What is your most memorable wedding?
I'd have to say my own (as my wife will not be happy otherwise!) We got married really quick for family reasons, and as my wife is a teacher I did the majority of the planning.
But saying that, no wedding is ever the same! Ultimately, the best weddings are ones where the couple have made their day truly them, as their personalities shine through into the camera. When the couple are comfortable in their own skin and their own decisions the sky is the limit.
Describe your style in 5 adjectives.
Personal, Creative, Unique, Fresh, Unobtrusive
What about your business are you most proud of?
Having the ability to capture peoples happiness to be preserved forever. When couples say I was just like one of the bridal party, that means I followed through on my promise of being unobtrusive and yet one of the gang!
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Don't leave it until last minute, if you know what or who you want get it booked in. I receive so many enquiries that start with, 'we saw you at our friends wedding and want you....' but I'm already booked. Alternatively, I have had, and seen couples book wedding dates around certain suppliers availability. That said, always send the last minute message, you never know! I've shot a wedding with just a days notice.
What is your favourite personal touch you have seen at a wedding?
A groom collected every little ticket/receipt from their first ever date onwards and presented it in an album to the bride on the wedding day. This included things she had thrown in the bin and he had been fishing out to keep. Luckily, she was given it before she had her make up applied!
Describe your typical process with a couple.
Once you get in touch I will send over prices based on the information provided and ask to arrange a meeting. I can meet using Facetime, Skype or Teams, or if you're close by face to face. I often do my meetings on an evening as this seems to work best for people, but can also accomodate daytime. At the meeting I will listen to you both and work out the absolute perfect package for you.
What is the No. 1 photo that you think every couple should take?
I'm a sucker for that one wow image - and as you're unique as a couple, it can't be labelled. It could be an action shot, so during the confetti shot, or something a little more curated so a sunset portrait during couple photos. Sometimes, it's even been a really random moment such as a perfect little look during speeches. For me, the most awesome galleries I deliver are those with lots of these moments in.
What is the most original photo you’ve been asked to take at a wedding?
The one that always sticks in my mind, was a bride and a goat. It was a pet, and as their wedding was held in the garden, during the couple photos we swung by to see them. It was just a hilarious moment as it all fit together perfectly, but wasn't posed!
What do you recommend for a rainy day wedding?
The best weddings are those where the couple ride with whatever is thrown at them. Some of the best photos I've taken are on rainy days, when we either watch for a clear patch, or make use of the indoor spaces. I've shot weddings in storms and snow storms - there's a black and white image on my profile taken during one of the worst snow storms in years. The brides shoes were wrecked, but she said it was so worth it! (and it was her idea to go outside!)
Describe how you got into photography.
My parents kept a camera in a cupboard, and I would sneak in and take photos on it. They only found out when the roll was developed and half of them were photos of our cat or flowers in the garden. Photography has always been part of my life, and I don't see this changing.