Documentary wedding photography is a term you’ll hear a lot when you start looking for a photographer. But it isn’t always clear what it actually means, or whether it’s the right fit for you. At its heart, documentary wedding photography is about telling the story of your wedding day as it genuinely unfolds. It isn’t about staging moments or directing every part of the day. It’s about observing, anticipating, and quietly capturing what happens naturally. For couples who want their wedding to feel relaxed, personal and unforced, this approach often makes a great deal of sense. What Documentary Wedding Photography Really Means Rather than interrupting moments, documentary wedding photography works around them. It focuses on: real reactions rather than posed expressions natural interactions between people the atmosphere of the day as it actually felt moments you may not even realise were happening That might be a parent’s expression during the ceremony, laughter during speeches, or friends catching up during the drinks reception. These moments aren’t planned, but they often become the images couples connect with most strongly afterwards. What Documentary Wedding Photography Isn’t There’s sometimes a misunderstanding that documentary photography means no structure at all. It doesn’t mean: no family photos no couple portraits or a photographer who disappears completely It simply means those parts of the day are handled calmly and efficiently, without turning your wedding into a constant photoshoot. The emphasis stays on experience first, photography second. A Calm Presence on Your Wedding Day One of the biggest advantages of documentary wedding photography is how it feels on the day itself. Most couples don’t want to be repeatedly stopped or directed. They want time with the people they’ve invited and space to enjoy what they’ve spent months planning. By working quietly and blending into the background, I’m able to photograph what’s happening without drawing attention to the camera. Couples often tell me afterwards that they barely noticed I was there, which is exactly how it should feel. Why Real Moments Matter When you look back at your wedding photographs years from now, it’s rarely the perfectly arranged images that mean the most. It’s the expressions you didn’t see at the time. The reactions happening just out of your view. The moments unfolding naturally between people you care about. Documentary wedding photography preserves those details honestly. It creates a record of the day as it was, not a version shaped around the camera. What About Portraits? A documentary approach doesn’t mean skipping portraits altogether. Portraits still matter. The difference lies in how they’re approached. Rather than stiff posing or long periods away from your guests, portraits are kept relaxed and unhurried. I’ll guide you gently, choose good light, and allow room for natural interaction. Most couples are surprised by how straightforward this part feels once they realise they don’t need to perform for the camera. The aim is always for your portraits to feel like you. Is Documentary Wedding Photography Right for You? This style often suits couples who: want their day to flow naturally don’t enjoy being the centre of attention value emotion over perfection want photographs that still feel relevant years from now If you care more about how your wedding felt than how it was staged, documentary wedding photography is often a very good fit. A Balanced, Experience Led Approach In reality, most modern wedding photography sits somewhere between documentary and gentle direction. My own approach blends natural storytelling with calm organisation when it’s helpful, particularly for family photos or portraits, so nothing feels rushed or chaotic. The priority is always the same. Allowing you to enjoy your wedding day fully, while I quietly document it as it unfolds. A Final Thought Your wedding day happens once. The moments move quickly and many pass unnoticed at the time. Documentary wedding photography exists to preserve those moments honestly, the big ones, the quiet ones, and everything in between, so when you look back, you’re remembering not just how your wedding looked, but how it truly felt. Russell

For many couples, the idea of a professional photoshoot can feel slightly daunting. You might be wondering what to do with your hands, whether it will feel awkward, or if the photos will really feel like you. That’s completely normal. A good engagement photoshoot shouldn’t feel staged or uncomfortable. It should feel more like time spent together – with space to relax, chat, and ease into being photographed while I quietly capture what’s already there. This post explains what an engagement photoshoot is really about, how it works, and why it can be such a valuable part of the process before your wedding day. What an Engagement Photoshoot Is Really For An engagement photoshoot isn’t about practising poses or creating perfect moments. It’s about confidence. It gives you the chance to experience what it feels like to be in front of my camera without any pressure, timelines or expectations. There’s no ceremony waiting to start and no guests watching. It’s simply the two of you, spending time