SHOWCASE | MY FAVOURITE WEDDING IMAGES OF 2023


Welcome to a little blog post sharing some of my favourite wedding photos from 2023.

These natural, candid wedding images may not be the most technically perfect, nor are they necessarily the very best I’ve taken this year. Some might be missing one of the three magic ingredients that often make an award-winning photo—light, composition, or moment—but each one is an image I truly love.

For me, these pictures go beyond the ‘usual’ wedding photographs, capturing the real moments and emotions that unfold naturally throughout the day.

PS: They’re in no particular order!


THE CONFETTI SHOT OF THE YEAR

bride and groom getting covered in confetti after their wedding ceremony

This is hands down one of my all-time favourite wedding confetti photos—it’s even the first image you see when you land on my wedding photography homepage, and I think you’ll see why.

There are two big reasons I love this shot.

First, the confetti is perfect—plenty of it, filling the frame with colour and energy. There’s nothing more underwhelming than a confetti moment with just a few sad flakes drifting down. I always tell my couples to buy what they think is enough confetti… and then double it. This image proves exactly why that’s such good advice.

Second, it’s the moment Cherie completely let go—probably for the first time that day—and just embraced it. The joy, the movement, the laughter… this is exactly what a wedding confetti photo should feel like.

To see more images from this Hemswell Court wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G Settings: ISO125 | F4 | 1/1000


REASSURANCE

Dad puts his hand on his sons shoulder during an emotional moment at a Lincoln wedding

One of the things I’m always watching for as a wedding photographer is touch—the reassuring hand between old friends, a gentle squeeze during an emotional moment, or a quick touch that says more than words ever could.

This image captures exactly that—a quiet, heartfelt moment between Rick and his dad during the wedding of Sarah and Rick. While Sarah was sharing a slow dance with her father, Rick and his dad had their own private exchange, full of unspoken emotion.

It’s moments like this that make documentary wedding photography so powerful—those unscripted connections that tell the real story of a wedding day.

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 50mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO125 | F1.4 | 1/320


THE WEDDING GARDEN GAMES

A wedding guest is playing Jenga whilst holding a glass of wedding Prosecco

I love capturing guests enjoying wedding garden games—they’re such a great way to bring laughter, energy, and personality into your wedding photos. If your venue allows it and you have them, I’d always encourage you to get those garden games out!

This shot is one of my favourites from early in 2023. The look on her face as she pulls a Jenga piece from right at the bottom—while expertly holding a glass of prosecco in her other hand—says it all. She’s clearly a seasoned pro at this game!

To see more images from this The Hall Barns wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A9ii Lens: Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G Settings: ISO160 | F4 | 1/1000


THE RAINY ARRIVAL

bride arrives for her wedding surrounded by umbrellas

The summer of 2023 was one of the wettest I can remember—July had only four rain-free days! But a little rain never stopped my couples from enjoying their wedding day.

This candid wedding photo was taken as Olivia arrived at the registry office, with her dad and stepmum doing their best to shield her from the downpour.

I love knowing this is a truly unique wedding image. Why? Because very few photographers use a 20mm lens for wedding photography, and even fewer would capture this exact composition and fleeting moment. It’s the kind of shot you’ll never see replicated at this registry office.

To see more images from this Mansfield Registry Office wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G Settings: ISO125 | F2.5 | 1/400


THE SETTING SPRAY

bride having setting spray applied to her on the morning of her wedding

Capturing bridal make-up photos can be tricky. I always work around the make-up artist, never asking them to pose or repeat a step—they’re on a strict schedule to get everyone ready on time, and I don’t want to interfere.

This particular wedding morning image took a bit of patience. I knew the ‘setting spray’ moment would come once the bridal make-up was complete, and I had already lined up this composition earlier in the day.

With the warm glow of the make-up artist’s light adding atmosphere, it was just a matter of waiting for the perfect moment—and firing off a few frames as the mist from the setting spray caught the light beautifully.

