Family Event Photographer Brighton and London | Documentary Wedding Photography

Last week I did something a bit out of my comfort zone - I did my very first wedding shoot! This was something completely different from my usual family photoshoot. This time I wasn't chasing kids with my camera, but instead had to direct my subjects - something I normally avoid doing during my family documentary photoshoots. 

I'd already had a great consultation with the bride-to-be, and I knew the venue having been there myself previously. I also thought about what I loved about the photographers at my own wedding, and the kinds of wedding shoots and images that I most loved. But even though I was well prepared I have to admit that I was quite nervous on the day of the shoot. A wedding is such a special day and you basically can't afford to make any mistakes on the job. There are so many important moments that you really need to capture - and you only have one chance, if you miss them they're gone. 

I felt incredibly honoured to be part of Anna and Richard's very small and intimate wedding ceremony in London which was held in the Southwark Registry Office in Peckham. It was just the couple, their two witnesses and...me! It was important to me that I didn't interfere in their special day, that they could enjoy it 'in the moment' and that I could blend into the background to document it without disrupting the flow.

The wedding ceremony itself was lovely - and I was constantly shooting to try to catch every moment: the rings, the tears, the kiss...  and we were also able to take a few portraits in the garden of the venue, and were blessed with a really lovely sunny day that helped bring added warmth and colour to the photos. 

As soon as I got home I transferred the images to my laptop - to see them on a proper screen, and begin the careful process of selecting and editing. 

One thing I love about wedding and event photography is the way the timeline of the event can help you tell the story of the day and the people involved. 

I've tried to combine the big events in their (short!) wedding day with those little moments that speak volumes about them and their relationship with each other, and with their friends. I hope you like the pictures!