When Shelley and Portugal, a husband-and-wife photography team, approached me to design their website, their vision was clear: they wanted a digital presence that reflected their unique blend of gritty, raw, and film-inspired photography. Their style is a harmonious fusion of their individual strengths—Portugal’s gritty, real, and raw approach paired with Shelley’s clean, beautiful perspective. Together, they create images that are both timeless and deeply connected to their clients’ stories.
Aesthetic Direction: Unposed, Genuine, and Story-Driven
Shelley and Portugal’s photography is inspired by the grainy, timeless aesthetic of film, which played a central role in the website design. The site needed to convey this sense of authenticity and emotional depth, using a minimalist layout that allows their imagery to take center stage. The design emphasizes unposed, candid moments that tell a story, aligning with their desire to attract clients who appreciate the honest and edgy style they bring to their work.
Website Identity: Less Is More
For Shelley and Portugal, simplicity is key. They are strong believers in the mantra “less is more” and wanted their website to reflect this philosophy. The design is clean, easy to navigate, and visually engaging, ensuring that potential clients can quickly find answers to their questions while immersing themselves in the photo stories displayed throughout the site. The goal was to create a space that feels both inviting and professional, allowing clients to envision their own wedding day through the lens of Shelley and Portugal’s distinctive style.
Standing Out in a Crowded Market
What sets Shelley and Portugal apart is not just their photography style, but also the way they connect with their clients. They’ve worked hard to establish a workflow that builds trust and empowers their couples from the very beginning. Their responsiveness and ability to anticipate client needs have earned them praise, with clients often commenting on how Shelley and Portugal made their wedding day better just by being there. This unique blend of exceptional customer service and artistic skill is highlighted on the website, making it clear that they offer more than just beautiful photos—they offer a memorable and supportive experience.
