Tag: chichester wedding photography

Weddings at Arundel Town Hall | Charlotte & Rob

Gosh, I am years out of date with blogging this wedding from 2017, but I just loved Charlotte & Rob’s theme and styling I couldn’t resist bringing it out of the archives to share it!

To say this is non-traditional is an understatement… I swung by to see Charlotte in her final stages of getting ready, and I just loved her mermaid dress and her bespoke revolver & skull necklace bearing her new moniker ” Mrs Coops”. Her bouquet was handmade with seashells and her blue swirled Irregular Choice shoes just finished off her look perfectly!

Her bridesmaids were wearing bold blue & red rockabilly tea dresses, which proved to be ideal for swishing on the dancefloor later! A quick pose with Dad before heading into the VW Camper to head to Arundel.

The boys were ready and waiting with enough time to grab a couple of portraits with Rob and his boys…. I loved Rob’s Ben Sherman suit coupled with some super shiny Dr Martens… he was totally rocking his styling! Clearly his groomsmen were nursing hangovers and trying to recover with the hair of the dog while they waiting for the girls to arrive!

Weddings at Arundel Town Hall I’ve found are unique to each couple, and this was no exception! While Rob waited for his bride, the beautifully coordinated bridesmaids and flowergirls came walking down the aisle.

Charlotte was clearly taken with emotion as she saw her groom for the first time. With an wonderful service, with words being spoken by their daughters it was finished off with Rob fluffing his lines to much hilarity to Charlotte and their guests.

This isn’t the first time I’ve photographed this group of friends, previously it was Vicky and Tom’s wedding… So it was good to see Tom getting in on the action to make sure he had the first selfie with the newlyweds! It was also great to see some of the guests remember me and feel *totally at ease* with their posing LOL!! I have to say though, I ABSOLUTELY LOVED Charlotte’s Garter Flask… I don’t know where you get these from, but I think I need one in my life!!

After some drinks and photos on the outside deck of the Town Hall, Charlotte and Rob had hired a bus to take them and the guests to their next destination of Boxgrove Village Hall.

The lovely draw of Boxgrove Village Hall is that not only can you totally personalise the styling and decor to your own needs, there is the added bonus of Boxgrove Priory being just over the road, a great spot for some group photos.

We took the Bridal Party over there for a quick session before returning to the hall, which you can see was decked out with beachy vibes, deck chairs in abundance, sea themes and handmade table placings in the shape of boats. Each bottle on the table had a little message in it explaining why the Table Name of a specific beach was so important to the couple.

Charlotte and Rob continued their celebrations with a Fish & Chip van, a chill out room where people could hang out away from the music with the sound of seagulls filling the room! Speeches were as usual, filled with hilarity before the cutting of the cake… two versions with hand painted cake toppers that were un-ceremoniously placed on the top upside down! After the first dance action the dancefloor soon filled up, leaving me to admire the incredible cheese platter that had snuck it’s way into the room!!

Being familiar with these Dirty Low Down Dubbers…. I knew without a doubt that the night would end in a human pyramid. I was not disappointed!! Despite the alcohol consumed (or maybe because of it?) these guys NAILED IT with no injuries whatsoever!! I sure wouldn’t wanna be that bottom layer mind you!

I hope you’ve enjoyed re-visiting this wedding from the archives, I absolutely loved getting my memory back into this day!

Thank you again for having me there!!

xX Fiona Xx

Weddings at Arundel Town Hall | Charlotte & Rob

Bailiffscourt Wedding Photographer | Featured Shoot

As a photographer, I have always been fascinated by telling people’s stories in the images I create. The love, the passion, the emotion. As I child I was surrounded by art and in later life studied with the ambition of becoming an artist. Sandro Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” fascinated me… The story and the composition captivated me. Equally, abstract cubism and surrealism had me transfixed. When I create an image I want the viewer to be drawn into that moment and photography has been the perfect medium to realise my artistic vision.

I have been shooting weddings for the last 11 years and love working with a bride and groom to capture their story. Many couples place their trust in me, allowing moments of artistic license to get ‘the’ shot in their collection. I have been privileged to have my work recognised in the form of awards and accolades (including this one in the collection) and proud that this particular shoot made its way into a published feature by Your Sussex Wedding magazine.

Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa is a stunning venue, one I have frequented over the years. After each visit I have felt compelled to shoot there. The modern gothic architecture of the building, the secret tunnel, the meadow… it all cries out for fine art images to capture the spirit and story of the venue. Thankfully the team at the hotel caught my vision too! Calling on some highly recommended and sought after wedding suppliers in the Sussex area, we were able to create a shoot that captured the look I had in my mind. Without these guys, this would still be but an idea:

I loved this floral headdress by Lulalupin as Jess was getting ready!

We had the use of Baylies to prepare and photograph in, it couldn’t have been more sumptuous with its four poster bed, his & her tub bathroom, spacious seating areas and great views over the courtyard area in one direction and peaceful Sussex landscapes in the other.

While Jess was being primped and made up by Clare and Becky, Joel was getting in to the first of his suits. A top hat and tails, complete with cufflinks, pocket-watch, cane and shoes all from Astares. Jess was wearing an Anna Tumas Gown, provided from Mode bridal which fit her beautifully. The full length lace arms giving a gothic twist to the wedding dress. Caroline from Nordic Twigs had made a smaller headpiece to complement the buttonhole and main bridal bouquet. The colours were amazing and complemented beautifully by the red and white gold, handmade rings from Andrew at Aurum Designer Jewellers

While we were all playing dress up, Sara (To Have & to Hire) and Caroline (Nordic Twigs) were busy dressing the Music Room which was being set up for a banquet and the 13th Century Chapel, ready for a blessing ceremony. Tara from Foxwood Wedding Cakes had dropped off this delicious looking cake, complete with Gold Leaf, just perfect! The golds and red tones throughout the styling working together to deliver opulence in its highest form. I love the gold birdcage being used as a card collector. What a different idea!

As a Bailiffscourt Wedding Photographer, the grounds are a dream to shoot in during any season. Fields and flowers, walls and archways and even a beach a very short stroll away, it is an exceptionally versatile venue for your wedding. Sara added to the swing here by styling it with some vines and flowers. Jess & Joel, a real couple, spent much of their time wedding planning here. They have got engaged since this shoot, but that’s another story….

With a quick change for Joel into a Herbie Frogg suit and accessories from Astares we continued to explore the grounds starting with my favorite… The Underground Tunnel, which has a rich and romantic history: It is said that in the 1930’s, Lord & Lady Moyne (who were madly in love) used the tunnel to meet one another for secret trysts despite high society discouraging such passions! I wanted to create an image that befitted the story.

How perfect is this venue for a wedding?! The luxury and variety held within make Bailiffscourt such a sought after venue. The original 13th century chapel, the dramatic bridal suite, the multi-functional music room and the surrounding grounds provide a stunning variety of settings for creating your newlywed portraits. Don’t forget the 5 star restaurant and spa and an array of luxurious rooms for your guests!

How could I forget to add a little mention to the resident Peacocks. You can’t guarantee a shot with them, but this fella, I’m pretty sure, knew there was something interesting going on!

Thank you for reading my “Bailiffscourt Wedding Photographer | Featured Shoot” Blog. If you want to know more about the featured suppliers, their links are also listed below.

xX Fiona Xx

Award Winning Photography by FionaMillsArt | Bailiffscourt Wedding Photographer | Featured Shoot

Chichester Guildhall Wedding Photographer | Julie & Lewis

You may remember Julie & Lewis from our very monochrome Pre-Wedding Shoot on a foggy day at West Witterings? Here’s the link to that day. Thankfully their April wedding last year was on a warm and sunny day… our fingers and noses were very happy for this!!

Julie chose the Chichester Harbour Hotel & Spa as their venue to get ready in, a fantastic choice as not only does it have the most stunning Georgian features with sleek, sympathetic interiors… It is mere meters from their Wedding Venue, The gorgeous Guildhall in Priory Park.

As Julie, her parents and bridesmaids were getting ready, I noticed something hugely profound (for me). Julie’s parents were looking back on a photo album that had been brought along on the day. Now, if we have had a conversation, you will likely know that I am a self confessed “Print Diva”! I love printed images, I really believe we as photographers are doing our future generations a disservice if we are only offering digital files. These precious images get lost on a tiny USB, the files corrupted, or even worse the technology has changed over the years and they no longer fit our computers. ALL of my couples get a wedding album, no matter what. It is something I believe passionate about, future generations looking back through their family history with real printed images. Anyhow, I digress! Here’s some more of their getting ready!

