leilaferreiraphotography.com

Wedding Budget Estimate

Leila Ferreira — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 19:07:30 +0000

Before you dive into planning the wedding of your dreams, let’s talk about something foundational: your budget.

Start by sitting down with your partner—coffee in hand, maybe a playlist in the background—and get clear on what feels realistic and comfortable for both of you. Look at your current savings, chat about how much you can set aside during your engagement, and if it feels right, gently open the conversation with your families to see if they’re planning to contribute.

Once you’ve got a clear picture of your resources, you’ll want to start shaping your wedding budget around what matters most to you both. To make things simple, here’s a breakdown of the ten core categories couples typically plan for:

Venue & Catering – 40%
This is often your biggest investment and where most of your guests will feel the magic of the day.
Photography & Videography – 15%
Because when it’s all said and done, the photos and films are what bring you back to the feelings.
Music & Entertainment – 10%
Think of this as the heartbeat of your celebration—from your ceremony to your dance floor.
Flowers – 10%
Lush florals or simple stems, they set the tone and breathe beauty into every space.
Décor – 10%
From candles to table settings, the details help tell your story.
Attire & Beauty – 5%
This includes the dress, suit, hair, makeup—everything that helps you feel your most radiant.
Favors & Gifts – 2%
A thoughtful thank you to your guests and wedding party.
Transportation – 3%
Whether it’s a vintage car or a guest shuttle, make sure everyone arrives in style (and on time!).
Stationery – 3%
From your save-the-dates to your day-of signage, this is where your vision first comes to life.
Cake – 2%
Sweet and symbolic—your cake is a delicious moment all its own.

Remember, this is just a starting point. You’ll want to shift things around based on your priorities. Maybe photography is non-negotiable for you (hi, I totally get that!), or maybe you’re dreaming of an intimate dinner party with incredible food. Your wedding should reflect you—beautifully, meaningfully, and intentionally.

go back to weddings page

Top Places to shoot in Lisbon

Leila Ferreira — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 16:44:56 +0000

Top 7 Places to shoot in Lisbon

UPDATED Nov, 4th, 2025 Table of Contents

Why Lisbon & Ericeira?

Lisbon and Ericeira are filled with breathtaking scenery, golden light, and charming backdrops—perfect for capturing real emotions and unscripted moments. Whether you’re planning an engagement session, a wedding shoot, or a couples’ photoshoot, here are the best locations to create something truly special.

These locations aren’t just scenic—they’re full of soul, history, and romance. Whether you’re planning a surprise proposal, engagement session, or just a beautiful couple’s shoot, Lisbon and Ericeira offer the perfect mix of elegance, adventure, and authenticity.

Let’s capture your story in a way that feels real, effortless, and beautifully you.

Alfama – The Soul of Lisbon

Wander through Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, where colorful facades, intricate azulejo tiles, and steep cobblestone streets set the scene for warm, intimate moments. Golden light streams through the alleys, making every frame glow with romance.

Miradouros – The Dreamy Overlooks

Lisbon’s scenic viewpoints offer stunning cityscapes and golden sunsets. Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro da Senhora do Monte are perfect for dreamy, elevated shots where the city becomes your backdrop.

Praça do Comércio – Elegant & Iconic

This grand riverside square is ideal for couples who love a sophisticated, timeless aesthetic. The soft tones of the historic architecture blend beautifully with the shimmering Tagus River.

Belém – Classic Portugal Vibes

From the majestic Belém Tower to the intricate Jerónimos Monastery, this area offers iconic Portuguese backdrops with a regal yet relaxed atmosphere.

Sintra – A Fairytale Escape

Not far from Lisbon, Sintra feels like stepping into a storybook. With misty forests, enchanted palaces, and dreamy gardens, it’s the ultimate setting for a romantic, whimsical session.

Ericeira – A Coastal Paradise

A charming fishing town just north of Lisbon, Ericeira is a blend of dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and authentic Portuguese charm. Whether you want waves crashing against the rocks or a relaxed walk through whitewashed streets, Ericeira offers an effortlessly beautiful setting for your shoot

Let´s book your shoot!

Book now

First Look: Do or Don´t?

Leila Ferreira — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 10:21:07 +0000

First look: Do or Don´t?

A moment just for you

Your wedding day will be filled with excitement, emotions, and a whirlwind of unforgettable moments. But before the ceremony, before the vows, before all eyes are on you—there’s a chance to pause, breathe, and soak in the day together.

That’s the magic of the First Look.

What is a First Look?