To see more images from this Colwick Hall wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony 35mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO200 | F1.4 | 1/250


TEARY EYES

The bridesmaid wiping her eyes during an emotional wedding ceremony

With experience comes an understanding of timing—and timing is everything during a wedding ceremony.

Most civil wedding ceremonies follow a similar format. Some include readings or poems, while others are simply the legal vows, but the structure rarely changes. This means I know exactly when certain moments will happen.

This photo was captured during the ‘Vows’ section of the ceremony—a point where guests are often asked to stand. It’s the perfect opportunity for me to move discreetly and capture images from behind or to the side of the couple. One of my favourite shots to look out for is a parent or bridesmaid getting emotional, and in this case, it was the bridesmaid’s reaction that made the moment unforgettable.

To see more images from this Cockliffe Country House wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony 50mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO320 | F1.4 | 1/250


DAD’S SPEECH

Bride getting emotional during her Dad's speech at her Hazel Gap Barn Wedding

Wedding speeches can be emotional for everyone—including me! I’ve definitely had moments where I’ve almost gone, listening to heartfelt stories and watching the reactions unfold.

During those emotional moments, people often scrunch their faces as they fight back tears, or wipe their eyes in ways that aren’t always flattering. That’s why I love this image of Scarlett reacting to her dad’s speech—it’s pure, unposed emotion and a beautiful reminder of just how powerful wedding photography can be.

To see more images from this Hazel Gap wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN Settings: ISO200 | F1.4 | 1/250


FINAL ADJUSTMENTS

bride getting into her wedding dress at Cockliffe House

Getting into the wedding dress can be one of the most stressful parts of the morning—especially if your helpers aren’t quite sure what they’re doing. Add a wedding photographer into the mix, capturing every moment, and you can see why it might feel overwhelming.

But Jo took it all in her stride. She embraced the moment, trusted me to work around her, and that’s when the magic happens—natural, in-the-moment, candid wedding photography that tells the real story of the day.

This was one of the few portrait orientation shots I captured at her wedding. I squeezed in between Jo and the window to use the soft natural light, and the vertical framing was the only way to bring this beautiful composition together.

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony 35mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO400 | F1.8 | 1/250


THE LOOK BACK

The Mill at Hoveringham Wedding photography | bride and groom after the confetti throw.

On a wedding day, I never stop expecting moments to happen. The next one is always just around the corner, so I’m constantly looking, anticipating, and ready to capture it.

This shot was taken just after the confetti run—a point where many wedding photographers might put the camera down and move on. But not me. I knew the couple would be heading back towards the church for fizz and cake, and that walk was ripe for something special.

It could have been another burst of confetti, a spontaneous hug, or a guest catching the bride’s attention and making her turn with a smile. Whatever it was, I was ready—because the best candid wedding photos often happen when you least expect them.

Always be looking and expecting.

To see more images from this The Mill at Hoveringham wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony 35mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO125 | F2.5 | 1/250


THE DANCE WITH DAD

bride and her father dance during the wedding reception

This is Sarah and her dad—whom I mentioned earlier in the second photo of this blog post.

Sarah and Rick chose to marry as soon as possible, knowing how important it was for Sarah’s dad, who was ill, to be there to witness their wedding day.

This moment was captured during their father–daughter dance, a series of images that are some of the most moving I’ve ever photographed. I’ll be honest—I hid behind my camera for the entire dance, and not a single person in the room had dry eyes. These are the kind of heartfelt wedding moments that stay with you forever.

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony 35mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO250 | F2.5 | 1/250


THE BEST MEN

Best men give their speeches to the groom who breaks out in a massive belly laugh

Best man speeches tend to go one of two ways—safe and predictable, or hilariously embarrassing. At Louise and Jamie’s wedding at Norwood Park, it was definitely the latter, and this photo captures the moment perfectly.

This shot is a little different for me. It was taken with my well-loved Sony FE 20mm wide-angle lens, which I don’t often use during speeches. But with the unique room layout—two long tables of wedding guests—I had to get creative. To avoid blocking heads in the frame, I crouched low, shooting between the guests to capture this candid moment in all its glory.

