Documentary Wedding Photographer, based in Lisbon
Real moments, no poses. Capturing your story as it unfolds.
Olá!
I am Miguel, but most people call me Brilhas or Brilhante. ✨
As a documentary wedding photographer, I’m not into stiff poses or making things feel forced. I just want to capture your day exactly as it happens, with all the laughs and the perfectly imperfect way of being.
Apart from shooting weddings, I’m passionate about sports photography, theater and also portraits. It will always involve people one way or another! 😊
As a photographer, I see myself as someone who is always alert to people’s emotions and interactions, as well as the light and shadows that I can work with. It’s one of the best feeling to put everything together and create memorable photographs.
Latest Stories
What They Say
-
![lisbon-documentary-wedding-photographer-miguel-brilhante]()
Mariana + André
“The word to describe Miguel is talent. It's incredible the way he captures the moment, the emotions, the expressions... He’ll do a handstand if necessary to get the photo he wants. We hired Miguel to photograph our wedding and he was absolutely incredible. He’s everywhere at all times, and at the same time you don't even notice him! All the photographs are real, alive, beautiful! The editing is careful and the colors are really beautiful. I know he does this every day but he really made us feel unique. Thank you very much Miguel! I don't think I have a wall for so many incredible photographs 🥹😍
-
![alentejo-documentary-wedding-photographer-miguel-brilhante]()
Carolina + João
“I chose Miguel to photograph my wedding because I love his work. Miguel has his own unique aesthetic when photographing, and that was important for the images I wanted from the wedding. Besides being an incredible professional and always available, Miguel was part of the joy of my wedding and contributed even more to making it a day of happy memories. He's a photographer who adapts perfectly to the people and the style of wedding he's photographing, and I couldn't have made a better choice.”
-
![algarve-documentary-wedding-photographer-miguel-brilhante]()
Raquel + Mariana
“Miguel did an excellent job. Furthermore, he provides a huge number of photographs (+600), not only of the bride and groom but also of the guests and the party, which reveals not only his extremely professional side, but also his attention and dedication to everyone who was part of our special day! Throughout the wedding day he was with us from the very first moment, but his presence was very discreet, and for those who like natural photographs, it's perfect! Miguel was part of our day and provided us with beautiful photos that perfectly convey the feelings we experienced that day. Finally, a week after the wedding we already had access to the final gallery!! It was simply perfect and I highly recommend him ✨❤️”
-
![Documentary-wedding-photographer-quinta-da-falesia-lisbon]()
Madalena + Yaneko
“Actually, we weren't even thinking that we would value the photographic report that was done at our wedding so much…
I don't know what I can say to choose Miguel… I can only share the results…
Wait! Do you want some really cute photos and a photographer who will guide you towards some really nice shots? Well, take a look!”
-
![lisbon-documentary-wedding-photographer-quinta-da-emberiza]()
Catarina + Diogo
“Miguel was the best choice we could have made for our wedding. A special day like that should be remembered with unique photographs, and Miguel delivered brilliantly. The kindness, tranquility, and lightheartedness he brought to our day make him a great professional and, nowadays, a friend.”
QUICK FAQ
-
I’m a documentary wedding photographer. Which basically means: no weird poses, no "put your hand here," no spending an hour taking photos when you'd rather be with your guests.
Here's my approach: I'm there to document your day, not direct it. You do your thing—laugh with your friends, cry during vows, dance like nobody's watching—and I capture all of it as it happens.
I'll guide you for family photos (because someone needs to wrangle everyone) and we'll take 10-15 minutes for some couple portraits (in pretty light, I promise it won't be painful). But the rest of the time? I'm a ninja. You probably won't even notice me.
-
My full-day wedding coverage starts at €1,650. This includes up to 12 hours of photography coverage, 600-800 high resolution edited images, and your private online gallery for viewing, downloading and sharing your photos.
-
I’ll deliver 20-30 photos as a "sneak peek" within 48 hours after your wedding day, and your final gallery will be delivered within 60 days of wedding day!
-
For most weddings, I can cover everything solo—that's what I do best! But if you're having a large wedding (100+ guests), getting ready in separate locations far apart, or want simultaneous ceremony coverage (like capturing both your reaction AND your partner's as you walk down the aisle), a second shooter is worth considering. It's available as an add-on for €400, and I work with photographers I trust completely.
-
I recommend booking 6-12 months in advance, especially for popular dates (summer Saturdays). I only take 20 weddings per year to maintain quality.
-
To lock your date on my agenda, a deposit of 20% of the full amount is required and a contract must be signed. The remaining amount is paid in two equal parts: the first - 3 months before the wedding date, and the last part - in the week before the wedding day.
-
I focus purely on photography (it's what I do best!), but I work with incredible videographers and I'm happy to recommend someone who matches your style.