Timeless storytelling through thoughtful photography.
How much direction should a wedding photographer give?
Most couples worry about feeling awkward or over-posed on their wedding day. My approach focuses on light direction rather than rigid posing, allowing your natural dynamic to lead the way. By finding the right light and giving you space to breathe, I capture images that look elevated but feel like the real version of you.
How much direction should a wedding photographer give?
One of the most frequent things I hear from couples is that they are not natural in front of the camera. There is a fear that a photographer will spend the day barking orders or twisting limbs into uncomfortable positions. My job is to make sure that doesn’t happen, while still ensuring you look your best.
The Documentary Majority
For the vast majority of your wedding day, I give zero direction. During the preparations, the ceremony, and the reception, I am an observer. I use my experience to anticipate where the best light is and where the emotion is likely to happen. I move around the edges of the room to capture honest moments as they occur. If I am doing my job correctly, you should forget I am there for most of the day.
Light Direction for Portraits
When it comes time for your portraits, I move from being an observer to a gentle guide. I don’t believe in stiff, traditional posing because it rarely looks like the people I am photographing. Instead, I use light direction. I might suggest you walk toward a certain patch of light or stand by a particular stone wall in the Cotswold landscape.
Once you are in the right spot, I give you something to do rather than a way to stand. I might ask you to walk together or share a quiet conversation. This creates movement and interaction, which helps the camera capture a genuine connection rather than a static pose.
The Role of Group Photos
Group photos are the one time of the day where clear, firm direction is a benefit. I take a matter-of-fact approach here to keep things moving. I guide your guests into well-composed groups so that everyone looks their best and the process remains efficient. I want your family to feel looked after and respected, but I also want to get you back to your party as quickly as possible.
Confidence Through Preparation
Much of the comfort you feel on the day comes from the work we do before the wedding. We talk about what you are comfortable with and what you dislike. This means that when I do offer a suggestion on the day, you can trust that it is intended to make you look relaxed and natural.
My aim is for you to look at your wedding gallery and recognize yourselves. You should see the way you actually laugh and the way you actually hold each other, just with the benefit of professional light and a refined composition.
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