Each part of a wedding calls for its own kind of magic. Sometimes I step forward, sometimes I step back. And I mix different genres of photography to tell your unique story. In this post, I’ll walk you through how I bring it all together to capture your day respectfully and beautifully.
I spy with my wedding photographer’s eye…
The preparations
Real life, but on your wedding day
It’s more than photos of makeup and ties. It’s a hello hug, kids squabbling over the last croissant, happy tears when you open those surprise earrings from your partner, dad singing to his first grandchild, granny laughing so much she spills the champagne … and your dog is the only one to strike a pose.
I’ll work in the background, totally around you, and capture all the good stuff just as it happens. Nothing staged, no interruptions. Just you, your loved ones, and the memories to show for it.
“Sarah’s calm presence is the perfect tonic for a nervous bride and groom.” Hugo & Laura Day
The main event
Discreet yet deeply intimate
The heart of your wedding day; where emotions run deep and everything else fades away. My approach is subtle but fully present, so you get an honest reflection of this milestone moment, captured with the gentleness and respect it deserves.
The arrivals. The tender reunions of old friends, the eager anticipation in your partner’s eyes, playful little ones adding their own mischief to the day… I’ll immortalise it all.
The ceremony. The vows, the little sideways glances, the triumph after the stillness… My role is to freeze those sacred seconds, with the utmost discretion. No distraction, no fuss – just a sensitive soul, an artist’s eye, and a quiet presence to preserve the mood.
The exit. When you burst out as newlyweds, into a cloud of confetti and happy chaos, I’ll capture whatever my heart and eyes see – parents looking proud, laughter ringing out, your loved ones engulfing you with heartfelt hugs… Nothing staged – just pure joy.
Because these aren’t photos. They’re love and legacy kept alive to be felt again and again.
“Sarah caught us holding hands under the hymn book. Since we avoid public affection, that little moment was such an important part of our day. It was a small detail, but I’m so thrilled to have that picture and relive the feeling of love and togetherness it brings.” Sarah & Robert
The group photos
From chore to cherished
For most of my couples, a few timeless group photos are a must-have. Because they capture a rare moment where all your favourite people are together to celebrate a milestone in your family history.
But you’ve probably heard some horror stories. And sure, group photos can be a chore to endure. But they can also be a fun, enriching, heartwarming part of your day. What makes the difference? A carefully curated list and a smooth process (which we’ll nail down in our planning meeting).
And with just a bit of space and time, I can capture those fleeting never-to-be-repeated interactions – like your gran congratulating you and admiring your outfit – in-between the planned photos.
“The group photos ran like clockwork, and we felt in very capable hands.” Anna & Rob
The portraits
Less photoshoot, more you
These won’t be your typical posed wedding portraits. Nope. They’ll match the relaxed tone of your day.
These are the kinds of portraits that look natural because they are natural – just two people enjoying time out together, with the added bonus of stunning photos to show for it. Photos that reflect your unique chemistry – sharing a quiet moment, loved up, or doubled over with laughter.
We’ll likely break it up into two or three short sessions and slot them into little pockets of downtime – like while your guests find their seats for dinner or while the band soundchecks – to give you variety without missing your own wedding.
“Even though Sarah was there taking photos of us, we appreciated that time and felt like it was ours.” Alex & Darren
The reception
You make the magic, I capture it
You didn’t invite all your family and friends only to spend the day posing for pictures. So whatever your reception involves – drinks, dinner, speeches, cake cutting, and party … or your own personal take – I’ll candidly capture the action and atmosphere without cramping your style.
I have three guiding principles:
1/ Give you space … but also pay attention and notice if you need a reassuring “You’ve got this!” wink when you wonder how to cut the cake.
2/ Go with the flow. Every wedding – and guest – has its own energy, and I’ll tune my spidey senses into that to fit in and make sure everyone feels relaxed with the camera around. That might mean being up close when it’s lively and further away for privacy when the mood softens.
3/ Interrupt only (and politely!) when it’s time for the group photos or portraits. But you’re welcome to interrupt me at any time – I’m all ears (and camera lenses) if there’s something you’d like.
Oh, and when you eat, I’ll eat. Because no-one needs photos mid-bite – or a hangry photographer. But I’ll still capture the essence of it all – everyone wildly waving their napkins as you make your victory parade into dinner, people deep in conversation before the food is served, your nominated chefs carving the roast, the communal joy of sharing platters… And if there’s a game of ‘After Eight’ on the go, you know I’m capturing those chocolate-covered faces.
“You captured it perfectly and we have had so many compliments from friends and family, not only about the photographs but also about how lovely you were!” Carly & Ben
The dancing
Lived in the moment, felt forever
Giving 100% to the Hora? Being bound together with streamers? Embracing a riotous routine? Whatever your first dance looks like, I’ll capture it exactly as it happens. And you can end your photographs here, or upgrade your Uptown Funk to capture the party too.
This is (probably) the only part of your day you’ll see me use artificial light, like flash. But don’t worry – it’s just to help the camera see; I’ll keep the ambience you intend. Your guests’ wild moves and wide-eyed expressions are the only special effects we need.
“Our dads had this impromptu dance-off and Sarah caught these amazing moments!” Emily & Chris
The details
Every symbolic detail, beautifully saved
To some, decor and details are “things.” But to you and me, they’re pieces of your story. You didn’t just throw together a few Pinterest trends – you thoughtfully and meticulously curated every touch to create a specific atmosphere and reflect who you are as a couple. And I’m here to make sure every bit of your effort is lovingly preserved.
From the grand to the tiny, the magpie in me will spot – and lovingly capture – all your stylish and sentimental touches. The family tiara that’s graced generations, the roses and thistles that symbolise your English-Scottish roots, the locket filled with dried bluebell petals from your grandparents’ garden… I’ll be there, quietly swooning and capturing all of it.
“We love that Sarah captured all the details – we spent so much time thinking about and sorting out all the little things and it’s great that they’re all recorded so beautifully so we’ll never forget them.” Emily & Stuart