To see more images from this Norwood Park wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A9ii Lens: Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G Settings: ISO320 | F3.2 | 1/250


A MOMENT

bride gives a big bear hug to a wedding guest during the wedding breakfast

This photo from Becky & Jack’s wedding at Pudding Pie Hill was captured during the wedding breakfast—a time when many photographers take a long break. For me, it’s the opposite. I’ll grab a quick 10–15 minute pause on an 8–10 hour day, but then I’m straight back to looking for moments like this.

This shot happened just after the top table had finished dessert while other tables were still waiting to be served. If I’d been sat down for an hour, I’d have missed it completely. Breaks are important, but so is remembering that these little, in-between moments tell the full story of a wedding day—and they deserve to be photographed.

To see more images from this Weddings on Pudding Pie Hill wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 50mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO1250 | F2.5 | 1/250


THE STAIRCASE

bride walking down a stunning staircase towards her wedding ceremony at Norwood Park

For this shot of Louise at Norwood Park, patience was key. I’d spotted the staircase and the beautiful light and knew it could make a dynamic frame as she walked down. There were risks—the bridesmaids might block my view, someone could wander through the closed door, or I might miss a moment in the ceremony room while I waited.

Thankfully, everything lined up perfectly. Louise descended alone, the light fell just right, and even her veil behaved. It’s one of those wedding photos that rewards patience and trusting your instincts as a photographer.

To see more images from this Norwood Park wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A9ii Lens: Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G Settings: ISO1600 | F2.5 | 1/250


ONE LAST LOOK

The bride and her dad share a look with each other before walking down the aisle at The Hall Barns

It’s not often I get the chance to capture this look between a bride and her dad. More often than not, it happens tucked away behind a door, out of sight from everyone. Thankfully, The Hall Barns at Prestwold has an open ceremony layout, meaning this special moment was right there in the open for everyone to see—and for me to photograph.

To see more images from this The Hall Barns wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 50mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO160 | F2.8 | 1/250


THE COMFORTING LOOK

an emotional Grandma sharing a look and a hand hold with her grand daughter during a Church wedding ceremony in Nottingham

I’ve mentioned earlier that I’m always looking for moments of touch, and this is another perfect example—but this time, you can also see the face of Grandma.

This image was captured during Gen and Mikey’s wedding ceremony. With it being a church wedding and having excellent freedom to move around, I was able to position myself right next to an emotional Grandma, quietly watching the moment unfold. It’s these raw, heartfelt reactions that make wedding photography so special.

To see more images from this The Mill at Hoveringham wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 50mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO2000 | F1.4 | 1/250


BIG SISTER

the brides sister emotionally reacts to seeing her little sister in her wedding dress

This image is part of a series capturing Emily’s sister’s reaction to seeing her in her wedding dress for the very first time.

With moments like these, it’s so important to keep things authentic and avoid influencing what’s happening. I could have photographed this up close with a 20mm or 35mm lens, but I chose a 50mm. It gave me enough distance to stay unobtrusive while still drawing the viewer into the emotion of the moment. Most importantly, it meant I could capture the reaction without altering it—keeping it completely real.

To see more images from this Colwick Hall wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 50mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO1250 | F2.5 | 1/250


THE BIG GROUP SHOT

Big family formal photo at Wollaton Hall with all the guests on the steps at the venue

I’m not usually a fan of big group wedding photos—they can take ages to organise, half the guests aren’t looking at the camera, and you have to either be perched ridiculously high up or miles away just to fit everyone in (which means no one can hear you anyway!).

But some wedding venues and planners know exactly how to make a big group shot work. Wollaton Hall in Nottingham is a perfect example—the stunning backdrop, open space, and smart planning made this group photo effortless and enjoyable for everyone involved.

