Offering his services in Porto, Portugal, and destinations worldwide, wedding photographer Afonso Godinho specializes in photojournalistic style coverage that authentically captures his clients emotions on one of the most important days in their lives. He directs his clients into authentic looking poses as well, which complements the natural look of his photos. We recently caught up with Afonso to see how he got into wedding photography and learn what it takes to stick around in the industry today. Find more of Afonso’s work on his Website, Wedding Maps Profile, and Instagram profile.
Welcome to the Featured Artist Series at The Photo Argus, a place where we feature the stories and work of incredible photographers from around the world. Many of these features are from the best wedding photographers over at Wedding Maps. However, we also feature photographers in other genres as well. If you’re interested in being featured, please contact us.
What’s in Afonso’s Gear Bag?
- Sony Alpha a9 (find the a9 II here)
- Alpha a7 III
- Sony 85mm f/1.8
- Sigma 35mm f/1.4
- Sony 70-200 GM f/2.8
- Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8
- Godox V1 (Flashpoint version here)
- MagMod Modifiers
And now, the interview!
Interview with Afonso Godinho
What is your favorite camera lens and why?
I guess it would be the Sigma 35mm f1.4 because with this lens I can quickly capture portraits, groups and important moments in weddings.
How long have you been a photographer? What got you started?
I have been a photographer for 8 years and it actually started with dabbling in fashion photography for small stores, which eventually translated into becoming a second shooter at weddings, and then on to where I am now as a main photographer.
How did you establish and define your shooting and editing style?
I was inspired by many photographers and I decided in a hybrid shooting style between reporting style and directing. As for my editing style, I really love light and airy!
How do you differentiate yourself from the photographer down the street?
I know that photos can be intimidating for couples, so I really put them at ease in the couples session and weddings. Every time I finish a photo session and the couples tell me that they had fun even though they don’t enjoy taking photos, this is a win for me. So, I guess that this is a thing to differentiate.
What is the best part about being a photographer?
Being part of a couple’s day and knowing that your photos are going to mean something to them.
What is the most challenging part of being a photographer?
Every wedding is different, so I guess that you really have to be prepared to have bad lighting and bad spaces. It’s part of the work, I guess.
Who are some of your favorite photographers?
The first photographer who inspired me was Cliff Mautner, whose work has a dark and dreamy vibe. I felt that his teaching in lighting and soft directing was very useful. After this, I actually found Pye Jirsa, which is my all-time favorite now because of how he teaches, as well as his work.
What are your sources of photography inspiration?
I really like to see other photographers work and maybe try them and try to convert each idea into my own style.
What do you think your keys to success are in this industry?
Be persistent, and as taught by Cliff Mautner, it may be your 1,000th wedding to photograph, but it’s (likely) your couple’s first, so give it all you’ve got!
More Info
Find more of Afonso’s work on his Website, Wedding Maps Profile, and Instagram profile.