together. By the time your wedding day arrives, being photographed feels familiar rather than intimidating – which makes a real difference to how relaxed your photos feel. A Chance to Slow Things Down Wedding planning can move quickly. Engagement shoots offer a pause. It’s time to step away from emails, decisions and logistics and focus on the two of you. Most sessions involve walking, talking, and gently exploring a location together. There’s no rush and nothing to perform. That slower pace helps people relax naturally, which is always when the strongest photographs happen. Choosing a Location That Feels Personal The best engagement photos rarely come from choosing the most impressive backdrop. They come from places that mean something to you. That might be: a favourite walk the place you got engaged your local area somewhere you return to often or even your own home Being somewhere familiar instantly puts you at ease. You’re not thinking about how you look or where to stand – you’re simply present. That comfort shows clearly in the final images. I photograph engagement shoots across the UK, so the location is always guided by what feels right for you, not what looks fashionable. Doing Something Helps More Than You Think One of the easiest ways to forget about the camera is to have something to do. Walking together, bringing the dog, grabbing a coffee, cooking at home or exploring somewhere you enjoy all create natural interaction. These moments allow conversation, movement and genuine reactions to happen without any prompting. Rather than standing still and wondering what to do, you’re simply being yourselves – which is exactly what an engagement photoshoot should capture. What to Wear Without Overthinking It There’s no need to coordinate outfits perfectly or buy something new unless you want to. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and like yourselves. Clothes that allow you to move easily and feel confident always photograph best. Soft, neutral or muted tones tend to work well, and it’s usually best to avoid large logos or very bold patterns that draw attention away from you. Layers and texture add interest and allow some variety without needing a full outfit change. If you’re unsure, I’m always happy to talk things through beforehand. What the Session Feels Like on the Day We’ll start gently. The first part of an engagement photoshoot is usually spent walking and chatting, giving you time to settle in and get used to the camera being there. I don’t jump straight into photographs or ask you to pose. I’ll offer light guidance where it helps, but nothing stiff or unnatural. Most couples are surprised by how quickly they forget they’re being photographed at all. By the end, it often feels less like a shoot and more like time well spent together. Why Engagement Photos Are So Useful Engagement photos often become some of the most used images from the whole wedding journey. They’re ideal for: save the dates wedding websites guest books framed prints for your home gifts for family They also capture this stage of your lives exactly as it is – before the pace of the wedding day takes over. A Simple, Reassuring Experience An engagement photoshoot isn’t about creating a version of you that doesn’t exist. It’s about capturing your connection as it already is. There’s no pressure to perform, no expectation to be confident in front of the camera, and no need to know what you’re doing beforehand. My role is to create a calm environment where you can relax and be yourselves. The result is a set of photographs that feel honest, natural and personal – and a level of confidence that carries straight into your wedding day. Russell

Some weddings stay with you because of the setting, and others because of the people involved. This August day brought both together in a way that felt honest and memorable. The ceremony took place at Dore Abbey , where the couple’s friends - all professional choristers - filled the space with music that suited the Abbey perfectly. Their voices carried through the stone arches and added a depth that shaped the atmosphere from the outset. After the ceremony, everyone travelled to The Haybarn , a venue that lends itself well to a relaxed celebration. Its open layout and thoughtful design gave guests room to settle in and enjoy the afternoon at their own pace. The Ceremony at Dore Abbey Dore Abbey has a character of its own, and weddings there tend to feel naturally grounded. The layout, the light and the sense of space all add to the atmosphere. The choir’s singing made this ceremony feel quietly powerful without needing any extra embellishment, and it set the tone for a ceremony that felt personal and meaningful. The couple kept things straightforward, choosing to focus on the moment rather than adding too many extras. This allowed the music, the setting and the people around them to take centre stage. It was clear how much it meant to those who were there, and it came through clearly in the photographs. Reception at The Haybarn Once everyone arrived at The Haybarn, the day opened up. The venue’s layout makes it easy for guests to move around, find their own spot and enjoy the rest of the celebration. Conversations, laughter and those small