To see more images from this Wollaton Hall wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G Settings: ISO640 | F14 | 1/200


THE FRIENDLY HORSE

Bride and Groom stroking a horse on their wedding day

During the afternoon of her wedding at The Hall Barns, Freya decided to wander over to the field next door to visit the horses. I tagged along—camera in hand—just in case something special happened.

I’m so glad I did, because we captured this lovely moment of Freya and Alex with a particularly friendly horse… who seemed far more interested in Freya’s wedding bouquet than anything else!

To see more images from this The Hall Barns wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO2000 | F4.5 | 1/500


STAR LIGHT FIRST DANCE

bride and groom dance during their first dance in front of a lighting up backdrop

First dances can be awkward—most couples don’t love having their photo taken, and even fewer enjoy dancing in front of a crowd with everyone’s eyes on them!

For Cherie and George’s wedding, the DJ had set up a backdrop of twinkling lights, which handily covered some less-than-romantic windows looking out onto a car park. I lit the first dance as I always do and crossed my fingers they’d stay close to the backdrop—and actually dance, rather than cling on for dear life.

Thankfully, everything came together perfectly, and we ended up with a beautiful first dance wedding photo that really captures the moment.

To see more images from this Hemswell Court wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony 50mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO6400 | F2.5 | 1/250


THE BAND

The groom playing in the band  during the wedding reception

I love live music at weddings—a great band brings so much energy to the evening, and even more so when the groom and his best men are part of the line-up!

I chose this image because of its depth and layering. By focusing on the bass player in the back and using a shallow depth of field, it creates this almost optical illusion—you’re not entirely sure who’s closer to the camera and who’s further away. It’s a fun, dynamic shot that captures both the atmosphere and the energy of the night.

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 50mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO500 | F1.4 | 1/200


THE FLOWER GIRL

A photo of a flower girl looking bored during the wedding ceremony

Another image from a wedding ceremony—this time at Izzy & Ash’s beautiful church wedding. Because I had the freedom to move around during the service, I was able to capture this candid moment of the flower girl looking just a little bored with it all. It’s those small, unscripted moments that add real personality to a wedding gallery.

To see more images from this Repton School wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN Settings: ISO10000 | F2 | 1/200


TISSUES

mother of the bride handing a tissue to the brides sister during the wedding ceremony

This fun candid from Caitlyn & Isaac’s wedding happened just as I spotted Mum in the background reaching for some tissues. I assumed she’d use them herself—but instead, she handed them straight to Caitlyn’s sister. Moments like this are why I’m always on the lookout during a wedding day—little unscripted interactions that tell the real story.

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 50mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO1250 | F2 | 1/250


THE COLOURFUL DANCEFLOOR

Wedding photography on the dance floor with a girl holding a drink and a handbag

The wedding dancefloor is pure chaos—in the best way! With limbs flying and guests throwing themselves into the music, it’s the perfect moment to dive in close and capture the energy. I had plenty of great dancefloor shots that could have made this list, but this one stands out—the angle, the handbag, and that brightly coloured dress on the left all came together perfectly.

To see more images from this Norwood Park wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A9ii Lens: Sony 24mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO2000 | F8 | 1/25 | Flash Fired


ALBIE

dogs at weddings

They say all dogs are good boys, and Albie proved it at Izzy & Ash’s wedding. I’m convinced there should be a law that every outdoor wedding must have at least one dog—they bring so much joy! From mingling with guests to hoovering up dropped canapés, they’re always a source of fun (and they often follow me around, which I love). This shot is my favourite—Albie came in so close, you just know he’s about to give the camera lens a curious sniff.

To see more images from this Repton School wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G Settings: ISO125 | F2.5 | 1/400


THE EXCITEMENT

a bridesmaid holding up a mirror so the bride  can see herself in the mirror.

Many photographers stage those cliché “bride looking in the mirror” shots—but that’s not my style. I prefer to let things unfold naturally, so if I capture a genuine moment of the bride catching her reflection, that’s a bonus. Even better is when the frame includes other people—like in this shot, where one of the bridesmaids is bursting with excitement at seeing the bride all made up. Those are the moments you just can’t fake.

