When a couple gets engaged and committed to one another it makes the parents really excited, happy or at least interested and curious depending on the level of interaction they have with each other. After all they raised their respective side of the couple and for me, the parents photos are up there with the couple on the top level of importance for a wedding day.

Picking the right moments:

It’s imperative for me as a wedding photographer to have the sensibility to click the most genuine moments of the parents interacting with their son or daughter.

They are taken by joy, happiness, and proudness. It’s really special for me to photograph the bride with her mom, dad and also the groom and his parents.

Where to start:

I like to start with the parents in the room where the bride and/or groom are getting ready. It’s a moment that it’s not formal, very casual but full of emotions and happiness. I usually ask the mother of the bride to help her with the finishing touches and that gives me a lot of great meaningful moments of the two of them.

The Formal shots:

The formal shots usually happen right after the ceremony. It’s when the whole family is gathered together to get that big shot involving both families.

The most popular combination of shots:
The immediately family
Grandparents
Siblings
Cousins
Whole Family

I truly love my job.

Documenting a wedding day is something that I don’t take lightly. A lot of times it’s my client’s first big project together. Hopefully, the photos will be enjoyed and cherished in the family for generations to come. A family heirloom. So telling a story of a couple on their wedding day with justice and care is a must. 

I photographed more than 500 brides and I can’t stress enough how important it is to hire a professional photographer. A lot of times the wedding day is when he will look his best because of the moment he is in, he is glowing and radiant with happiness, It’s the photographer’s duty to make him look the best. 

Getting married in Porto, Portugal? For more info or to book your free consultation just reach out to me here.

See more of my work go to: emilioazevedophotography.com

For Porto Wedding Photography

For Porto Destination Wedding Photographer

About Porto Wedding photography  

Lisbon Event Planner:
Fernanda.events 
Somethingnew.pt
Madeindreams.pt

Porto Event Planner:
Portoforweddings.com

Portugal Wedding Venues:

Evolutee Hotel Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort

Quinta Maria Neta

Montebello Eventos

Exe Hotel Vila D’Óbidos

Quinta da Torre

Challet Fonte Nova

Solar Cerca do Mosteiro

Quinta do Alferes de Crasto

Quinta da Pacheca

The Fox House

Six Senses

Casa das Tílias

Quinta de Oleiros

Forte da Cruz

Villa Tamariz

Quinta de Covela

Quinta Cerrado de Portela

Arriba by the Sea

Quinta dos Machados

Hotel Casa Palmela

Quinta de Pousada

Quinta da Conceição

The Astoria

Parador Casa da Ínsua

Quinta de Catralvos

The Lake House

Estufa Fria

Casa de Reguengos

Palácio Conde d’Óbidos

Quinta do Casal Novo

Our Quinta

Casa dos Arcos

Torre Bella

Quinta de Segade

Quinta da Eira

The wedding rings, what to say about them? They are the sole item on a wedding day that seals the deal as they say! The ring symbolizes two becoming one with a band with no beginning nor end. It’s this perfect circular band made of precious metal. Sometimes couples like to write some love promises and declarations of love for one another inside the rings.

The wedding ceremony needs the wedding rings to be completed. The way couples seal their promise of marriage is by exchanging rings and then a kiss.

Wedding rings 

and wedding bands are the same: a ring given at the wedding ceremony that symbolizes the marriage. Some people call it a “wedding ring” while others say “wedding band.” The two terms are interchangeable. Wedding bands are worn by both men and women for as long as their wedding last.

Is very common to see widows wearing two wedding rings.

As a wedding photographer, I always make sure to get some great shots of the rings, after all, they are the star of the day along with the bride and groom. First I like to get a detailed shot showcasing the rings in the best light possible.

Usually, I do that when I first arrive at the groom’s room. Most of the time, the rings stay with the best man until he is asked to handle them to the groom during the ceremony.

It’s a great moment when he is receiving the rings from his best man to put on the finger of his bride.

Incorporate Your Personal Style In The Ring

Think about the style of ring you like when shopping for a wedding ring. Do you prefer a ring that’s white or gold? Do you like a particular style of a diamond? What is your style? More contemporary, trendy, classic, modern? Try to think about what your personal style is. “Choose something that represents you because these pieces truly become a part of you, and commonly become heirlooms that are cherished and passed down to generations to come.