unscripted moments all played out naturally. The mix of natural light and warm interiors worked well for photography, offering plenty of opportunities to capture people interacting and the couple stepping away for a few quieter moments of their own. Cake and Catering The cake, made by The Stables Pantry , fitted the tone of the day perfectly. Beautifully made, unfussy and well thought out - the sort of cake that does exactly what it needs to without trying too hard. Catering from The Cider Barn was equally strong. Fresh ingredients, well balanced dishes and a menu that suited the relaxed style of the wedding. It was well received by guests and complemented the flow of the afternoon. Flowers by The Cutting Garden The floral arrangements by The Cutting Garden brought a natural lift to both venues. Their use of seasonal flowers and soft, textured foliage added colour and interest without overpowering the spaces. The arrangements worked beautifully in the Abbey’s stone setting and transitioned seamlessly into The Haybarn’s wooden interiors. Live Music by Monico Once the evening began, Monico took the energy up a level. They brought a genuine party atmosphere to The Haybarn and kept it going from the first song to the last. The dancefloor never emptied, with guests of all ages joining in throughout the night. Their setlist was well judged, their presence unfussy, and they played a major role in shaping the feel of the evening. Photographing the Day Photographing this wedding was a pleasure from start to finish. The combination of an historic ceremony venue, a well designed reception space and a group of people fully present in the day provided everything needed for natural storytelling. From the choral performance in the Abbey to the quieter moments at The Haybarn, each part of the day offered something different to capture. Nothing forced, nothing rushed - just a series of genuine interactions and details that came together to tell a complete story. A wedding does not need to be elaborate to be memorable. This one showed how meaningful it can be when the focus stays on the couple, the people close to them and the places they choose. The suppliers played a strong part in shaping the experience, and the two venues complemented each other well. A day that felt true to the couple from beginning to end. " Russell was just wonderful from our first contact through to the day, showing experience, professionalism, good humour, a can-do attitude and produced for us a super set of photos from our wedding. We can't fault his fantastic work and approach on the day, and recommend him to everyone!" Anna & Daniel

When I first met up with Kayleigh and Ryan shortly before their wedding, we had the chance to walk through the logistics and timings for their big day. This meeting was a wonderful opportunity to ensure everything was well planned, and it made a real difference in how smoothly the day went. The couple had a clear vision, and with some thoughtful coordination, their wedding turned into a day that was not only meaningful but perfectly suited to their personalities. The Power of Planning: Setting the Stage for a Relaxed Day Having a solid plan for the day doesn’t just help with keeping things on track—it also ensures that everyone remains relaxed and enjoys the celebration. By walking through their schedule and making sure every element fit together, we created a clear timeline that allowed Kayleigh and Ryan to enjoy their day to the fullest without feeling rushed. Everything was set up to flow naturally, from the ceremony to the portraits and beyond. A Beautiful and Intimate Ceremony at St Giles Church, Ludford Kayleigh and Ryan were married in the stunning, intimate surroundings of St Giles Church in Ludford. The church’s atmosphere was serene and peaceful, the perfect place for such an important moment in their lives. Kayleigh’s friends added a personal touch by providing the flowers and performing the music during the register signing, creating a truly heartfelt and meaningful atmosphere. Meeting Guests and Capturing Candid Moments After the ceremony, the couple met their guests at the Church porch, surrounded by well-wishes and hugs. We then moved on to the Church grounds where I had the chance to take some beautiful photographs of them with their friends and family. The relaxed and joyful vibe was clear, and we made sure to capture those candid moments that are so precious. Walking Through Ludlow: Portraits with a Scenic Backdrop One of my favorite parts of the day was when Kayleigh and Ryan took a leisurely stroll through the picturesque town of Ludlow. This is where I was able to capture some stunning portraits of them without taking away from time spent with their guests. The scenic beauty of Ludlow, with its charming streets and historic architecture, provided the perfect backdrop for their photos. The couple was able to take in the sights, relax, and enjoy a moment together while I documented the beauty of the day. Kin Kitchen: A Hidden Gem for the Wedding Reception The reception was held at the newly transformed Kin Kitchen in Ludlow , a space that was previously a Cats Protection Charity shop but has since been revamped into a beautiful Mediterranean-inspired