To see more images from this Weddings on Pudding Pie Hill wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G Settings: ISO1250 | F8 | 1/250


GRANDMA

the bride and her grandma having an emotional moment during the wedding breakfast

Another candid moment captured during the downtime of the wedding breakfast—proof that some of the best wedding photos happen when you’re not glued to your seat. This sweet exchange between Scarlett and the groom’s grandma is exactly why I stay on my feet, ready to capture those fleeting, heartwarming moments that might otherwise go unnoticed.

To see more images from this Hazel Gap wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 50mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO1000 | F1.4 | 1/250


MATES

The groom hugging a close friend after the confetti tunnel

Hugs are hands-down my favourite moments to capture on a wedding day, and I’ve had to show serious restraint by including just one in this blog post—I could easily fill an entire gallery with them!

This particular hug was caught just after Annie & Chris’s confetti run, which is prime time for these kinds of moments. It’s often the very first chance guests have to embrace the newlyweds and share in their joy.

What I love about this image is the closeness—you can almost feel the squeeze just by looking at it. It’s the kind of hug you can hear, if that makes sense!

To see more images from this Cockliffe Country House wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 35mm F 1.4 GM Settings: ISO125 | F1.8 | 1/640


THE WALK AWAY

the bride and groom walking away whilst looking at each other

I love capturing wedding dress details in those natural moments—when the dress is being worn, moved in, and truly brought to life. You can only appreciate the shape, flow, and fit of a gown when it’s on the bride. There’s a time and place for a ‘dress hung up’ shot, but for me, it has to feel right.

This image was taken while Izzy & Ash enjoyed a few quiet minutes together before being introduced into their wedding breakfast. The combination of the stunning dress details and the look on Ash’s face is what makes this moment so special.

To see more images from this Repton School wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony 50mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO125 | F1.4 | 1/400


THROW AND CATCH

The groom playing with his daughter whilst the bride waits for a formal photo

This was a lovely little moment between Annie, Chris, and their young daughter Pim, captured just before we took a quick family photo of the three of them together.

The expressions on their faces are absolutely priceless, and I really hope this one finds its way into a frame or album—it’s the kind of image that deserves to be printed and treasured.

To see more images from this Cockliffe Country House wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 35mm F.4 GM Settings: ISO125 | F2.8 | 1/250


“I DONT BELIVE IN GETTING MARRIED”

The best man gives his speech to the backdrop of a sun kissed wood

Another best man shot that made the list—but this one stands out for two reasons.

Firstly, it’s set in a woodland, which makes for a gorgeous and unusual backdrop for a speech. Secondly, the best man opened with, “I don’t believe in marriage and don’t see the point,” prompting a chorus of boos and a few sideways glances toward his girlfriend. His response? A big grin and a casual shrug.

All good fun—and it made for a cracking photo.

To see more images from this Mansfield Registry Office wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 50mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO125 | F1.4 | 1/400


THE CAKE CUT

the bride and groom cutting their wedding cake in a restaurant in Nottingham

Ah, the cake cut—a classic wedding photo that every parent expects in the album. The trouble is, they can sometimes feel a bit underwhelming: the cake’s shoved against a wall or a fire escape, and the couple just wants to get it done and move on.

This one was taken in a restaurant, with me practically pressed flat against the wall in a vain attempt to get more space (spoiler: it didn’t work). But it’s not the setting that makes this shot—it’s Caitlyn and Isaac’s expressions as they wrestle with what looked suspiciously like a cake made of concrete.

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony 24mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO1600 | F2.8 | 1/250


ITS NOT GOING ON

The groom struggling to get the wedding ring on the brides finger during the wedding ceremony

This happens so often—the ring just won’t go on! Nine times out of ten, it’s the groom’s ring that sticks, thanks to nervous hands after standing at the front of the ceremony.