I truly love my job.

Documenting a wedding day is something that I don’t take lightly. A lot of times it’s my client’s first big project together. Hopefully, the photos will be enjoyed and cherished in the family for generations to come. A family heirloom. So telling a story of a couple on their wedding day with justice and care is a must. 

I photographed more than 500 brides and I can’t stress enough how important it is to hire a professional photographer. A lot of times the wedding day is when he will look his best because of the moment he is in, he is glowing and radiant with happiness, It’s the photographer’s duty to make him look the best. 

Getting married in Porto, Portugal? For more info or to book your free consultation just reach out to me here.

See more of my work go to: emilioazevedophotography.com

For Porto Wedding Photography

For Porto Destination Wedding Photographer

About Porto Wedding photography  

Lisbon Event Planner:
Fernanda.events 
Somethingnew.pt
Madeindreams.pt

Porto Event Planner:
Portoforweddings.com

Portugal Wedding Venues:

Evolutee Hotel Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort

Quinta Maria Neta

Montebello Eventos

Exe Hotel Vila D’Óbidos

Quinta da Torre

Challet Fonte Nova

Solar Cerca do Mosteiro

Quinta do Alferes de Crasto

Quinta da Pacheca

The Fox House

Six Senses

Casa das Tílias

Quinta de Oleiros

Forte da Cruz

Villa Tamariz

Quinta de Covela

Quinta Cerrado de Portela

Arriba by the Sea

Quinta dos Machados

Hotel Casa Palmela

Quinta de Pousada

Quinta da Conceição

The Astoria

Parador Casa da Ínsua

Quinta de Catralvos

The Lake House

Estufa Fria

Casa de Reguengos

Palácio Conde d’Óbidos

Quinta do Casal Novo

Our Quinta

Casa dos Arcos

Torre Bella

Quinta de Segade

Quinta da Eira

Here comes the guy! Porto Wedding Photographer

My take on groom portraits is a very straightforward and easy-going one. I believe in most cases the groom and his groom’s men are not fully keen on how complex their photos can be and I think they just want to have a good time and get some shots done.

With that in mind, I try to make it very easy and pleasant for the guys. I look to connect on a personal level, with some jokes and some small talk. Just to make them feel relaxed and willing to be working with me.

Complementing their look is always a good way to start a portrait session. Saying he really looks great and like a million dollars. Also, congratulate him and wish him all the best in their new life chapter together.

I do pay attention to the groom’s personality and what makes him tick. After all, it’s his big day too and I need to be all in and be there for him. Make it special and meaningful for the groom.

Poses

I like to get poses showing some details like ties, cufflinks, and any other unique details he might have for the wedding day.

The groom and the groom’s men usually are in a celebratory mood and I’m paying attention to any toast that may occur.

I also take the majority of groomsmen photos pre-ceremony—which only takes about 20 to 25 minutes. This includes group and individual photos with each groomsman and the groom. I also capture creative group shots, such as congratulatory poses (where the groomsmen give kudos to the groom) and walking shots with groomsmen in formation.

It can be unpredictable

It’s always a fun time with the guys and is also unpredictable in many cases. This cheers above happened totally unexpectedly and on the spur of the moment. My job is to be ready to fire at all times.

Sometimes you plan ahead but the best shots happened spontaneously and in the moment. I love when I can tell a story, document, what is actually happens, and just need to direct a bit in case there is not much going on.

I do prepare and I do direct the groom but always respecting the moment and going along with the flow to not only get a great shot but to also portray his personality and tell a story.

One of the sweetest groom photos is the groomsmen helping the groom tie his tie or bow tie. While it may be posed, the groomsmen never look at the camera for this one. This is a special moment and great for photos.

Fun shots with all the guys standing, on power positions are also great shots to have. Is that moment they are all dressed up, feeling great and ready for the day.

It’s also a great idea to photograph the guys during the reception where everyone is more relaxed with no more pressure and no timeline to follow. You then can really see the guy’s true personality and sometimes is when they shine the most. You can get creative with light and setup.