oasis. The new owners have truly worked wonders, creating an inviting and exquisite setting for the celebration. The wedding reception took place in their tranquil hidden garden, where friends and family gathered to enjoy delicious food and a relaxed atmosphere. The talented Oscar Teo provided the music, adding to the laid-back yet elegant vibe of the day. It was the perfect spot to celebrate the couple’s love and start their new chapter together. Personal Touches and Lasting Memories Throughout the day, it was clear that Kayleigh and Ryan had infused their personalities into every aspect of their wedding. From the intimate ceremony to the unique reception venue, everything reflected their creativity and love for each other. It was a perfect example of how a wedding doesn’t have to follow a traditional template to be meaningful—it’s all about making it personal and true to who you are as a couple. After the reception, I took home a little keepsake from the day: an earthenware mug I bought from Kin Kitchen, a small yet lasting reminder of such a beautiful day. The Takeaway: Creativity Makes Your Wedding Truly Yours Kayleigh and Ryan’s wedding was proof that with a little creativity and thoughtfulness, you can make your wedding day truly reflective of your personalities. Whether it’s choosing unique locations, incorporating personal touches like flowers and music from friends, or spending time in a town that holds special meaning, every detail can add to the uniqueness of the celebration. Their day was a beautiful blend of tradition, creativity, and relaxed fun—proof that when you plan thoughtfully and stay true to yourselves, your wedding day will be one to remember forever. If you’re looking for a photographer to capture your own meaningful moments, I’d love to chat and help bring your vision to life. Kayleigh & Ryan's Wedding: A Day of Creativity, Relaxation, and Beautiful Moments

As a photographer, I’ve always enjoyed a big sky shot. There’s something special about the simplicity of wide-open spaces and the way they make a scene feel expansive and full of life. What’s even more exciting is that you don’t always need dramatic fluffy clouds or a stunning sunset to make a big sky photo work. In fact, sometimes the beauty lies in the subtleties. One of my favourite shots from this year comes from a wedding at Glewstone Court , where I captured a bride and groom on the edge of a field. The photograph showcases the open sky and the natural beauty of the land, sweeping gently down and then rising again toward the tree line. This composition adds a sense of depth and draws the viewer’s eye across the frame. Finding Unseen Spaces for Unique Shots As a wedding photographer, I’m always looking for those moments and locations that you might not typically see in others' work. It’s these hidden gems that allow me to create something truly unique for my couples. The spot where I took this photograph wasn’t the traditional “go-to” location for a wedding photo, but it was exactly what I was looking for. It’s a little off the beaten path, and the open space, combined with the way the land rises towards the trees, gives the image a sense of movement and flow. What you wouldn’t notice at first glance is the handy little metal plate placed on the ground, which helped to keep the bride's shoes clean and dry. It’s small details like this that make the day easier for my couples - and those details always seem to add an extra layer of depth to a photo when you look back at it later. The Power of Earthy Tones and a Neutral Palette There’s something incredibly powerful about the earthy tones and neutral palette that make this image stand out. The muted greens, browns, and sky blues give the photo a grounded and natural feel, allowing the couple to stand out as the focal point without competing with the background. It’s a simple yet striking composition that, for me, embodies the beauty of nature and the elegance of the moment. The subtlety of this shot is what makes it one of my personal favorites. There’s no need for dramatic colors or lighting here - the beauty lies in the simplicity and the way everything just works together so naturally. The Technical Details: Capturing the Moment As a photographer, getting the technical details right is essential in creating the perfect shot. For this image, I used my Nikon D780 with a Nikkor 24-70mm 2.8G lens at 35mm to give me the perfect focal length to capture the couple and the vast sky around them. I shot at ISO 125, with an aperture of f/6.3, and a shutter speed of 1/200 sec to ensure the right balance of light and detail. To add a bit more light to the scene, I used a single Yongnuo YN560 IV off-camera flash on a stand, positioned to the left of the shot. The flash was set to a low power to gently fill in the shadows and give the couple a bit more pop against the natural surroundings. Big Skies at Glewstone Court Why This Big Sky Shot at Glewstone Court Works for Me What really makes this photo stand out for me, beyond the technical details, is the overall atmosphere it captures. It’s a moment of calm and quiet elegance, where the couple is framed by the beauty of nature, and the simplicity of the composition lets their connection shine through. It’s