As a Chichester Guildhall Wedding Photographer I know the area pretty well. Very handy when you’re popping back and forth between two venues! I nipped across to The Guildhall to see how Lewis was getting on with his greeting of the guests. The venue had been set up beautifully in their colours of Cadbury’s purple and blue with a drop of fuschia in the flowers. A vase on display made by Julie and her girls during one of her hen activities and some other hand made decorations finished it off beautifully. I love how close Julie and Lewis are with their families. The tenderness shown to one another is palpable.

Just before Julie left the Chichester Harbour Hotel and Spa to take the short stroll to the Chichester Guildhall for their ceremony we took a few moments to capture some portraits before she presented herself to her waiting Bridesmaids.

If you’ve not been in the Chichester Guildhall you will find it is as impressive inside as it is outside. Built in 1282 it has a rich history but became a wedding venue for the first time over 730 years later in 2015! With vast, tall ceilings and filled with windows, it is a beautiful bright space. Perfect for your wedding ceremony!

I love the moments caught just before a bride begins her journey down the aisle. Nerve wracking for many, Julie just looked full of joy! The emotion as Lewis waited for his bride to walk down the aisle was clear to see. The moments caught between them capturing their love, playfulness and adoration towards each other was so warming. Family played a key part in the ceremony, from bridesmaids to witnesses and readings.

For the family portraits and group photos, as a Chichester Guildhall Wedding Photographer, using the grounds in Priory Park is a perfect choice! We stayed for a little while here to capture various combinations of the family groups while also being on hand to capture some less formal shots of the guests as they milled around. It’s always funny when the boys get together, mischief seems to follow….It didn’t take long for Lewis to be back by the side of his gorgeous wife mind you 😉

Julie and Lewis had hired Boxgrove Village Hall for their wedding reception, a versatile hall with large grounds set just outside Chichester in the village of Boxgrove. Well placed to also make the most of the other features the hamlet has to offer….Boxgrove Priory and the ruins there being the obvious.

Like with the decor for their ceremony, there were personal and handmade details throughout their reception. Table names were mocked up from Disney films, showing their love for Walt and his crew. The cake with its dinosaur theme made by the talented couple too! The guests enjoyed afternoon tea before heading into the speeches where again, the love and respect they have for each other and their families was clear for all to see and hear. With tears and laughter the speeches were finished by the best man presenting the newlyweds with a card sent over from Disneyland itself, signed by many of their characters!

While the room was being turned around we popped over the road to Boxgrove Priory to capture a few more portraits. The scenery there changes with the seasons, but the ruins remain the same. A great piece of Sussex history to complete the trend throughout the day with historic buildings!

The evening went on with more food, dancing, ice-cream and jolility! My second shooter, Lee and I invite the guests to register their details on the ipad for the online gallery. A great tool to have that enables us to notify the guests with a click of a button when the images are ready (after the newlyweds have seen them first of course!)

While Julie & Lewis went off to enjoy a beach soaked honeymoon, the work continues for us! All the images are gathered, uploaded and backed up before the editing processes begin. My editing happens in 3 stages: Colour correction; Main edit; Final tweaks. Once this is done and the couple see their gallery for the first time, we then work on their photo album. All my wedding albums are handmade in Italy by Graphistudio. A family run company based in the foothills of the Italian Alps.

Julie and Lewis were also driven by the idea that having printed copies of their images was highly important so they opted to upgrade their collection to the Duet Album. A bespoke creation combining 2 albums in a personally designed box. Using their invitation logo and favoured typography to personalise the box and book covers, this really is a collection that not only holds their whole day in print but represents the theme and styling used on the day too. To complete their collection Julie and Lewis also added Parent Copies to give as gifts. A truly wonderful way to store and present their memories of the most beautiful, love filled day.

I look forward to the next chapters in the Branson Household and wish them every happiness!

Fiona xx

FionaMillsArt | Chichester Guildhall Wedding Photographer

Chichester Harbour Hotel Wedding Photographer | India & Russell

I met India & Russell earlier this year when they were on the search for a wedding photographer. After being a couple for many years and well settled into family life with their three children, they felt it about time to tie the knot!

As with all of my couples, the first thing we embarked upon was the pre-wedding test shoot. Here’s a snap below, but the full link to that blog is here, where they frolicked in the Bluebells and Fields of Gold. It was a great morning to get to know one another better and teach India & Russ the finer art of being natural and comfortable in front of the camera

India and Russell had chosen the Chichester Harbour Hotel in West Sussex as their wedding venue. India was getting ready in The Cottage, the cosy 1 bedroom apartment that is adjoined to the hotel, yet independently accessed. While India was busy having her make-up done by Kiri, her daughter and niece kindly offered to help me with the dress photography! This gorgeous, figure hugging gown was from Proposals, a bridal boutique in the heart of Chichester (where I also got mine from over 10 years ago!)

