What is your most memorable wedding?
I was photographing a really lovely wedding in the South-West and we were doing the couple shots in which I asked the bride and groom to walk towards me so we could get some really lovely natural moving shots. Somehow I had forgotten that there was a fountain behind me and I walked straight into it and fell into the water! Both cameras were safe, but my leg was not. Now I always bring a spare pair of trousers with me! I am still waiting for the clip to be put on 'You've Been Framed!'. Anything to get that shot!
Describe your style in 5 adjectives.
Relaxed, natural, unobtrusive, creative and uncontrived.
What about your business are you most proud of?
In July 2017 I left my retail job and took the plunge into starting my own business. I didn't know how it was going to go, if I was going to get any interest or if I would have to go back to a retail job. Thanks to the website and advertising knowledge of my wonderful boyfriend, I now have over 50 weddings for 2019 and over 50 weddings for 2020.
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Remember to take time out - I know there is that constant need to plan, plan, plan but even just an evening of watching TV or going for a walk will do you wonders! When starting to plan the wedding, give yourself enough time to plan your wedding and remember to allocate time for you both to be together and relax. I always find that a good ol' weekly plan helps me plan when I'm going to do work, and when I can chill out.
What is your favourite personal touch you have seen at a wedding?
I love it when couples create 'remembrance tables' at their weddings for their loved ones that couldn't be at the wedding. It is just such a lovely sentiment and it is so important to remember the family and friends that are still with us, even if they aren't physically at the wedding.
Describe your typical process with a couple.
When a wedding enquiry is sent to me, I will talk through the packages I offer and will arrange a consultation with the couple so we can meet in person and talk photography. With couples that are further afield I will offer a Skype consultation. After the consultation, I will send the couple over the notes from the consultation, and a copy of the contract. If the couple is happy and wants to go ahead, then the deposit is paid and contract is personalised for that couple. Then a venue visit is arranged, and any other meetings that may need to be had before the day are arranged.
What is the No. 1 photo that you think every couple should take?
Confetti! I LOVE the confetti shots at a wedding - they are always so elegant and fun!
What is the most original photo you’ve been asked to take at a wedding?
Hmm.. this is a good question! I love it when couples ask if we can leave the venue and go to a place that means something to them, like by the beach or a certain walk. This makes the pictures much more special for them, and they get a bit of 'time-out' from the day!
What do you recommend for a rainy day wedding?
Clear umbrellas is a MUST - I always bring a couple with me just in case! If it's raining on your day, we can go out in the rain and take some really natural and funny shots of you and your friends.
Describe how you got into photography.
My dad used to be a wedding photographer, and so when I began studying Photography at A Level, he gave me his old film camera and this allowed me to learn how to use a camera manually. Now I have a degree in Photography and I am able to do a job that I love.