What is your most memorable wedding?
This is really tough - I have been to some amazing weddings! However, my answer here would actually be a recent wedding in Cornwall I shot, purely because it was actually my friends' wedding so it had that special element to it already. It was an honour to be trusted to capture their day, and lots of fun.
Describe your style in 5 adjectives.
Natural, documentary, creative, relaxed, candid.
What about your business are you most proud of?
I am most proud of always making my couple's feel relaxed and comfortable with me in the build up and on their day. Earlier in 2022, when Lee Brewer went bankrupt and left hundreds of people without a photographer, I was especially glad to be able to help some of them with short notice, and create some beautiful images over their day.
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Schedule lots, but prepare for it to be flexible! It's important all the wedding party and suppliers are aware of everything needed from them and have an order of the day. However, it's normal for things to run late, or have to be adjusted on the day too.
So prepare for everything, but be prepared for it to change! Planners or coordinators are a huge help here, if you're hiring a venue with one - use them!
What is your favourite personal touch you have seen at a wedding?
I love instant cameras, so the guests can take a photo, and either sign it or put it in a guest book with their notes and comments. Anything that is personal to you, whether a specific plant, a funny item, whatever it is that makes you 'you'!
Describe your typical process with a couple.
Once I receive an enquiry, I'll setup an initial phone or video call. I'll meet you, chat through your schedule, learn what you're thinking about photos, and suggest any ideas I have. After this, when you confirm, I'll send through my contract and deposit invoice.
From there, depending on how far away your wedding is, we will have check-ins via email and also again by video or in person. Prior to your wedding, full balance is paid, we've had our last check-in, and are all set with schedules and ideas!
On your day, I will coordinate usually with the bride or maid of honour, as getting ready photos are usually first port of call. I'll set up with you, take plenty of photos, from the classic detail and dress shots, to candid laughter moments. From here, it's a case of letting you enjoy the day, guiding you through set images you may want, and letting it all unfold naturally too.
What is the No. 1 photo that you think every couple should take?
It's got to be the couples photos! Which pose will depend on your personality as a couple, but these photos are absolutely the most important ones! They are a chance to take some time away from your guests, to relax a little, and to allow to me to capture some truly stunning photos of you. These are also an opportunity to share your personality. Dog lover? Then have some with your dog! Or perhaps you love a type of sport - let's incorporate it! The more creative the better in my opinion.
What is the most original photo you’ve been asked to take at a wedding?
Though I've captured some truly original moments, most of these were natural and not staged. The most original photos that have been orchestrated would probably be at a golfing hotel venue, where all the groomsmen wanted photos on the golf cart.
What do you recommend for a rainy day wedding?
Umbrellas! Honestly, rain isn't so bad for photos, just prepare your guests, make sure you have a backup location for group photos, and enjoy the day.
Describe how you got into photography.
I've been working as a freelance photographer since I studied it at university about 10 years ago! Prior to that, I studied photography at college, and even further back, I had a interest that was encouraged by my family. Over the years I've worked in many different photography fields, but it's always been something I've loved.