24 hours.
