This wedding is exactly why I love what I do. Being a Portugal wedding photographer, especially for destination weddings, means I get to witness not only stunning backdrops – but real, unfiltered special moments that stick with you. And this day with Hayley and Johny? It had all that and more.

Hayley is British, Johny is Scottish. Together, they brought a wave of energy and heart to the city of Porto, and from the very beginning, you could feel the vibe: fun, intimate, and full of life. No big production.

No staged moments. Just connection, laughter, and the kind of joy you can’t fake. That’s what drives my photography style – natural, emotive, and honest.

The day kicked off in Porto’s old town, one of my favorite places to photograph couples. Johny and his groomsmen strolled the streets wearing traditional Scottish kilts, turning heads and drawing smiles.

We walked through the historic alleys, grabbed some beers, and just let things unfold naturally. At one point, we hopped on a rabelo boat across the Douro River—a spontaneous ride with wind in their hair, sunshine warming the moment, and drinks in hand. No posing needed. Just friends having a good time.

The ceremony took place at The Yeatman Hotel, one of Porto’s most iconic venues. Perched on the hill of Vila Nova de Gaia, it overlooks the river and the colorful rooftops of the city. The view alone is breathtaking, but the emotions on this day made it unforgettable. An intimate wedding with just the right touch of elegance – raw, emotional, and grounded in what truly matters.

Their vows were personal and heartfelt. You could feel the weight of the moment in the way they looked at each other. The late afternoon light wrapped around them as they spoke, with Porto behind and their future ahead. It was the kind of ceremony where you forget you're working because you're fully immersed in what’s happening.

As a Portugal wedding videographer and Destination Wedding photographer, moments like these are what I live for.

There’s something so beautiful in blending cultures – in this case, Scottish traditions and Portuguese charm. From the kilts to the local food and music, everything came together effortlessly.

After the ceremony, the party kicked off with energy. The reception was filled with warm laughter, great food, and nonstop music. Guests shared stories and danced like nobody was watching. The wine flowed, toasts were raised, and the dance floor never emptied—not once.

One of the most touching moments came during Hayley and Johny’s first dance. The sun had just dipped behind the city skyline, and as the fairy lights twinkled above, the two of them moved as if they were the only ones in the world. Surrounded by friends and family, it felt like time slowed down.

Later that evening, things spilled outside under the stars. Johny and his groomsmen—still in kilts—broke into a classic Scottish folk song, voices ringing out into the night. It was one of those cinematic moments I always chase as a destination wedding videographer and photographer: real, unexpected, and full of meaning.

This wedding was more than just a celebration. It was proof that you don’t need grandeur to have something to remember. What you really need is connection – and Hayley and Johny had that in spades.

Whether you’re planning a wedding in Porto, a destination elopement in Portugal, or just looking for someone to capture your story without filters or fluff – I’d love to be there. Because to me, it’s about more than a wedding video or a photo gallery. It’s about the feeling you carry long after the party ends.