Mark Holmes Photography

Documentary Wedding Photography Across Cambridgeshire

I'm Mark Holmes - a wedding and portrait photographer based in St Ives, covering Cambridge, Newmarket, Huntingdon, Ely, and beyond. I've been photographing weddings since 2010, and in that time I've learned that the best images come when people are relaxed, enjoying themselves, and not being told what to do every five minutes.

My approach is documentary-led. I capture the day as it happens - the nerves, the belly laughs, the speeches, the dance floor. When you need direction, I'll step in. When you don't, I'll step back. Either way, you get the images you'll want to keep forever, without ever feeling like you spent the day performing for a camera.

What You Can Expect

I shoot on the Sony A9III - one of the most advanced cameras available, used by Olympic sports photographers. It's completely silent, meaning I can shoot during your vows without a single click. Combined with 15 years of experience in difficult lighting conditions, it means I can work in dark barns, candlelit rooms, and late evening receptions without flash changing the feel of the room.

I'm not the photographer who'll be noisy and overly assertive on your wedding day. But I'm not a passenger either. I'll fix a buttonhole before the ceremony. I'll spot the shot before it happens. I'll herd the group shots so they're done in 30 minutes. And at some point, I'll sneak you both away for fifteen minutes of quiet, which most couples tell me ends up being their favourite part of the day.

The Practical Stuff

All collections include your full set of high-resolution digital images, printing rights, and a private online gallery to share with friends and family. I offer three coverage options:

• The Highlights (5 hours) - £1,200
• The Full Day (8 hours) - £1,800
• Complete Story (10 hours) - £2,000

I typically cover a 48-hour preview turnaround, with your full edited gallery delivered within four to six weeks.

A Bit About Me

When I'm not behind a camera, I start my day deep in the rabbit hole of barista-style coffee (it's borderline ridiculous at this point), train in Muay Thai every week, and share my house with three dogs who range comically in size from a Chihuahua to a Bullmastiff-cross-Labrador.

I've been fortunate enough to see my work in The Times and Weddings & Honeymoons Magazine, and I've picked up awards including Commercial Photographer of the Year and recognition from the LUXlife Global Wedding Awards. They're nice to have on the shelf - but my favourite feedback is the WhatsApp from a couple saying I made their day easier and they love their photos.

If that sounds like what you're looking for, drop me a message. I'd love to hear about your plans.