Answering ten common questions

Answering ten common questions

Planning a wedding involves a lot of decisions, and choosing the right photographer is one of the most important. Here are answers to some common questions I’m often asked:

1. How far in advance do we need to book you?
As soon as possible! My furthest booking right now was made 24 months in advance, although most bookings are typically made 12-18 months before the big day. Recently, however, there’s been a trend toward booking much later, particularly for weddings this calendar year (2025). From speaking with others in the industry — from venues and florists to make-up artists and DJs — this seems to be the case across the board. If you have your date set, it’s always better to secure your photographer sooner rather than later. I’m currently three bookings away from being fully booked for 2025.

2. How many hours can we book you for?
Rather than offering packages based on a set number of hours (which is how I would structure pricing about 10 years ago), my Classic package provides “all day” coverage. This means I’ll typically spend 10-11 hours photographing a wedding, starting with preparations in the morning (2-3 hours before the ceremony) and finishing 30-60 minutes after the first dance. I’ll give you a definite start time, but the end of the day remains open and flexible – I won’t be watching the clock. Take a closer look at the Classic package.

3. Can we view a full wedding gallery?
Absolutely. My portfolio includes multiple full galleries that showcase my style and approach. If you’re interested in seeing weddings captured at a specific venue, feel free to ask – I may have additional galleries available upon request. Here’s an example of a full wedding gallery.

4. Do you work with a second photographer?
Yes, a second photographer can be booked as an optional extra. I’ve had the pleasure of working with a group of talented wedding photographers, based in Hampshire, who share a similar style and approach. Whenever possible, I work with the same guys, ensuring a seamless working relationship. However, their availability may vary, so booking early is advisable if this is an option you’re considering. Take a look at the optional extras I offer.

5. Can we provide you with a shot list?
For the majority of the day, I work unobtrusively, capturing real moments as they unfold naturally rather than directing or adhering to a detailed shot list. So no, a shot list isn’t needed. However, for family and wedding party group pictures (if you’re having any), I do ask for a brief list in advance. Read more about my approach to group photos for weddings.

6. What does a drone add to a wedding shoot?
I use a small drone to capture aerial photographs of your wedding locations. These images add a unique perspective to your day and enrich the overall gallery when viewing the story of your day. Whether it’s a sweeping view of your venue at sunset or a picturesque shot of your ceremony setting in the morning, a drone can provide you with a few stunning images of your day.

7. How long will it take to receive our edited photos?
Your photos will be ready two weeks after your wedding day. During the peak summer months, or the Christmas/New Year period, this may be extended to three weeks.

8. Do you edit all the photos yourself?
Yes, all editing is done in-house by me.

9. How long have you been a wedding photographer?
I’ve been a full-time professional wedding photographer, based in Hampshire, since April 2011 – I’ve been doing this for over 14 years. I photographed my first wedding in 2008 (Elmers Court in Hampshire). Read more about my wedding photography style and history.

10. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
In the context of my photography work, I’m going to pick two. The first would be my Grandad telling me not to ever work for free. This taught me to try and see the value in my work in the early days. And the second was from another fellow wedding photographer. He said, “don’t worry if ten minutes passes-by and you haven’t taken a picture; the moments will come.” I hear these words almost every wedding I photograph. It helps me to not overshoot – to not feel like I have to be constantly clicking the trigger – I’m not shooting a video. It helps me to remain calm and not become anxious during the lulls in the day’s activities and running the risk of directing things away from the organic flow of the day. For sure there are times when the photographer can interject with an idea or suggestion, but the advice very much keeps this in its place.

If you have any additional questions or want to discuss your wedding day in more detail, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Let’s create something unforgettable together!

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