The importance of training

Even though I have photographed many wedding and umpteen family shoots I still strongly believe in attending training events at least a couple of times per year. It's good to talk over technique with others and I always learn something that I can apply to my own business.

In early December I attended an evening photo-shoot organised by Phil Punton of Phil Punton Wedding photography, with several other like minded photographers in the really quite lovely St Mary Magdelene church in Medomsley Consett. I was a bit concerned as I left Newcastle in light snow, that I would get stuck in the wilds of county Durham, but it was fine in the end.

Phil had organised a wonderful real-life couple to act as model bride and groom, and also enlisted a church friend to be our vicar.

Here are a few shots from the night

  This was our set up with Phil kindly being the VAL (voice activated light-stand)

We ran through the normal process of a wedding, including an insight into Polish wedding customs from our couple that were a nice touch, as it was evening in December we mixed using an off camera flash with the church lights - the off camera techniques are really only for the post-ceremony shoot with the couple as this would be too disruptive to the service.

This did result in some lovely shots, the one above with the cross was lit with a single light behind the couple and the reflected light from the white dress and veil was picked up by the polished cross, (this was not added in photo-shop)

I also converted a number to black and white images as I liked the look and it helped bring out the details in the dress.

These images were all taken on the night and show the variety that can be achieved - I have a few good ideas to try out on my next few weddings once the 'safe' shots are in the bag. Hope you enjoyed looking and reading.

Doxford Hall Wedding

We were back at Doxford Hall near Alnwick in Northumberland last year for the Wedding of Lauren and Karl.
What a wonderful family occasion.

The best way to start the day with a bit of fizz

The boys also calmed their nerves, with matching hip-flasks

Olivia was a star on the day and amused herself when there was chaos all around

Doxford Hall staff were helpful as always, making sure the beautiful wedding dress was in pristine condition

Last minute preparations with Mum and bridesmaids

A bit of fun with the groomsmen whilst setting up the family photos, we had to move these inside as the weather was not good

The brides dad could finally relax after he gave a thoughtful and emotional speech

When the weather cleared up a little, we had to quickly pop outside for a picture in front of the hall

The rain came back in the evening, but we still went back outside (that's what umbrellas are for after all)

We have now photographed several weddings at Doxford Hall and on each occasion the venue was perfect for the couple. 

The staff are very friendly and ensure the whole day runs smoothly. 

If you would like us to photograph your Doxford Hall wedding please get in touch.