This time, though, it was Kyle struggling to get Jo’s ring on. Judging by the reactions, everyone found it hilarious—almost as funny as Kyle accidentally saying his own name wrong moments earlier.

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 50mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO1600 | F1.4 | 1/250


HEIDI

Heidi Wurst performs at a wedding reception

Well, this was a first—and definitely not something the guests were expecting!

Freya and Alex had hinted to me about their first dance surprise, but nothing quite prepared me for the grand entrance of Heidi Wurst. They started their dance as normal, and then—boom—Heidi swept in, stealing the spotlight in the best way possible.

It was brilliant, unexpected, and had everyone in stitches. Click the link below to see the full wedding blog and more priceless reaction shots.

To see more images from this The Hall Barns wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony 24mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO250 | F1.6 | 1/250


HELP WITH THE SHOES

the bridesmaid helping the bride into her wedding shoes

I don’t think I’ve ever seen a bride successfully get her wedding shoes on after the dress is already on—especially if they need fastening. That’s when your mates come to the rescue, stepping in to make sure you’re all set and ready to go.

To see more images from this Norwood Park wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G Settings: ISO500 | F5 | 1/250


THE ENTRANCE

the bride and her father walking down the aisle at Hemswell Court

This is a big yes image for me: Cherie’s face lighting up as she sees George, her dad smiling over at him, and the light falling perfectly down the aisle to tie the composition together. A few seconds later the planner walked behind them to close the doors—which could’ve spoiled it—but we got there in time. Easily one of my favourite walking-down-the-aisle wedding ceremony photos of 2023, and a great example of natural, candid wedding photography.

To see more images from this Hemswell Court wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO500 | F2 | 1/250


PLAYING UP

Poor Max was the star of the morning during this beautiful wedding photography session—right up until it was time to get into his wedding suit!

I couldn’t choose between these two candid moments, so I’m sharing both. The first shows Max getting a little “help” putting on his wedding suit, while the second captures him having had enough, retreating for a cry and scream—real, raw wedding day emotions that make for unforgettable photos.

To see more images from this Colwick Hall wedding, click HERE

Left Picture - Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 35mm F.4 GM Settings: ISO1000 | F2 | 1/250

Right Picture - Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 35mm F.4 GM Settings: ISO400 | F2.2 | 1/250


THE DRESS AND THE VEIL

Cockliffe House wedding photography | photo showing the wedding dress and veil hung up

I never touch a wedding dress during my wedding photography sessions—I worry that even the slightest movement might cause the delicate fabric to fall apart in my hands!

When I arrive for the morning wedding prep, the bridal gown is usually hung up and still inside its travel bag, and that’s exactly how I leave it. Occasionally, one of the bridesmaids will carefully remove the dress and arrange it for a bridal portrait, but I never ask for this to be done.

Sometimes, the wedding dress is hung in a room with beautiful natural light, creating an ideal setting for timeless wedding dress photography. This image from Jo & Kyle’s wedding is a perfect example. I particularly love how the veil is elegantly draped over the chairs and how the soft light highlights its delicate details—making for a stunning opening shot in their wedding gallery.

Capturing these authentic moments during the morning prep is one of the joys of wedding photography, creating lasting memories that every bride will cherish.

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO125 | F1.4 | 1/250


FIRST DANCE

A wedding first dance at Goosedale

The first dance can often feel quite similar at many weddings, so as a wedding photographer, I’m always searching for creative ways to capture those familiar moments with a fresh perspective.

During the first dance, I usually start by photographing the couple sharing their special dance. Then, I shift my focus to the important guests watching, capturing their genuine reactions and emotions.

In this particular shot, I noticed that everyone was gathered tightly in the archway, leaving the edges of the room empty. I carefully moved around the scene and positioned myself with my back to the band, hoping to capture Michele and Dean with their guests beautifully framed in the background. Luckily, I managed to snap a perfect moment of their kiss during the first dance, surrounded by their loved ones — a candid wedding moment that truly tells the story of their wedding reception.

