PHOTOGRAPHER | Atelier Memória

Award-winning photographer Maria Abranches from Atelier Memória is passionate about capturing memories in digital and 35mm film formats with an editorial touch, and divides her life between weddings and personal projects. With a documentary and cinematic approach, she allows moments to unfold naturally, making her couples feel like she is a friend among their guests. Atelier Memória is based in Lisbon, Portugal and loves to travel worldwide.

Tell us about your business!

I’m Maria, the creative mind behind Atelier Memória. I’m a Portuguese photographer who grew up surrounded by the visual and performing arts, which nurtured my passion for storytelling. Memories mean the world to me, because they become moments to return to, stories that live on — that’s why I named my studio Atelier Memória.

Over the years, my documentary work has been recognized with awards like the World Press Photo Award and featured in major publications such as The Guardian and Le Monde.

What would you like couples to know about you?

With a background in architecture and a deep love for the arts, I bring a poetic and thoughtful eye to your wedding day. I work gently, always aiming to make you feel like I’m a friend among your guests, capturing the most meaningful memories thoughtfully and artfully.

Where are you based?

I’m based in Lisbon, Portugal, but I often travel across Europe and beyond to document weddings and pursue personal projects in places that are meaningful to my couples and to me. Some examples include Paris, London, Rome, Milan, Venice, Barcelona, Costa Brava, Mallorca, Menorca, Tenerife, Arles, New York, Mexico City, Rio de Janeiro… and the list goes on.

Do you travel for weddings?

I’m always ready to pack my camera and film rolls into my suitcase — I simply can’t stay in one place for too long. Throughout the year, you’ll often find me traveling across Europe — to Italy, France, Spain, or beyond — and sometimes even as far as Mexico City or Brazil, capturing stories in places that mean something to my couples or to me. I speak Portuguese and English fluently, and I also know some Spanish, French, and Italian, which helps me connect wherever I go.

How would you describe your style?

My photography is inspired by the timelessness of analog photography, blending a documentary style with an editorial aesthetic. I focus on light, composition, and emotion, to create poetic and cinematic memories that feel both intimate and lasting. I strive to reflect your personalities, guiding you gently and capturing your day naturally, without forced poses.

What is your most memorable career moment?

My most memorable career moment was receiving a World Press Photo award this year for my project "MARIA," which explores themes of gender inequality, racism, and colonialism.

What inspires you?

Before pursuing my true passion for photography, I studied and worked as an architect — a discipline that continues to influence my work, enriching it with elements of art, cinema, literature, poetry, music, architecture, fashion, and design. These constant influences inspire me to push myself further and expand my creative boundaries.

How would you describe your working style?

Discreet yet present, I observe more than I direct. Most of the day, you won’t even notice I’m there. Except during the getting ready and the couple’s shoot, when I’ll offer some tips to help you feel at ease.

Do you shoot digitally, on film or both?

While I primarily shoot digital for faster turnaround and efficiency, I absolutely love 35mm film! I always recommend my couples include film in their package.

Do you have custom packages according to individual needs?

Yes, every couple is different, so I tailor each experience to their vision, venue, and timeline. Whether they’re planning an all-day celebration or an intimate elopement, we’ll create something that truly reflects who they are.

What is a favourite product or service that you offer and why?

My couples are particularly drawn to my film photography, which brings a nostalgic and artistic quality that digital can’t quite match — especially the colors, which I strive to replicate when editing my digital photographs. It’s magical!

Where would you love to travel to for work?

I would love for my next wedding to be in Sicily. I’ve always been drawn to the Mediterranean coast, and I think it’s because of some of my favorite films from the Nouvelle Vague, like Godard and Truffaut, as well as Italian Neorealism, like Fellini, that I’m captivated by its light, sceneries, and atmosphere.

I would also love to work in places like Japan, Los Angeles and New Mexico.

Who is your dream client?

My ideal clients are passionate, drawn to art, cinema, design and beauty. They care more about genuine memories than perfection, and embrace living fully in the present. Above all, they trust the creative process and want their story told with depth and authenticity.

What is your advice to couples getting married?

Be present. Let go of perfection and truly live your day.

Do it your way. Traditions are beautiful, but only if they feel right for you.

Choose what lasts. Invest in people and memories that will still matter years from now.

Atelier Memória

Website: ateliermemoria.pt

Instagram: @atelier.memoria