So... you LOVE having your photo taken??
No?! I didn't think so!!
I would say at least 90% of people don't think they feel comfortable in front of the camera... Feel self conscious... Don't think they're photogenic...
Luckily none of this will be a problem, I promise! Once your day is rolling and the camera starts snapping away it will become white noise. We can chat, we can laugh, or I can fade into the background while you are busy having fun with your friends. I absolutely promise you that the edited finished album will make you change your mind about all the above! You won't even notice me taking pictures most of the time and when you do we will make sure it's fun not awkward - with the right approach, the photography can literally add moments of joy to your day rather than being a chore to endure!
Let me share some of the key parts of the day that people ask about when we first meet...
Photos of you two...
This is your time together guys! And it's ALL about how it feels. If it feels full of joy it will look gorgeous!
Photographs are an ideal excuse to sneak away and have a moment together away from all the pulls on your attention. A few moments for the two of you. Before your day we can agree roughly when in these opportunities might fit your timetable then we can play it by ear. I'm not strict but I will definitely help you to remember to get the pictures that you are hoping for... I will always be keeping an eye on the light too, and grab you if it looks good!!
During your time together I will help with some prompts rather than poses but these will be more along the lines of where to stand, "have a kiss", "snuggle up and look at the view"... No super specific staged poses and no spending your valuable time getting 'that shot'. This is about facilitating and catching moments of real emotion.
Candid, spontaneous moments - a documentary of your day...
Finding the moments, catching the action as it unfolds, paying attention to the details and jumping in on opportunities... Often a big focus for couples is wanting the 'candid', natural photographs of the day and their guests and this is one of my favourite bits!
Guests will often chat to the photography team and I think this is fab, it's great to get involved. I love to catch a selfie moment and steal it for a great unplanned group shot, people often ask for spontaneous group shots too once they see that I'm up for it. These moments go so well alongside the true documentary style images where moments unfold naturally.
Last minute speech writing, a sneaky swig from a bottle, an emotional hug, a tear during the speeches. It all adds up to a record of your day that will make up a really significant proportion of your photographs. Like all my photography, this is about striking a balance and being sensitive to when to get involved and when to fade away!
All the rollercoaster emotions - they will be saved here, guaranteed 🤍
And then there's the group shots...
Nearly everybody wants some group shots but don't forget when you are doing your planning, all the time you are lining up in different groups is time you could spend chatting to people, having a laugh and enjoying your day. My main advice is to give someone (loud and efficient - I'm sure there's one!) the job of organising the groups, and only plan a handful - no more than 10 at the most ideally.
When we do these we'll get everyone together, I'll snap away with everyone smiling at the camera then encourage everyone to have a laugh before moving on to the next group... I won't spend ages making the group pose, we'll keep it pretty relaxed.
Also, if you fancy it, it can be nice to take the bridal party off for another fun photo session later in the day - like the photos of you as a couple, this is a great opportunity to have laugh with your closest friends and really adds moments to the day - champagne spray maybe?!
Don't forget the dancefloor!
Fist dance then a bit more - I'll be dodging flailing limbs and standing on chairs, catching the faces, the moves and the energy in the room... If you want more of this you are welcome to extend how long I stay for the evening - people are always keen to pose for some ad hoc groups at this point and this may just be where you have the most laughs when you re-live your day afterwards!
FAQs
How would you briefly describe your style?
True colour, warm, relaxed, natural.
I am low key and unobtrusive but also collaborative in ensuring that I truly understand what you are looking for both in your experience and in the end result. I want to ensure that your photos end up being exactly what you are hoping for.
Can we chat to you before we book?
Definitely! I would love to! I would 100% say it's a good idea too - whoever you pick for photography will be by your side on and off all day so make sure it is right.
I'm very happy to do a video call, or if you are local and would prefer to catch up over a coffee or a drink lets do it. Fill in my contact form or drop me a message or WhatsApp (07966026701) and we can get something set up.
I am worried I will look awkward, how can I relax for the photos?
If you're feeling really anxious about being in front of the camera I'd really recommend thinking about adding an Engagement Shoot to your package. This is such a great way to get to know me, get used to being in front of the camera, and to learn to trust that you are going to love your photos and that you will look fab!
Remember, with a proper camera (rather than a phone), the shutter is going all the time so all the awkward moments and half shut eyes will go in the bin and you will be left with the smiles and laughs, I promise!
How can we book?
Fill in my contact form on this website and I will get back to you asap with my availability for your date and to arrange the next steps - usually a call or a meet up. When you contact me I will put a soft hold on your date which means I will notify you if anybody else has enquired. As soon as you sign your contract and pay the deposit your date is firmly yours.
What experience do you have?
I started my photography business in 2022 and started second shooting at weddings in 2023. I have shot 8 weddings alongside Sarah ( Sarah Grace Photography). I have weddings booked in 2025 and 2026 from a combination of meeting couples at weddings and word of mouth referrals, as well as several more lined up as a second shooter alongside Sarah.
I am a real believer in transparency and I prefer all the couples I work with to know exactly where I am in this exciting journey.
Although not direct wedding experience, my portfolio includes a range of commercial (including restaurant shoots for Bill's restaurants) and family photography, which has really developed the breadth of my technical skills. I am a senior NHS physio too - so 'people' are my thing, and there are lots of transferable skills (believe it or not!) - reading the room and reading the emotion of the situation to name just two!
Are you insured?
I have public liability and professional indemnity insurance.
I'm happy to provide evidence of this for your venue.
What would happen if you are not well and unable to shoot our wedding?
My NHS sickness record is pretty immaculate (if you find that at all reassuring!). I'm a pretty fit and healthy human! BUT if I were unable to cover your wedding for whatever reason, I would find you another photographer to take my place.
Are there any restrictions on what we can do with our photos?
You can't sell them on - please discuss with me if this question arises.
You also can't edit or use, for example, social media filters to change the colours on them - colour and light are key parts of the artistic process and the editing process and are a part of any photographers identity.
Do we need to feed you on our wedding day?
I would really appreciate it if you can. It is a long day without a proper meal otherwise - and I am not the best company when I'm hungry!!
Likewise, if you have requested a second shooter the same goes for them if at all possible.
If you can't for whatever reason please do let me know and I can make sure I have something with me.
Standard practice is for the photographer (and videographer if you have one) to have a break and a meal during your wedding breakfast - people don't tend to love pictures of them eating!!
What is the deposit?
Your deposit will be 20% of your package price to book. There is also a contract to sign at this point detailing my standard terms and conditions.
The balance is payable 2 calendar months before your wedding day.
Can we have the unedited photographs?
No I'm afraid not. Part of booking a photographer is booking their whole style and that includes their edit style - it is part of the art!
Believe me, you wouldn't want hundreds of RAW files anyway, they are massive and would fill your hard drive, and they are not nearly as beautiful as the finished product.
I have never had any problems with my editing BUT if you did have an issue with anything in particular please be reassured that I would look at it and do what I can for you - my aim is to send you away completely happy with you images and I really love to take a collaborative approach to this.
