Married to my Camera

Tell us a little about yourself?

I’m based in Guildford and have been shooting weddings professionally since 2007. Prior to that I gained a degree in Photography, did some magazine and exhibition work and taught. I also enjoy getting out on my bike around the Surrey hills.

How would you describe your wedding photography style and what makes you unique?

At the core of what I do, is the belief that documentary photography relies on skills above and beyond the technical knowhow of operating a camera. Skills such as empathy, listening, keeping an open mind, and seeing the humor in any situation allow me to capture the images I do.

Do you shoot digitally or with film? Or both?

I shoot everything digitally nowadays, but I cut my teeth shooting on film and would spend days in the darkroom.

What type of equipment do you use?

I now use Sony mirrorless cameras which are a joy to use and appreciated by couples and registrars alike, because I’m able to shoot silently during the ceremony and still capture the candid moments that I love.

Do you shoot in colour and black and white?

Everything is shot in colour and then using my artistic judgement, and depending on the style of the wedding, lighting etc some will be processed in black and white.

Do you include an engagement shoot?

The engagement shoot is not something I include as standard, but I do offer the option of an engagement/pre-wedding shoot or a “mini e-shoot” which is proving to be really popular.

How long after the wedding will the couple receive their proofs?

I like to give the couple a few previews on social media within 24-48 hours, and they can expect the full online gallery around four weeks after the wedding.

How far in advance should couples book you?

My couples tend to book a year to two years before the wedding, although I have to say that some of my favourite weddings have been booked at the last minute!

What information do you need from the couple before the wedding day?

I love to have a video chat as soon as a couple gets in touch and then meet them at their venue before the big day. I like to have the running order of the day and a list of group photos so that there’s no confusion, but I also want to get to know my couples on a more personal level and try and bring that out in the photos.

What are you expecting see more mainstream/more common in the next year or two?

I’m really hoping that humanist ceremonies increase in popularity. Each one that I’ve been fortunate enough to photograph so far has been so unique and personalized to the couple.

If you were getting married, how would you choose your wedding photographer?

Of course the final decision would be up to my beautiful bride! However, I’d hope to find a photographer who was able to capture not only what happened on the day, but how it felt to be there.