a testament to how you don’t always need elaborate settings or dramatic lighting to create something memorable. Sometimes, less is more. This shot at Glewstone Court, with its big sky, earthy tones, and subtle details, remains one of my favorite images of the year. It’s a perfect example of how a unique location and thoughtful composition can turn an ordinary moment into something extraordinary. Final Thoughts: Embracing the Beauty of the Ordinary Photography is all about finding beauty in unexpected places. While dramatic skies and sunsets can be stunning, some of the most meaningful moments are found in the simplicity of the everyday. This shot, with its quiet elegance, is proof that sometimes, the most striking images are the ones that allow the natural world to speak for itself. If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who loves to capture moments like this—unposed, natural, and full of meaning—let’s talk. I’d love to help tell your story through beautiful, unique images that reflect who you are and the world around you. The Beauty of Simplicity: A Big Sky Shot at Glewstone Court

It's just after 6pm on the 2nd January and a message request comes in from Geraint asking if I have availability for their wedding for the coming Saturday as their original photographer had unfortunately been taken ill.  We immediately chatted about how I could help and being realistic I said 'I know you'll be inundated with messages from Herefordshire wedding photographers so don't panic, take a good look at options and styles then let me know if you'd like to chat further'. We met up at my home on the Thursday when Alison & Geraint confirmed they'd like me to join them on their wedding day! I don't think I've ever had such a late booking before and initially it felt like a shock to the system as, subconsciously I guess, as a photographer you psych yourself up a little knowing you have a shoot coming up.  On the Thursday we discussed timings and the plan for the day and it soon became apparent that there may not have been as much time set aside at various points to get what they'd like done as perhaps I'd have liked.  We broke down what was needed and how long it would take and came up with a plan ensuring the day flowed and family and friends could catch the bus organised for them at the right time and Alison & Geraint still got the shots they were looking for. St Anna’s Church at Thornbury is a beautiful Norman Church with a solid defensive tower set in stunning views beside the old Church House and was the perfect spot for a wedding.  Due to the Normans not being too hot on carpark considerations Alison & Geraint's guests were dropped off by coach having left their cars at Green Farm in Felton where the reception was to take place. The Revd Elizabeth Sidwell took the ceremony that included heart felt readings from friends and family with the bride and groom clearly on top of the world.  The temperature had dropped significantly when we came out of the church so it was a speedy confetti aisle then, as the guests made their way to the waiting transport, Alison & Geraint took the opportunity to have photos in and around the Church. In my view being a wedding photographer is as much about management of the day as it is about taking photographs and on arrival at Green Farm we needed to take advantage of the little daylight we had left and cracked straight on with the requested group photos before everyone became too settled.  With these quickly done Alison & Geraint remained with me for portraits as the sun began to set and their guests were invited to take their seats for the wedding breakfast. Alison & Geraint had expressed a wish to have photographs with the sunset in the gazebo at Green Farm and so I planned out the shot while food was served. Unknown to the majority was the fact they had a singing waiter in their midst so I liaised with him to ensure stealing the bride and groom away for five minutes wouldn't affect anything and set the flash up ready. With the main course finished and the sunset perfect we got the shots and Alison & Geraint sat back down unaware that a waiter was due to have a nasty accident with a tray!  I'd already planned for the unknown so had off camera flash set up around the room ready for the singing waiter and it also lent itself well to the speeches shortly after. The speeches naturally moved into cake cutting, the room was turned around and their DJ Richie Palmer set up ready for the first dance.  Naturally enough couples are full of smiles on their wedding day but I have to say the way Alison and Geraint held each others' gaze throughout was a joy to see and their first dance was no exception.  With the first dance finished the dance floor filled until the evening food was served at which point there was a request for photographs of the stag party with cigars and my time with Alison & Geraint was complete. Thank you to all who made me feel so welcome and to those who expressed gratitude that I'd been able to help out, it was a real joy to spend the day with you and be part of Alison & Geraint's story.   Russell

