Client Guide

Documentary vs. Editorial wedding photography: which one actually tells your story?

The difference is intervention. Documentary photography captures the truth of what is happening without direction, while Editorial photography creates a polished, magazine-worthy version of what could be. Most high-end weddings require a ‘Hybrid’ approach, using a documentary lens for raw emotion and an editorial eye for your portraits and styling.

Documentary wedding photo of couple on Painswick Beacon to show editorial documentary photography style.

What happens to our wedding photos if the photographer gets sick or their camera fails?

I use a dual-slot camera system that writes your images to two cards simultaneously, backed up by a double-layer cloud and physical server workflow. In the rare event of an emergency, I am part of a professional network of high-end UK photographers to ensure your day is covered without a drop in quality.

Candid wedding photo to emphasise importance of preserving memories with backup cameras, storage, and a network of photographers.

When is the best week to book a maternity photoshoot for the best ‘bump’ shape?

I usually recommend scheduling your maternity session between 28 and 34 weeks. This is the ‘sweet spot’ where your bump is beautifully defined, but you’re still moving comfortably. Every body is different, so we focus on when you feel most like you. Energetic and beautiful, not exhausted.

Photo of maternity couple on Painswick Beacon to show a 30-week baby bump is perfect for a photoshoot.

What does a wedding photographer actually do all day?

If I’m doing my job well, you’ll hardly notice I’m there. And yet, I’m working every second to protect your experience. From finding the quiet light in a morning dressing room to being the calm voice during family portraits, my day is spent balancing the technical art of photography with the human art of being present and social.

Black and white wedding photo of couple during first dance to show what a photographer actually does during a wedding

What does a wedding photographer do after the wedding day is over?

To a couple, the wedding day is a whirlwind of emotion. To a photographer, it is a high-stakes technical assignment. Once I leave the venue, the focus shifts from capturing the moment to protecting the data and refining the story. This process is deliberate and follows a specific professional sequence.

Black and white professionally edited wedding photo showing a couple dancing in a ballroom shows post production after the wedding.

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.

Candid wedding photo of a bride and her father looking at each other smiling, showing a photographer can give gentle direction to achieve a candid photo.

How do I prepare a toddler for an outdoor family photoshoot without a meltdown?

The secret to a stress-free session is to stop asking your child to perform. By turning the photoshoot into a ‘structured playdate’, by focusing on movement, games, and genuine connection, we bypass the pressure to stand and smile that causes meltdowns. My goal is to capture your child’s personality, not just their ‘cheese’ smile.

Two toddler siblings hugging and laughing at crickley hill family photoshoot to show that photography should be fun for children so they won't have a meltdown.

Dressing for the Great Outdoors: What to wear for your outdoor family session

The best outdoor photos happen when you feel at home in nature. Instead of dressing ‘up,’ we dress to complement the landscape. Think earthy tones, comfortable layers, and fabrics that move with the wind. My goal is for you to look like you belong in the scenery and for your outfits to look and feel comfortable, curated, and timeless.

High end family photo showing a couple, their baby and a dalmatian at crickley hill, showing their outfits complement each other without being too matchy.

Beyond the shutter: what are you actually paying for when you book a wedding photographer?

A wedding is a live event with zero ‘do-overs,’ and my pricing reflects the rigor required to protect that. Between £1,600 and £2,100, you are investing in a journalistic workflow that prioritises data security, professional-grade low-light optics, and the forty-plus hours of hand-editing it takes to turn raw frames into a family heritage. It’s about the peace of mind that comes from hiring a professional who treats your wedding both as a fulltime job as well as with love and respect.

High end colourful asian wedding photo in the cotswolds, showing a bride getting out of the wedding car, helped by her mother to show high quality wedding photography that costs £2000+ in the UK.

How do I choose a photographer who captures ‘feeling’ instead of just ‘award-winning shots’ for their portfolio?

A portfolio of award-winning shots often tells you more about a photographer’s technical skill than their ability to tell your story. To find a photographer who captures feeling, you need to look for consistency in the unposed reality of a wedding day. It is about finding a person who values the truth of your day over the perfection of their own portfolio.

Photographer who captures 'feeling' instead of just 'award-winning shots' for their portfolio, showing wedding guests laughing out loud.

How do I find a wedding photographer who actually cares?

Most wedding photography has become a high-volume transaction where the couple is a ‘date on a calendar.’ To ensure your wedding doesn’t feel like a business deal, look for a photographer who prioritises relational investment over standardised workflows. If the enthusiasm feels scripted, the photos will too.

Photographer who captures 'feeling' instead of just 'award-winning shots' for their portfolio, showing wedding guests laughing out loud.