I like to take “storytelling” shots throughout the day. These tend to be location and scene-setting images, shots of the scenery or buildings, rooms before guests arrive, what the weather is like, etc. These images create a picture of what the day was like and help document the atmosphere.

For the couples shoot, I take you away for 30 minutes. This includes 10 minutes with your bridal party. We will have one or two shots that are camera aware, and the rest will be more interactive. Quite often this is the only time you guys get alone for the whole wedding day, so I encourage my couples to take a little time to themselves. Each couple is different so I tailor this time to them individually depending on what they are comfortable with – sometimes couples are less touchy-feely, while others want more direction. The more relaxed you guys are the better.

During dinner when you eat, I eat (as I doubt you would want photos of yourselves eating!) If you have speeches during dinner, I quietly move around to get shots of the speaker and your reactions, as well as friends and family reactions.

Setting the scene

Later during the ceremony, I take a non-intrusive approach, using a documentary style at this time and do not direct a thing unless required. I try to capture the reactions of your family and friends as well as the ceremony itself.

How I work during the ceremony

After the ceremony, I get the family formals done. These photos are the most traditional that I deliver. I feel that they are timeless, and as important as the more artistic shots of the day, as these are the ones that get printed and placed in the family households. I will have a list made of who is needed in each group with a predetermined person to help corral, so as to make it as pain-free as I can. This allows everyone to get back to the party as quick as possible. Though we do have fun at this part of the day too.

How i approach the couples shoot

What to expect from your family formal photos 

Capturing you and your guests

During the drinks reception, I go back to the more documentary style, where I move around looking for genuine interactions between your guests. Also at this time if there are any more group photos that anyone would like taken. I am happy to oblige, such as; the old school or college friends or the aunts and uncles for example.

Finally… its time to party! I photograph the first dance and when everyone joins in I tend to get right in there so I can get the action shots. I typically stay for the first few songs.

What happens when it's time to party