I am delighted to announce that I'll be exhibiting at The Shack Revolution 's Wedding Fair in central Hereford on Sunday 14th April. The Shack Revolution is an exciting urban, industrial Wedding venue in the heart of Hereford and I'm really pleased to have a number of wedding dates booked in there throughout the year. A former warehouse that some out there may remember as once upon a time being The Dinosaur Market, The Shack Revolution have transformed it into a beautiful contemporary space with a wealth of photographic options with Hereford city centre on the doorstep. If you're in the process of planning for your wedding it'll be a fantastic day, come along and say hello at the Shack Revolution. The fair runs from 11am through to 3pm and will have a wealth of suppliers there to browse and chat with R

In a world where weddings can often feel overwhelming, the idea of eloping has become an increasingly popular choice for couples seeking a more intimate and personal celebration. If you're dreaming of a secluded, romantic escape, Treeopia offers an unparalleled experience. Nestled within 4 acres of private grounds, Treeopia features two luxurious treehouses that provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable elopement. The Allure of Eloping: A Private and Personal Celebration Eloping allows you to focus on what truly matters—your love for each other. Treeopia takes this experience to another level, offering complete privacy and seclusion in a breathtaking natural setting. With only two treehouses on the property, you can be assured that your special day will be intimate and free from distractions. The serene surroundings and luxury accommodations create an atmosphere of romance and tranquility, making it an ideal location for couples who want to escape the hustle and bustle of traditional weddings. Luxury in Nature: The Treeopia Experience Each treehouse at Treeopia is designed to blend luxury with the natural beauty of the surroundings. From the moment you arrive, you'll be captivated by the attention to detail—from the cozy, yet elegant interiors to the stunning views of the surrounding woodland. Imagine exchanging vows on your private deck, surrounded by nothing but the sounds of nature. Afterward, you can enjoy a candlelit dinner, soak in an outdoor hot tub, or simply relax in the comfort of your treehouse, knowing that you have the entire property to yourselves. Intimacy and Seclusion: A Haven for Romance Treeopia’s secluded setting provides the perfect backdrop for your elopement. The 4 acres of private grounds ensure that you and your partner can enjoy uninterrupted time together, whether you’re exploring the woodland trails or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The intimacy of this setting allows you to connect on a deeper level, creating memories that will last a lifetime. With no schedules to follow or guests to entertain, you can fully immerse yourselves in the experience and truly enjoy each other’s company. An Unforgettable Elopement at Treeopia Treeopia offers more than just a place to stay—it provides an experience that is tailored to your needs and desires. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, you’ll find it here. The treehouses are equipped with modern amenities, ensuring that your stay is as comfortable as it is romantic. The exclusivity and luxury of Treeopia make it an ideal choice for couples who want their elopement to be both unique and deeply personal. How to Plan Your Elopement to Treeopia Planning your elopement to Treeopia is simple and stress-free. With only two treehouses on the property, it’s essential to book well in advance to secure your preferred dates. Once booked, you can work with the Treeopia team to personalize your experience, whether that means arranging for a private chef, booking a local photographer, or planning a special surprise for your partner. Every detail can be customized to create the perfect romantic getaway. Conclusion: Start Your Forever at Treeopia Eloping to Treeopia is more than just a wedding day—it’s the beginning of a beautiful adventure. The combination of luxury, privacy, and natural beauty makes Treeopia the ultimate destination for couples looking to celebrate their love in a unique and intimate way. If you’re ready to start your forever in a place that feels like a fairy tale, Treeopia is waiting for you. Book your elopement today and discover why this hidden gem is the perfect setting for your most special moments

For Ellen & Laurence, Three Cliffs Bay on the Gower Peninsula is more than a stunning location - it’s a place full of personal meaning. When it came time to capture their engagement photos, it was the obvious choice. We headed there recently, joined by their dog, who won’t be at the wedding. Including her in the session was a thoughtful touch, making the photos even more personal. Engagement sessions are a fantastic way for me to get to know couples ahead of their big day. They’re also an opportunity to explore incredible locations I might not otherwise visit - and Three Cliffs Bay was no exception. A Gem of the Gower Peninsula Three Cliffs Bay is one of the most iconic spots on the Gower Peninsula. Known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, sandy beaches, and sweeping views, it’s a haven for photographers, walkers, and nature lovers. The bay