1. Introduction & Overview

In October 2017, I was invited to photograph the state visit of King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands to Lisbon, Portugal. As a photographer who loves storytelling, it was an exciting chance to document a significant diplomatic event, capturing both formal ceremonies and intimate moments behind the scenes.

2. Client & Project Context

• Client: Embassy of the Netherlands (Lisbon)
• Event Type: Official State Visit
• Date: 10-12 October 2017
• Location: Lisbon, Portugal

This visit marked a diplomatic milestone between the Netherlands and Portugal, enhancing cultural and economic ties. The event involved official ceremonies, visits to historic sites, and a state banquet, all demanding thoughtful and versatile photography.

3. Photography Goals & Objectives

The client needed a photographer capable of capturing:

• Formal ceremonial moments accurately and professionally.
• Informal and candid shots reflecting genuine diplomatic interaction.
• Lisbon’s historic beauty as a backdrop to emphasize cultural exchange.

My personal goal was to tell the full story of the event, blending authenticity with visual elegance, always staying discreet yet creatively engaged.

4. My Approach & Process

I approached this assignment as a visual storyteller:

• Preparation: I scouted locations like Praça do Império, Belém Tower, and Jerónimos Monastery in advance to identify perfect vantage points.
• Technique: My experience in filmmaking guided my lens choice—wide-angle lenses for capturing grandeur, prime lenses for intimate moments, and reliance on natural lighting to retain authentic ambiance.
• Discretion: Maintaining unobtrusive positioning allowed me to capture candid moments without disrupting protocol.

5. Challenges & Solutions

• Challenge: Balancing formality and authenticity—diplomatic events can seem overly staged.
  • Solution: Focused carefully on moments immediately before and after official interactions to capture natural expressions and gestures.
• Challenge: Varied lighting conditions—from bright outdoor sunlight to dimly-lit banquet halls.
  • Solution: Adapted quickly between different camera setups, utilizing professional low-light equipment and techniques without flash to preserve the atmosphere.

6. Results & Impact

• Client Satisfaction: Images were prominently featured in official press releases, international media coverage, and embassy communications.
• Professional Recognition: The assignment enhanced my credibility as an event and diplomatic photographer, resulting in subsequent inquiries and similar prestigious projects.

7. Personal Reflections

Photographing this royal visit was incredibly rewarding, personally and professionally. It reinforced the importance of preparation, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity, and I gained deeper confidence in capturing authentic stories within structured, high-profile environments.