I truly love my job. Documenting a wedding day is something that I don’t take lightly. A lot of times it’s my client’s first big project together. Hopefully, the photos will be enjoyed and cherished in the family for generations to come. A family heirloom. So telling a story of a couple on their wedding day with justice and care is a must. 

I photographed more than 500 brides and I can’t stress enough how important it is to hire a professional photographer. A lot of times the wedding day is when he will look his best because of the moment he is in, he is glowing and radiant with happiness, It’s the photographer’s duty to make him look the best. 

Getting married in Porto, Portugal? For more info or to book your free consultation just reach out to me here.

See more of my work go to: emilioazevedophotography.com

For Porto Wedding Photography

For Porto Destination Wedding Photographer

About Porto Wedding photography  

Lisbon Event Planner:
Fernanda.events 
Somethingnew.pt
Madeindreams.pt

Porto Event Planner:
Portoforweddings.com

Portugal Wedding Venues:

Evolutee Hotel Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort

Quinta Maria Neta

Montebello Eventos

Exe Hotel Vila D’Óbidos

Quinta da Torre

Challet Fonte Nova

Solar Cerca do Mosteiro

Quinta do Alferes de Crasto

Quinta da Pacheca

The Fox House

Six Senses

Casa das Tílias

Quinta de Oleiros

Forte da Cruz

Villa Tamariz

Quinta de Covela

Quinta Cerrado de Portela

Arriba by the Sea

Quinta dos Machados

Hotel Casa Palmela

Quinta de Pousada

Quinta da Conceição

The Astoria

Parador Casa da Ínsua

Quinta de Catralvos

The Lake House

Estufa Fria

Casa de Reguengos

Palácio Conde d’Óbidos

Quinta do Casal Novo

Our Quinta

Casa dos Arcos

Torre Bella

Quinta de Segade

Quinta da Eira

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN HOSTING A DESTINATION WEDDING IN PORTUGAL

Portugal is an easy destination to choose when it comes to your big day! This country is surrounded by natural beauty, history, gorgeous beaches, mountains, amazing cuisine, incredible wedding venues, sunny weather, friendly people, and so on. But if you are set on tying the knot in Portugal you should know how to make it official.

It can be a little slow process to get everything going due some bureaucracy but it is totally worth it.

You will need to meet a few requirements.

• Both parties should be at least 18 years old (or 16, provided they have written consent from the parents).
• Same-sex weddings and gay marriages also follow the same restrictions.
• You don’t need a legal residency to get married in Portugal.
• You may only be married in Portugal according to Portuguese law, and in the presence of a Registrar.
• You may not be married at an embassy or consulate by a consular from your country, nor under the law of your own country.
• Foreign citizens do not acquire Portuguese nationality when marrying a Portuguese citizen. However, they may apply for Portuguese citizenship after three years of marriage.
• You have two options here, either a Civil or Catholic wedding. Both are legally recognised and legally binding. Religious ceremonies for all other churches and faiths must be preceded by a civil ceremony and the marriage certificate should be made available.
• The ceremony, Civil or Catholic, will be conducted in Portuguese and if you choose to marry at a church, you should make arrangements in advance with the local priest. It’s not a legal requirement to have a translator, but if neither of you speak Portuguese, you can arrange for an interpreter to be present throughout the ceremony.

PORTUGUESE MARRIAGE LICENSE

• A couple who decides to get married in Portugal needs to acquire a marriage license from the Civil Registry Office (Conservatória do Registo Civil). This application must be made whether you are applying for a civil or Catholic wedding. Once the license is granted, a date may be booked for the civil wedding or plans can be made with the chosen church. 
• It usually takes approximately one month for the Portuguese authorities to process this request. You can apply in person or by assigning a representative with power of attorney. In the case of a Catholic marriage, the priest may also initiate the process.
• The process must be started at least 6 weeks before the expected date of marriage and the marriage must take place within 6 months from the date of its authorization.
• When applying for your marriage license you must indicate which type of wedding you want (civil, religious), the matrimonial regime of your choice, the day, time, and location of your wedding ceremony.
• There are four kinds of marital regimes available in Portugal. The default regime is marriage in a community of property and it costs €100. Pre-nuptial agreements can also be drawn up to alter this in any way and if you choose to have this prepared by the Civil Registry Office the cost is €160. To register a prenuptial agreement, when this has not been prepared in the Civil Registry Office, for example in a notary office, the cost is €30.
• The application fee is €120 if the marriage is being celebrated in the registry office. This amount includes the application for the license and the registration carried out after the marriage.
• If you opt to get married on a Saturday, Sunday, or public holiday, after office hours or at a location other than the Civil Registry Office, the cost will be €200. If the marriage is not celebrated at the Civil Registry Office, you must ensure transportation or pay for the traveling costs of the Registrar.
• After the wedding, an international wedding certificate will be issued, which you can use to register the wedding in your country of residence. Some countries require a national certificate with an apostille that then has to be translated into your country.

