Men Portrait Photography

"I'm not photogenic." That's probably the most common sentence I hear from men before a shoot in Lisbon. Sometimes it's said half-jokingly, sometimes very seriously. And almost always, it's followed by a pause, as if you're waiting for me to confirm your fear. I never do. Because after years of working with men's photo sessions, I know one thing for sure: photogenic is not something you are, it's something that happens when the conditions are right.

In this article, I want to walk you through how men's photo shootings in Lisbon actually work, what you can expect, and why this experience is usually very different from what you imagine. I'll cover how we choose locations, what to wear, how posing really works (spoiler: it's not about posing), and why most men leave the session surprised by how comfortable it felt.

Why men come to me for a photo shoot

Men book photo shoots for very different reasons. Some need portraits for work, LinkedIn, or a personal website. Some want better photos for dating apps. Others are at a point where they simply want images that reflect who they are now, not 10 years ago.

What unites all of them is this: you don't want to look staged, artificial, or like someone you're not. And honestly, I don't want that either. My job is not to turn you into a model. My job is to help you look like yourself on a good day.

"I don't know how to pose" – good news

This is another classic. And here's the honest answer: you don't need to know. Most men shouldn't "pose" in the traditional sense at all.

Think of posing like driving a car. If you focus on every single movement, it feels awkward. If someone guides you gently and you focus on where you're going, everything becomes natural. During men's photo sessions, I guide you with simple actions, not stiff positions.

• Walking instead of standing still
• Using hands naturally, not hiding them
• Small movements instead of frozen poses
• Real pauses, real expressions
• Breathing normally (yes, it matters)
• Looking away sometimes, not always at the camera
• Letting moments happen instead of forcing them

This is why sessions often feel more like a walk and a conversation than a photo shoot.

Lisbon as a backdrop, not a postcard

Lisbon is beautiful, but I don't treat it like a checklist of landmarks. You don't need another photo with a tram behind you unless it actually fits your story.

I choose locations based on light, texture, and mood. Narrow streets that create soft shadows. Open viewpoints with space to breathe. Simple walls, stairs, cafés, corners that feel real. Lisbon gives us variety without trying too hard.

The city works especially well for men because it allows calm, grounded images. Nothing loud, nothing forced. Just you in a place that adds character without stealing attention.

What to wear (and what really matters)

You don't need a huge wardrobe. You need clothes that feel like you. If you feel uncomfortable, it will show, no matter how expensive the outfit is.

I usually suggest bringing 2–3 options. Neutral colors, simple shapes, nothing with big logos. Think of clothes as a frame, not the painting.

• Well-fitted basics always work better than trendy pieces
• Layers add depth without effort
• Comfort beats fashion every time
• Shoes matter more than most men expect
• Wrinkled clothes read as careless on camera
• Accessories should feel natural, not added last minute
• If you doubt it, bring it, we'll decide together

I help you choose on the spot. You're not alone in this.

Confidence is not a pose

Many men think confidence is something you have to "show" in front of the camera. In reality, confidence appears when you stop trying to show anything.

Some of the strongest portraits happen in quiet moments. Between movements. When you're listening. When you're thinking. When you're simply being present.

My role is to create space where that can happen. No rush. No pressure. No pretending. And yes, sometimes a bit of humor helps :)

Who these sessions are really for

If you're expecting heavy retouching or a fake version of yourself, I'm probably not your photographer. But if you want images that feel honest, calm, and timeless, then we're on the same page.

Men's photo sessions work best when you're open to the process and trust it a little. You don't need experience. You don't need confidence. You just need to show up.

Wrapping it up

Men's photo shootings in Lisbon don't have to be stressful or awkward. They can be simple, grounded, and even enjoyable. You walk, we talk, the city does its part, and the camera quietly does the rest.

If you've been putting this off because you think you're "not photogenic", that's usually the exact reason to do it. And who knows, you might even enjoy it more than you expect.

Lisbon is ready. The light is good. And you've probably got this more than you think.