gets its name from the three distinct peaks of rock jutting out into the sea, creating a striking silhouette against the horizon. The area is part of a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and it’s easy to see why. Beyond the beach, you’ll find winding coastal paths, wildflowers, and salt marshes. The ruins of Pennard Castle, perched on the hill overlooking the bay, add a touch of history to the scenery. It’s the perfect mix of natural drama and serene beauty, making it an ideal backdrop for engagement photos. Capturing the Moment After meeting in the National Trust car park, we walked down to the bay, chatting along the way. The path itself offers plenty of photo opportunities, with views opening up to the sea as you descend. The weather was calm and grey - ideal for soft, flattering light - and a welcome change after we’d had to reschedule twice due to storms! Once at the beach, we made the most of the stunning surroundings. From wide shots featuring the cliffs to close-ups of Ellen & Laurence laughing together, the natural beauty of the location added depth and character to their photos. Their dog stole the show at times, running along the sand and adding a playful energy to the session. Looking Ahead Ellen & Laurence’s wedding at Glewstone Court in March is just around the corner, and I’m already looking forward to documenting their day. These engagement photos not only capture their connection but also serve as a timeless reminder of a place that means so much to them. Three Cliffs Bay is a place where love and nature come together seamlessly. Whether you’re looking for engagement photos or simply want to celebrate a special moment, it’s a location that never fails to impress. If this sounds like your kind of adventure, let’s talk about how we can create your perfect session.

I recently photographed a summer wedding at The Barn at Drovers , and it summed up everything I enjoy about working at this venue. It’s a place with plenty of character, open space, and a setting that naturally lends itself to relaxed photography — no need for forced poses or big productions. Before the wedding, I spent an evening with the couple for their engagement session. They chose a quiet spot near home, close to sunset, which suited them perfectly. Nothing overly staged — just a walk, some conversation, and a chance for them to get used to the camera without feeling like they were “performing.” Those sessions always help the wedding day run more smoothly, and this was no exception. Leigh & Tom | sunset in the Golden Valley These images set the tone for the wedding — easygoing, outdoorsy, and very them. Why Drovers Works So Well The Barn at Drovers is one of those venues that doesn’t need much explanation if you’ve ever visited. It has the kind of layout and light that make photographing a wedding straightforward in the best way. A few things always stand out: The Barn at Drovers bathed in summer sun The barns have a natural warmth to them — wood, stone, open areas. There’s space to spread out, so guests aren’t crammed into one spot all day. The light is consistently good, which makes a huge difference. You can walk a few steps and find a completely different backdrop — fields, gardens, woodland, farm buildings. It’s easy for couples and guests travelling from around Herefordshire or the wider West Midlands. It’s a venue that feels lived-in and real, not dressed up to look rustic. That makes all the difference in photos. The Wedding Day The summer weather held, which meant the couple were able to hold their wedding outdoors in the woodland area. The couple and guests enjoyed a slow walk from the ceremony to the reception with confetti in the meadow and the opportunity to stop and chat with the ponies, ducks and alpacas. Woodland ceremony at The Barn at Drovers The reception carried that same relaxed feel with speeches taking place outside with friends and family sat on bales and sofas. Relaxed speeches during the reception And as always, the little details added plenty to the story: handmade signs, unfussy table settings, seasonal flowers, and touches that reflected the couple rather than a Pinterest board. Planning a Wedding at Drovers? A few things that tend to help: Visit around the same time of day as your ceremony — the light will tell you a lot. Use the barn’s features rather than hiding them. Have a plan for weather, even in summer — it’s still Herefordshire. Give yourself time for photos in different parts of the venue. Share a rough plan with your photographer, but don’t get hung up on lists. The real moments happen between the planned ones. Working Together Group photos don't need to be stuffy! My approach is simple: keep things natural, keep things moving, and blend into the day so people forget about the camera. Engagement sessions help with that — they take the pressure off the wedding day and mean we’re not strangers when the morning arrives. Working regularly at Drovers means I know where the good light falls, where to take a couple for a breather, and how the day usually flows there. All of that helps keep things relaxed and gives you photos that feel true to your day, not a version of someone else’s. Leith & Tom | The Barn at Drovers in Herefordshire