Getting married in Portugal: step by step

To get married in Portugal, you will first need to apply for a marriage license. You should do this at least six weeks before your chosen wedding date. Once you have it, you must get married within the next six months. Legal requirements aside, planning a wedding in Portugal is fairly similar to other Western countries. 

Here is a step-by-step guide:

• 1 year out: Set up a budget and guest list, and find a place for the ceremony. If marrying in the church, request a meeting with the priest to ensure the church is free on that date.
• 10 months out: Book a venue and start looking for suppliers to hire, including caterers, florists, entertainment, and photographers. 
• 8 months out: Create a wedding website, send out save the dates, and go dress-hunting.
• 6 months out: Collect all the documents to apply for the marriage license and begin your honeymoon search.
• 4 months out: Shop for wedding rings, smaller decorative items, and guest favors. 
• 3 months out: Send out the invitations, book hair and makeup trials, and organize transport for your big day.
• 2 months out: Finalize the catering, music, and entertainment.
• 1 month out: Arrange the final guest list, and create a floor plan or seating chart. 
• 2 weeks out: Send a shortlist to your photographer and confirm an on-the-day run sheet.
• 1 week out: Pick up your wedding outfit and start packing for your honeymoon (if you’re leaving straight away).

Necessary paperwork and documentation

You will need to submit some paperwork before you can legalize your wedding in Portugal. Both parties need to provide the following documents:

• Citizen card, passport, or residence permit
• A certified copy of your birth certificate issued within the last six months. If it is in a foreign language, it has to include a Portuguese translation.
• The affidavit of eligibility to marry, if your home country issues this kind of certificate; again, this must be translated into Portuguese.
• A baptismal certificate for weddings in the Roman Catholic Church.
• A prenuptial agreement certificate prepared at a notary office, in case you don’t want the standard matrimonial regime.
• If you were married before, you need to show a marriage certificate from that union. You will also need a divorce decree or a death certificate to prove its dissolution.
• If any of the parties is over 16 but under 18, they need written consent from their legal guardians.

Note: Remember to allow enough time to get the necessary documents translated into Portuguese. This is where a translation service can really help. Thankfully, there are a number of online platforms you can use to find the right translator for you. These include:

• Lingoking
• Translated
• Gengo

Getting married in Porto, Portugal? For more info or to book your free consultation just reach out to me here.

See more of my work go to: emilioazevedophotography.com

For Porto Wedding Photography

For Porto Destination Wedding Photographer

About Porto Wedding photography  

Lisbon Event Planner:
Fernanda.events 
Somethingnew.pt
Madeindreams.pt

Porto Event Planner:
Portoforweddings.com

Portugal Wedding Venues:

Evolutee Hotel Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort

Quinta Maria Neta

Montebello Eventos

Exe Hotel Vila D’Óbidos

Quinta da Torre

Challet Fonte Nova

Solar Cerca do Mosteiro

Quinta do Alferes de Crasto

Quinta da Pacheca

The Fox House

Six Senses

Casa das Tílias

Quinta de Oleiros

Forte da Cruz

Villa Tamariz

Quinta de Covela

Quinta Cerrado de Portela

Arriba by the Sea

Quinta dos Machados

Hotel Casa Palmela

Quinta de Pousada

Quinta da Conceição

The Astoria

Parador Casa da Ínsua

Quinta de Catralvos

The Lake House

Estufa Fria

Casa de Reguengos

Palácio Conde d’Óbidos

Quinta do Casal Novo

Our Quinta

Casa dos Arcos

Torre Bella

Quinta de Segade

Quinta da Eira