Cátia Soares

Cátia, when did you realize that photography would be more than just a hobby — that moment when you said, “this is what I want to do forever”?

Photography came into my life very early through my stepfather, whose biggest dream was to be a photographer. He was the one who passed on to me the curiosity and fascination for this art. By the age of six, I already had my first photography book in my hands. Over time, I realized it wasn’t just a childhood passion — it was a path that was part of who I am. The defining moment came when I photographed my first wedding. I felt the emotion, the responsibility, and the magic of preserving stories forever, and that day I knew — this is what I want to do for the rest of my life.

What fashion or editorial influences still inspire you and help define your photographic style?

I’ve always been drawn to fashion magazines and editorials that celebrate elegance, sophistication, and the beauty of detail. I take inspiration from that timeless aesthetic to create images with a strong visual identity that remain natural and deeply emotional.

How has your journey evolved since you started working with weddings? Was there a turning point that changed how you work?

It’s been a journey of constant evolution. At first, I simply wanted to document moments, but over time I realized I could create something more artistic and personal. The real turning point came when I began blending an editorial vision with my documentary approach. That fusion gave me creative freedom and brought me even closer to my couples.

Your style combines documentary and editorial elements beautifully. How do you define that fusion?

To me, the documentary side represents truth — those gestures and expressions that happen naturally, without staging. The editorial side allows me to explore aesthetics, light, and composition in a more intentional way. The fusion happens when I can create images that look as if they came from a magazine, yet are filled with genuine emotion.

Is there any particularly memorable experience that has marked you in this profession?

I remember being on holiday with my friends and joking that one day I’d be photographing weddings in Spain. Just a month later, I already had several weddings booked across the country. It was such a special moment, it showed me that dreams can come true much faster than we imagine when we work with dedication and passion.

Has there been any feedback from couples that touched you in a special way? Which one and why?

A bride once told me she had never felt so beautiful, that she barely recognized herself, in the best possible way, when she saw her photos. She said she never thought she could look like that. That comment really moved me, because it shows how photography can change the way people see themselves.

What motivates you to keep doing this work every day, even through challenges or long days?

What motivates me is knowing that my work will always have a lasting impact on people’s lives. The photographs I deliver aren’t just beautiful images, they are memories that will be passed down through generations. That thought gives me energy, even on the most exhausting days.

Are there any places or types of ceremonies you would love to photograph but haven’t had the chance yet?

I would love to photograph a wedding in Italy — for its breathtaking scenery, unique light, and rich culture. It would be a dream to bring my photography into such an inspiring setting.

It’s true that you deliver around 600 to 900 edited photos in an online gallery within about 45 business days. How do you maintain such high quality?

Yes, that’s true. I believe couples deserve a complete record of their day, full of variety and detail. To maintain quality, I dedicate a lot of time to curating and editing each image carefully, ensuring that every chosen photo receives the same level of attention and care. It’s an intense process, but excellence is always my priority.

What style of wedding do you most identify with?

I feel most connected to elegant weddings — where aesthetics and details are thoughtfully planned, yet emotion and genuine connection are always at the heart of everything. I love sophisticated environments that still feel authentic and full of soul.

Can you share some of your professional dreams and future projects with us?

One of my goals is to achieve international recognition and awards that reflect my dedication and artistic vision. I also dream of expanding my photography to new countries and developing personal projects that further explore the artistic side of this craft. Above all, I want to keep telling love stories with authenticity and beauty — always with the same passion that has guided me from the very beginning.