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO3200 | F3.5 | 1/250


MUM

an emotional Mum seeing her daughter in her wedding dress for the first time on her wedding day

I love capturing the heartfelt reactions of parents during wedding photography sessions. Often, it’s the father who gets the first glimpse of his daughter in her wedding dress, but in this image, it was Becky’s mum seeing her for the very first time.

As I mentioned earlier, capturing these emotional wedding moments is incredibly important. At the same time, it’s essential to give people space to experience their feelings naturally, without feeling like they have to hold back just because I’m there.

My approach is simple: get the shot, then step back and let those precious moments unfold. This balance creates authentic and timeless bridal portraits that truly reflect the love and emotion of the day.

To see more images from this Weddings on Pudding Pie Hill wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO400 | F1.8 | 1/250


BOXERS

the best man and father of the groom wearing boxer shorts with the grooms face on

This was a brilliantly funny and unique wedding moment! What you can’t see in this photo—but is captured in other shots—are the ten other guests holding up the same boxers with Tim’s face on them.

I’ve never seen anything like this at a wedding before, and it made for some truly hilarious and memorable candid wedding photography. Moments like these bring out the fun and personality of the day, making every wedding gallery one-of-a-kind.

To see more images from this Wollaton Hall wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO640 | F1.4 | 1/250


IN ONE GO

A bride stuffing some wedding food into her mouth as the guests look on

Alongside capturing genuine touches and emotions at weddings, I’m always on the lookout for moments of humor. Sometimes it’s a guest pulling a funny “selfie face” or someone playfully interacting with something. One little game I like to play is finding humor in food shots during the wedding reception.

This moment made my list because Freya is going all in with her bite—going for it all in one go! Meanwhile, Alex on the left looks either proud or surprised, I’m not quite sure which. The food itself did look absolutely amazing, making this candid wedding photography moment both funny and memorable.

To see more images from this The Hall Barns wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G Settings: ISO160 | F3.2 | 1/1000


GET CLOSE AND FILL THE FRAME

One popular saying in wedding photography is “get close and fill the frame,” and this image taken during the live band performance at Hazel Gap perfectly demonstrates that approach.

Capturing close-up wedding shots like this helps highlight the energy and emotion of the moment, making for dynamic and engaging images. Whether it’s the excitement of the live band or the subtle details of the day, filling the frame brings those memories to life in a powerful way.

To see more images from this Hazel Gap wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO2000 | F8 | 1/40 | Flash Fired


NERVOUS HANDS

bride and groom nervously holding onto their own clasped hands during their Church wedding ceremony

I love seeking out symmetry on a wedding day, and this photo perfectly captures the symmetrical nervous hands of Izzy and Ash during their wedding ceremony at Repton Chapel.

Finding moments like these adds a unique artistic touch to wedding photography, blending emotional storytelling with creative composition. These candid wedding ceremony photos not only highlight the couple’s nerves but also showcase the beauty of their connection in a visually striking way.

To see more images from this Repton School wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN Settings: ISO3200 | F1.4 | 1/200


THE ALFA SPIDER

An Alfa Spider outside a wedding venue

I have a soft spot for Alfas—I’ve owned three over the years—and one of my all-time favorites is the Alfa Spider. It’s such a stunning car with an iconic shape.

When I arrived at Hemswell Court for Cherie and George’s wedding, I spotted this beautiful Alfa parked outside. I knew immediately I wanted to capture an interesting photo that showcased both the classic car and the elegant venue.

Noticing a small gate leading to one of the car parks, I used the gate frame to eliminate distractions and employed the leading lines of the path to draw the viewer’s eye directly toward the Alfa Spider. This creative composition resulted in a striking wedding venue photo that highlights both the car’s timeless appeal and the charm of the location.

To see more images from this Hemswell Court wedding, click HERE

Camera: Sony A1 Lens: Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM Settings: ISO125 | F2.2 | 1/800


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THE CHEQUERS INN WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

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REVIEWS | SONY ALPHA WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER - WHAT LENSES I USE AT WEDDINGS