With the advent of digital photography, André took a step back from the industry, feeling the medium had left talented photographers second-guessing their work. A break turned out to be just what he needed – and it paved the way for discovering his true forte.
"I was asked to do an engagement shoot a few years later, and that's when I fell in love again with having the camera in my hands," says André. "I was doing it for fun. I was like a new person with a new perspective and a new love for wedding photography. It helped me to build a fresh photographic career."
André and his partner Sofia, an interior designer, set up their own creative studio, BrancoPrata, in 2003. Today, his work takes him all over the globe and his photographs have been featured in notable publications including Brides, Vogue and Martha Stewart Weddings. His portfolio also boasts an Inside Weddings cover shoot, encapsulating a destination wedding in Puerto Rico.
"It's indescribable to go to a newsstand and see our photo on an international wedding magazine," he says. "We don't work for this, but when it happens, I'm so proud."