Photographing in a Castle: A Dream Come True

Despite the bureaucracy that usually surrounds photography in castles—places many consider inaccessible—I was surprisingly granted access to the Schloss Hotel Hugenpoet, located in Essen, near Düsseldorf. It was an enchantingly perfect day, where the setting enhanced every detail of the editorial, as if everything had been destined to come together.

Partnerships That Elevate a Project

One of the highlights of this work was the collaboration with House of Zarif, a bridal boutique with a strong presence in several European cities and a recently opened store in Düsseldorf. This partnership was essential in giving the project the necessary momentum. When creating an editorial, every element must harmonize with the others—it’s not just about choosing a breathtaking location or a beautiful dress; the partner’s identity must align with the project’s vision.

In the case of House of Zarif, their gowns carry cultural influences from the East, featuring veils and sophisticated cuts that elegantly and contemporarily honor tradition. This characteristic required careful selection of the model to ensure she conveyed this visual language authentically—without stereotypes or oversimplifications, but rather by valuing cultural richness and stylistic diversity.

An Editorial That Inspires

By the end of the day, the experience proved that majestic settings like Schloss Hotel Hugenpoet not only elevate wedding photography but also ignite the imagination of couples. Instantly, clients see themselves living out a modern fairy tale, where every detail is designed to make their big day even more special.

This achievement is proof that, with planning, strategic partnerships, and an eye for detail, it is possible to transform dreams into memorable images that tell love stories in a unique and enchanting way.

Álefe Ouriques