FAQ
How would you describe your style ?
My style is documentary in that I do not direct, pose or interfere with proceedings. Not only that but I would say my style is more real, perhaps grittier than other photographers.
Why do you photograph this way ?
Weddings in my opinion need to be photographed unobtrusively with delicacy and sensitivity. This is essential in capturing genuine emotion and real moments. The photographer should fit around the wedding rather than the other way round. By posing or controlling events the wedding record is the photographer's interpretation of what happened rather than what really happened. So I prefer to capture the event as honest and as truthfully as possible. I want your photos to be enjoyed not only in the short term but also by future generations.
What about formal groups ?
Although I shoot in a documentary style I believe formal groups are an important part of the day. I am therefore happy to shoot 6 -12 groups if requested, usually straight after the ceremony.This I aim to complete within 20 minutes. I will also take some shots of the couple alone which are loosely directed and also lasts about 20 minutes.
Tell us about your experience
I have been a full time wedding photographer for 26 years having photographed over 1000 weddings during this time. From small intimate weddings with just a few guests to grand city hotels and scottish castles with hundreds of guests. And from all faiths - Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, Humanist... I've experienced the lot.
Choosing a photographer or any other wedding vendor always has an element of risk particularly as there are no second chances. I'd like to think therefore with this experience behind me this risk is at a minimum.
Do you work alone or with assistants ?
I work alone. However on a few occasions I might have a non shooting assistant. I believe with 2 or more photographers this can become quite intrusive. With my approach it is easier to blend in and to earn the trust of the couple and the guests.
What about unfamiliar venues ?
As I work all over the UK many venues are new to me. I prefer not to have any pre conceived ideas which means my photography remains fresh and spontaneous. If I feel it necessary I'll arrive a few minutes early and will scout them at this stage.
Do you have any testimonials ?
I have hundreds going back many years. You can see the most upto date ones from 2009 on my blog testimonial page
What happens if you become ill and can no longer photograph our wedding ?
I am a member of a large network of wedding photographers and we all help each other out in emergencies. A good replacement could therefore be arranged at very short notice. It is also unlikely you will incur further expense as a result.
If we want to book how do we proceed ?
A non refundable deposit of £350 is required together with a signed contract. Please note I do not hold or 'pencil in' dates. It is strictly first come first served. Many bookings are from recommendations and book without meeting beforehand. So popular dates go quickly.
Once you have booked I will then arrange a meeting approximately 2 - 4 weeks before the wedding to discuss the finer details. At this meeting the final balance is due.
