S.G Mark Photography

Royal Botanic Gardens in Autumn. Amazing couple, fun guests, brilliant atmosphere, donut tower, the perfect sunset and amazing lighting.

Natural, candid, romantic, creative & relaxed.

That my couples all tell me that having me as their photographer was just like having a family friend at their wedding.

It's tempting to plan loads of things for your day, but it's also important that you don't feel rushed or that you aren't full immersed in your celebrations. Also know when sunset is, because I'll always be up for some golden hour shots if I've not already suggested them!

One of my brides had dahlia's in her bouquet - because her late father grew dahlia's in their garden at home. Everyone was in tears when we found out.

Let's chat first - we need to get to know each other a bit to find out if we'll work well together and I'll capture the day in the style that works for you. There's loads of photographers out there, so it's important that we gel and "get" each other. If I've not covered your venue before, I'll pop by a few months before - and you're welcome to join if you can. We'll have a catch up call / zoom 2 months or so before your day and I'll invite you to create a group shot list. We'll check in regularly in the weeks before, and I'll always be available to answer any last minute questions. I'll arrive early on the day and get to work knowing your full day's schedule inside out. From morning prep to the evening dances I'll be predominantly on candid mode, but we can include family formals which take around 15-20 mins. I'll also take you guys out for some couples shots during your drinks reception and again at sunset and twilight if you like. After your wedding, I'll get to work on the editing. Typically this takes 4-6 weeks, but in summer months it can be more like 8. You'll get a password protected online gallery to share with your friends & family, and if you've ordered an album or other extras then we can meet to discuss your personalisation and design options.

First Looks - whether that's with a parent or each other. With parents, it's always great to catch that moment when your mum or dad sees you in your dress or kilt for the first time. First Looks between partners can either be done privately before the ceremony, but I also love catching that moment when a couple sees each other for the first time at the start of the ceremony. There's only one opportunity to capture this moment - and I love emotion of it all. Also golden hour photos - the lighting is *chefs kiss*

Usually the creative process is driven by myself - and the lighting / weather conditions. Honestly, every wedding does feel original - it's the couple who make the venue and photos unique.

Get a brolly! Sometimes a little rain can totally make your photos. The light that comes just after a rain shower is particularly beautiful - there's rainbows, lovely reflections in puddles and water droplets on flagstones patios. If it's torrential rain though, then let's go to a beautiful staircase at your venue, a lovely bay window for natural lighting - there's always somewhere indoors where we can still take great photos.

I picked up a camera when I was a child. My dad was always the photographer, so I learned the basics from him when I was very young. It feels very unnatural not to take my camera with me when I leave the house!