Question 1

What's your advice on planning an outdoor wedding?

Accepted Answer

Summer is here bringing with it the chance to have your wedding ceremony outdoors. Beautiful gardens or natural woodland, fresh air, sunshine and the birds serenading you as you take your vows. Perfect! From springtime until autumn, many venues offer the option of celebrating outdoors. But, this is Britain, so always have a plan B, as no one wants a wet wedding dress and soggy guests. Most venues keep a keen eye on the skies right up until the last moment in case you have to opt for indoors. Don't be disappointed if plan B has to come into action though, as your photographer will get you outdoors at some point for some amazing, creative shots – rain is an artistic feature. For woodland weddings, with no indoor option your guests will be grateful for clear brollies, and maybe a rug for their legs. These make great photos as we see them behind you while you make your promises to each other. Although you and your guests will be wishing for the brightest sunshine for your wedding day, believe it or not, it poses quite a challenge for your photographer as it creates harsh light and shadows, which we have to work hard to minimise. The other thing we really can't control is the wind, it has a wonderful habit of blowing your veil and your fabulous hairstyle across your face at just the wrong moment! Photoshop is not a miracle worker, and to be honest these natural moments are the true reflection of your day, just like the laughter and the tears. Enough of the negatives (photographic pun intended), the atmosphere for your outdoor ceremony is magical. Everyone feels more relaxed and that makes brilliant photos; shots of you both surrounded by nature and beautiful light are just wonderful. Your outdoor feeling doesn't have to be confined to the daylight either, with lighting carefully placed outdoors the most amazing effects can be created as day turns to night.

Question 2

What are your top trend predictions for 2023?

Accepted Answer

"If we're honest, most of us hate having our photos taken unless it's selfies with friends, of course! But when it comes to paying someone professionally, most of us shudder at the idea and struggle to feel at our natural best. So, with more couples looking for less traditional photography, instead wanting their wedding story to be documented, how do you learn to be relaxed in front of the camera?While the idea of an engagement shoot isn't new, how they are structured is changing, causing even the most camera-shy to look again. When working with our couples, we typically set aside a three-hour time slot for a session, giving them plenty of time to relax without any time pressure. It enables us to walk, talk and take in different backdrops. It allows couples to find out what works for them and discover how they feel most comfortable being photographed. In the end, even the most camera-shy are surprised by how much fun they had. It's only natural to feel anxious in the run up to the wedding, but getting to know your suppliers, especially those you'll spend a lot of time with, can genuinely help. Understanding how they're going to work removes the fear of the unknown meaning you can relax and enjoy the day more.

Question 3

What are your top trend predictions for 2023?

Accepted Answer

As we all get back to normal, many couples appreciate the opportunity to have their wedding day exactly as they want it. Some are opting for an all-out approach with everything they've ever dreamed of, while for others a more intimate affair is appealing. A photographer who listens carefully to your plans and ideas is a great place to start. Chatting about yourselves, your hopes and maybe some concerns about being in front of the camera will help you to be more relaxed and enjoy all aspects of the day you've planned so carefully. Whether you've chosen to marry in a castle, at your local village hall or anywhere in between, your photographer will find the best aspects for your first photos as a married couple, creating something special just for you. As we all know, most of us are at our most relaxed when we're not posing, so your photographer's ability to get on with your guests and capture the unscripted moments you probably don't see yourself creates some of the very best memories immortalised forever.

Question 4

We're looking for a wedding photographer, but we're a bit worried about booking someone online we've never met. Do you have any suggestions?

Accepted Answer

In this day and age, it seems our entire lives can be run online, and indeed over the last two years much of our lives have been forced online. Whether it's ordering a pizza or shopping for a wedding photographer, it's often our first port of call in a busy life. When your life is hectic and you haven't managed to meet photographers at wedding fairs or other weddings, looking at their websites and chatting online can be fitted in any time. What catches your eye first will be the style of images they present. Do they appeal to your own sense of style? Take time to read any recommendations as well as any blogs they may have written as these will give you an idea of their personality. Clearly, you need to be able to communicate easily and comfortably. Ideally, they should respond to your initial enquiry within 24 hours, even if it's just a, "Thank you and welcome, we're working at a wedding today but will chat tomorrow." A helpful, fairly rapid response is always a good indicator. Over the last couple of years we've all become accustomed to Zoom calls. They're a useful tool when you can't meet in person. They give you a chance to see faces, hear voices, ask questions and look at possible products such as photo albums. They give you the opportunity to see if the photographer is a good match for you both – just don't judge them by their wallpaper or contents of their shelves! We've enjoyed many giggles with clients negotiating the vagaries of video calls. Never be afraid to ask questions. You might even want to know if they have any previous couples who'd be willing to chat with you. Planning your big day should be a pleasure not a chore, so most of all, enjoy yourselves!

FAQs and expert advice about photography