Personal

Why I Still Get Butterflies Before Every Wedding

September 18, 2025

Bride and groom wedding portrait in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest, captured by destination wedding photographer Helga Antal

Even after all these years, I still get butterflies before every single wedding I photograph.

Maybe it’s because I know how much this day means. Maybe it’s because I get to witness one of life’s most vulnerable, honest, and beautiful moments — and turn it into something that lasts forever.

When I pack my gear the night before, it’s not just cameras and lenses going into the bag. It’s responsibility. It’s excitement. It’s the quiet promise I make to every couple:
I will notice the little moments you might miss. I will tell your story with honesty and care. I will give you something to hold onto when the day is over.

I still feel the thrill when the first look happens. I still tear up when vows are read. I still get goosebumps when the dance floor opens and everyone forgets the world outside for a while.

Every time I’m at a wedding, I’m reminded what a privilege it is to be there — because vendors are the only people in the room who aren’t family, yet we get to witness everything.

If you’re planning your wedding or elopement and want someone who cares as much as you do, let’s chat. 💌 Your story deserves to be remembered this way. If you’re planning your own Amalfi Coast wedding, let’s chat about how I can capture it for you.

Bride and groom embracing in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest, elegant European city wedding photography

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

BEHIND THE LENS

ABOUT HELGA

Hi, I’m Helga — a destination wedding and elopement photographer based in Europe, capturing bold love stories along the Amalfi Coast, Positano, Ravello, and beyond.

For 25+ years, I’ve turned real moments into timeless imagery. My work blends cinematic storytelling with a natural, editorial feel — and my signature approach? All heart, all fun, all you.

Whether I’m photographing a surprise proposal by boat in Capri, a luxury wedding weekend in the Austrian Alps, or barefoot vows at sunrise in Ravello, I show up with creative direction, warm energy, and the eye of someone who truly loves what she does.

Clients always say the same thing after our session:

“That didn’t feel like a photo shoot — it felt like we were floating.”
And it shows. My galleries are filled with real emotion, golden light, and that can't-stop-smiling kind of magic.

When I’m not shooting, I’m in my rose garden, sipping Prosecco, or dreaming up my next creative project — but no matter where I go, my camera’s with me.

If you're looking for a luxury wedding photographer in Italy who will hype you up, handle the details, and deliver drop-dead-gorgeous images that feel like memories — I’m your girl.

Let’s make magic.

the

       IDEAL ELOPEMENT TIMELINE GUIDE

Planning your elopement should feel exciting — not overwhelming.
This free guide walks you through one of my favorite example timelines, designed to help you slow down, feel everything, and soak in every beautiful moment of your day.
Whether you're exchanging vows at sunrise in the Alps or chasing golden hour in Amalfi, this guide adapts to you. No rules, no stress — just thoughtful timing, dreamy light, and room to breathe.
Download it below and start dreaming.

© Studio Rose photography 2025