A First Look is a private, intimate moment between you and your partner before the ceremony. Away from the crowd, it’s just the two of you, seeing each other for the first time in all your wedding-day glow. It’s raw, emotional, and beautifully unscripted.

Why Consider a First Look?

A Private Moment Together

Your wedding day can be fast-paced, and a First Look gives you a moment to slow down and connect before everything begins. It’s a chance to share happy tears, deep breaths, and words you may not get a chance to say later.

More Time for Photos

With a First Look, you get more portraits together without the pressure of rushing between the ceremony and reception. This means more stunning, relaxed images while you’re at your freshest.

Eases Nerves

Feeling the pre-ceremony jitters? Seeing your person before the aisle can bring a sense of calm and reassurance—like taking a deep breath together before stepping into forever.

Enjoy More of Your Day

By taking portraits beforehand, you get to spend more time celebrating with your guests instead of disappearing for photos right after the ceremony. More laughter, more mingling, more memories.

Still Undecided?

A First Look isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay!

Whether you choose to have one or wait for the aisle moment, what matters most is doing what feels right for you. If you’re unsure, let’s chat!

I’d love to help you figure out what works best for your vision.

know more

Wedding Tips

Leila Ferreira — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 21:41:37 +0000

Wedding Tips

A brief introdution

But is it possible to have both? Stunning photography and a relaxed, fun-filled day—without feeling like you’re stuck in a photoshoot?

Absolutely.

I know exactly what you’re dreaming of for your wedding day—an unforgettable celebration filled with love, joy, and zero stress. And, of course, breathtaking wedding photos that stand the test of time, allowing you to relive those incredible moments again and again.

Stick to Your Timeline – But Leave Room for Magic

Having a well-planned timeline is key to a smooth, stress-free wedding day. Share it with your photographer in advance so everyone is on the same page and fully prepared.

It’s always a good idea to build in some extra time between transitions—whether it’s moving from the ceremony to the reception or switching locations—just in case things run a little behind (which they often do!).

Talk through your shot list with your photographer and schedule dedicated time for couple’s portraits, wedding party photos, family group shots, and any special moments you want captured. A little planning goes a long way in making sure your day flows beautifully, without feeling rushed.

CREATE A LIST OF photos

To keep your family portraits smooth and stress-free, share a list of names with your photographer at least a week before your wedding. Even just first names will help ensure everyone you want in the photos is included.

Also, be sure to remind close family members to stay at the ceremony site for portraits. It’s surprisingly common for loved ones—even grandparents!—to wander off, not realizing they’re needed. A quick heads-up before the big day makes gathering everyone so much easier, giving you more time to enjoy the moment.

Gather items for DETAIL SHOTS

The rings, bouquets, wedding invitations, jewelry, boutonnieres, shoes, and cufflinks—these little details are part of your love story and deserve their moment, too! To make things seamless, assign a wedding party member or trusted friend to gather these items and have them ready for your photographer.

But don’t stop there! If you have personal keepsakes—love letters, meaningful gifts, travel souvenirs—bring them along. These sentimental touches make your detail photos even more special, telling a story that’s uniquely yours. Think beyond the expected and let your details reflect your journey together!

Create A SHOT LIST with your photographer

You’ve hired your dream photographer, and they’ll be there to capture every beautiful moment. But to make sure nothing gets missed, it’s a great idea to collaborate on a shot list ahead of time.

From meaningful details to the venue setup to those romantic couple portraits, every photo helps tell the full story of your day. Your photographer will guide you in creating a list that covers all the must-have shots while allowing space for those spontaneous, magical moments. Planning ahead ensures you can relax and enjoy your wedding, knowing your memories are in good hands!

Top 10 Wedding Budget Tips

Leila Ferreira — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 09:08:59 +0000

Top 10 Wedding Budgeting Tips

10 Smart Wedding Budgeting Tips for a Stress-Free Celebration

Planning your wedding should be exciting—not overwhelming. A well-thought-out budget will help you prioritize what truly matters, avoid unnecessary stress, and create the wedding of your dreams without financial regrets. Here are 10 practical tips to keep your budget in check while still making your big day unforgettable.

1- Start Early

The sooner you begin budgeting, the better! Giving yourself plenty of time allows you to save, compare options, and make thoughtful decisions rather than last-minute, costly ones.

2-Define Your Total Budget

Sit down with your partner (and any family members who may be contributing) to determine a realistic budget. Consider your savings, potential contributions, and any other financial sources to set a clear spending limit.

