Frequently Asked Questions


Just click on the questions below to see the answers to some common questions.

Why do you do what you do?

I just love it – it’s that simple. I’m so fortunate to be able to photograph weddings for a living – I can’t think of any other job I could do which gives so much creative freedom, to see so much happiness and to meet so many cool people. If I wasn’t a wedding photographer I’d want to be one!

Do you need to meet us first?

Not at all. I’m delighted to of course if you’d find it useful and would like to see more recent examples, sample albums etc, but if you’d like to just go ahead and book that’s absolutely fine. Plenty of my couples live a fair distance away so it’s not always practical – I’m also very happy to Skype or just have a good long chat over the phone.

Once we’ve decided to book you, what happens next?

You’ll secure your date with a deposit which can be paid by bank transfer. I’ll then prepare and send out the contracts so that you have everything in writing (that will also serve as a paper receipt for your deposit).

How quickly will we receive our photos?

I’ll get a little preview selection to you within 48 hours of the wedding (aiming to catch you before you head off on your honeymoon) so you have something to share around straight away. The full, finished set will usually be in your gallery within 3 weeks.

Do you do video?

Nope, I concentrate entirely on still photography. But I can definitely put forward some names of great videographers I’ve worked with in the past, or help you find the right one for your day.

What time will you arrive on the day?

I usually aim to cover the latter part of the prep – at least an hour or so – before I head on a little before you to the ceremony venue.

Will you visit the venue beforehand?

If there’s a particular reason why it might be useful and if I haven’t been there before I may arrange a visit, but through several years’ experience I’ve found that it’s rarely that necessary for the way that I like to photograph a wedding day.

Do you need feeding?

It’s a long day so I’ll need to eat something, but I certainly don’t insist that you’re the ones to feed me. If something is available for me at the venue it’s definitely very much appreciated, but if not it’s not a problem and I can bring something with me. Please just let me know in advance so that I can plan accordingly.

Can we have all the unedited files?

The photos I provide have all been fully edited and processed, and as part of that I remove duplicates, unflattering shots, ones with eyes closed or which simply didn’t work for some reason. I don’t provide unedited photos; you’ll receive a fully finished body of work.

Can you hold the date for us?

Only once a deposit has been received I’m afraid. Until then it’s first-come, first-served (but I’ll always try to be as open as I can and let you know if someone else is also interested in your date).

Do you cover shorter weddings?

I’m happy to offer reduced coverage options for short-notice bookings when I happen to be available. That would usually be once we’re within a few weeks of the date of your wedding – feel free to drop me a line to check my availability.

How many photos will we get?

In your contract I guarantee you a minimum of 300 unique, fully finished and print-ready photos. In practice you’ll get a fair few more than that – there’s no limit to the number I’ll take or provide; it just depends on what happens on the day.

What gear do you use?

I’m a Canon guy. I generally have two full-frame cameras on me at any time, with two different lenses set up so that I can chop and change quickly.

What happens if you’re ill (or broken) on the day?

Well, I’m happy to say that since covering my first wedding in 2010 it hasn’t happened yet, and it will take a lot to prevent me from photographing your wedding – I once shot one with two broken ribs – but of course things can occasionally go wrong. Don’t worry – I’ve prepared for this, just in case. As well as all my insurances, I am involved in various wedding photography networks both locally and across the UK and every so often the call does go out for some help; I would be able to provide you with a replacement, and someone who still fitted with my own style.

Can you recommend a band / florist / celebrant..?

Most likely. The photographer probably sees more of each wedding day than just about any other individual, and I’ve come across plenty of superb suppliers and entertainers over the years. Let me know what you’re after and I’ll tell you if anyone springs to mind.

Why might we want a second photographer?

It could be one of several reasons: covering both the bridal prep and the groom prep at different locations; ensuring loads of coverage at a large wedding with lots of guests; having extra guest photos during the reception if you wanted to head off-site for your couple photos. Or perhaps you simply want as many photos of your day as you can get your hands on. I can provide a second photographer on either a full-day or half-day basis.

What do you do before the big day?

As the date approaches I’ll send through a little guide I’ve put together explaining in more detail how I’ll approach things on the day, along with a photo checklist for you to complete so that you can tell me everything you want from your end? We’ll catch up on the phone a day or two beforehand as well, just for a final run-through. And I’m always at your disposal if you’d like to call at any time with any questions or to bounce ideas off me – it’s all part of the service.

What about the group shots?

You can have as many or as few of these as you like, but I tend to recommend a maximum of 8 formal family groups; that usually gives most couples the combinations they wanted, and means that we can get back to capturing loads of wonderful candid photos of everyone enjoying the celebrations. It’s rare that I’ll take more than about 20-25 minutes on that part of the day.

What insurance cover do you have?

’m fully insured for both public liability and professional indemnity. Venues occasionally require to see certificates as evidence – that’s no problem at all, please just ask them to drop me a line. I also carry a whole load of backup camera gear with me on the day; so many cameras and lenses!

What happens if it rains?

Bad weather can make for fantastic photos – embrace it! Don’t worry, I won’t be dragging you outside to get drenched or stand you in puddles but there are always ways and means. If we can be a little flexible with times for things like the couple portraits we can seize opportunities as they present themselves, and don’t underestimate the indoor photo opportunities at your venue either.

How do we go about choosing photos for our album?

I’ll send you a guide which goes into much more detail, but in essence I will start to design the proofs around the key images which you have told me you want used as the centrepieces to your album. You are consulted at every stage, and the finished album will be completely tailored to your own tastes and preferences. Nothing goes to print until you are 100% and give it the final nod.



Fingers crossed I’ve covered most of the questions you might have had, but if there’s anything else at all, no matter how big or small, please just give me a call or drop me a line…

CONTACT ME