3 – Set Priorities

What matters most to you? Is it the photography, the venue, or an unforgettable menu? Decide on your top priorities and allocate more of your budget toward those elements, ensuring they align with your vision.

4- Research Costs

Before making commitments, take time to research wedding costs in your area. Get multiple quotes from vendors, check online resources, and talk to married friends to understand what’s reasonable for your dream wedding.

5-Use a Budgeting Spreadsheet

Organization is key! Keep track of your estimated costs versus actual expenses in a spreadsheet. This helps you stay accountable and avoid unexpected surprises.

6 – Be Realistic

It’s easy to get carried away with Pinterest-worthy ideas, but staying within your means is crucial. Don’t feel pressured to keep up with trends or expectations—your wedding should reflect you, not a social media highlight reel.

7- Plan for the Unexpected

Weddings often come with hidden expenses. Set aside 5-10% of your budget as a contingency fund to cover last-minute costs. You’ll thank yourself later!

8-Track Your Spending

Regularly check in on your budget and update your spreadsheet to ensure you’re staying on course. Small expenses can add up quickly, so keeping tabs on them is essential.

9 – Look for Ways to Save

Get creative! Renting décor, buying digital invitations, opting for an off-season wedding date, or even DIYing some elements can make a significant difference in your final costs.

10- Keep Communication Open

Talk openly with your partner and any family members contributing to your wedding. Financial clarity will prevent misunderstandings and help everyone feel comfortable with the decisions being made.

Budget Estimate

Before diving into any decisions, it’s essential to pinpoint exactly how much you are comfortable spending on your big day. Sit down with your partner and take a thorough look at your savings, considering how much you can realistically set aside during your engagement Discuss with both sets of parents if they are willing to contribute to the wedding.

Once you’ve tallied up your resources, it’s time to map out your budget using our wedding cost list, which outlines the ten primary planning categories.

While our initial estimates provide a helpful starting point, you’ll likely need to customize these allocations based on your specific priorities and preferences.

Venue and Catering: 40% of your budget
Photography and Videography: 15% of your budget
Music/Entertainment: 10% of your budget
Flowers: 10% of your budget
Décor: 10% of your budget
Wedding Attire and Beauty: 5% of your budget
Favors and Gifts: 2% of your budget
Transportation: 3% of your budget
Stationery: 3% of your budget
Cake: 2% of your budget

Romantic Lisbon couple session

Leila Ferreira — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 09:25:56 +0000

There is something incredibly special about exploring Lisbon with people who truly want to experience the city, not just visit it. Sonia and Brian traveled from New York looking for exactly that: beautiful architecture, authentic Portuguese charm, and unforgettable food experiences woven into their time together. SONIA & BRIAN

Their couple session felt less like a photoshoot and more like an afternoon date wandering through some of Lisbon’s most iconic neighborhoods. From the elegant streets of Chiado to the colorful corners of Bairro Alto and the timeless charm of Bica, every location reflected the romantic and vibrant energy they were hoping to find in Portugal.

Sonia wore a stunning red dress that brought such a beautiful contrast against Lisbon’s soft neutral tones, historic façades, and iconic yellow trams. Together, they moved through the city naturally, laughing, holding hands, stopping for coffee and pastries, and simply enjoying each other in the middle of Lisbon’s everyday magic.

One of my favorite things about photographing couples in Lisbon is how effortlessly the city creates variety in a session. Within a short walk, we captured classic Portuguese tiles, historic viewpoints overlooking the city, charming cafés, narrow cobblestone streets, and the famous trams that make Lisbon so recognizable around the world!

As the evening light softened over the city, we paused at one of Lisbon’s scenic viewpoints where Sonia and Brian shared a quiet moment overlooking the rooftops and winding streets below. Those slower moments always become some of the most meaningful photographs because they feel genuine, relaxed, and completely unscripted.

To finish the session, we embraced one of their favorite parts of traveling: food. We stopped for coffee and pastel de nata, allowing them to slow down, connect, and enjoy the experience exactly as they would on any real date night in Lisbon. Those candid moments often tell the story best.

Sessions like this are a reminder that your photos do not need to feel overly posed or complicated. Sometimes the most beautiful images come from simply walking through a city you love with the person you love most.

If you are visiting Portugal and dreaming about a romantic couple session in Lisbon, I would love to help you create photographs that feel natural, timeless, and true to your story.

Loving these images?

Hello, I’m Leila Ferreira, Lisbon Photographer and i would love to shoot you in the streets of Lisbon! If you enjoy my work on this blog, let’s work together. Click below to see our collections or contact us directly

GET IN TOUCH