Taking a few moments to see how the men were getting along with their task of getting ready, it seemed they had decided to get ahead of the game and make a start on having a pre-wedding drink or two while going over their speeches… And why not, with the bar perfectly placed between the bedrooms and the ceremony hall, it would have been rude not to!

A lovely day at the beginning of June, the wedding was timed perfectly as the ceremony room had just undergone a major refurb. It looked crisp, fresh and bright! With the chair covers and sashes complementing the peach, sage and fresh green colour palate if the bridal party. A stunning summer blend.

Popping back to see how the girls were getting on, it was incredible seeing India getting into her dress. It was if that gown were made for her. Stunning and slinky, India was every bit the gorgeous bride. While Mum was helping her into those last squeezes of the corset, the girls kept me busy again with some cheeky portraits!

One of the great things about getting ready and married in the same location is that as a Chichester Harbour Hotel Wedding Photographer I can flit back and forth, to and fro between all members of the bridal party. India and Russell’s two sons joined us this time looking superb in their matching suits.

The ceremony was a delight, every chair was filled, family and friends abundant. The happiness and love was clear to see as India and Russell married in front of their nearest and dearest. With a personal poem read out by Indie’s mum that was a real tear jerker…. As a wedding photographer, I’m over 10 years in and I still haven’t yet got immune to the emotional response in me when I attend people’s weddings! It’s a good job I’m hidden behind the camera!!

We took a quick detour with the family to Priory Park, just next door to the Chichester Harbour Hotel. The kids leapt and whooped their way across, thankful for the open space! All the cousins together created a fizzing ball of energy! At times, it could be described as herding cats, but we all got there in one piece for a few family portraits before spending some moments with India and Russell.

While guests enjoyed the bar and caught up with each other, the room at the hotel was swiftly turned around ready for the wedding breakfast. A delicious three course meal that consisted of beautifully presented carpaccio starters, chicken and fish courses and puddings that looked like they stepped out of a culinary magazine. The speeches were delivered before the meal to a room of laughter and smiles.

Making the most of the long summer evening, the guests enjoyed the deck and the outdoor space after the wedding breakfast. India and Russell were keen to take some pictures with their friends who had travelled from near and far to join them on their wedding day. We also caught India’s sisters and their kids playing up to the camera!!

The party soon kicked off in the evening with sounds spinning from the decks by Nick, one of Toast Functions brilliant DJ’s… With a magic mirror photo-booth and jars of sweets available for your own pick-a-mix there was much to do. The first dance was a special moment before they were joined by their daughter and the rest of the guests. Before we left the party to carry on enjoying themselves, we took a short break with India and Russell to capture some final portraits using the original Georgian staircase that dominates the front of this historic building. As a Wedding Photographer at Chichester Harbour Hotel it is impossible to not use their gorgeous features

To complete their wedding collection, India and Russell opted for an Original Wedding Album, by Graphistudio, personalised in white cloud leatherette set into a colour coordinated Design Box in sage grey maple and finished with a pink leatherette internal. A beautiful way to ensure they can look back and hold on to these memories for years to come.

Many congratulations Mr & Mrs Dillingham, it has been a pleasure getting to know you both and capturing your precious memories. I’m sure we’ll see you again as your family grow and new portraits need capturing.

Big love,

Fiona xx

FionaMillsArt | Chichester Harbour Hotel Wedding Photographer | India & Russell

Chichester Wedding Photographer | The Guildhall | Chichester Cathedral

Chichester Wedding Photographer | The Guildhall, Priory Park | Vicars Hall, Chichester Cathedral

Lianne and Tom were planning a winter wonderland of a wedding in Chichester, West Sussex. The theme was Narnia (which also happen to be one of my favourite collections of books!). After spending the previous months getting to know each other over test shoots and planning sessions we were well under way for their wedding day. They had specific ideas when searching for their Chichester Wedding Photographer, so I’m very glad to have fit the bill. A creative couple, they wanted their day to be captured naturally and artistically while still representing the feel and vibe of the day.

Lianne was getting ready at her parents house with some of her family and bridesmaids. The creative apple doesn’t fall far from the tree it seems, as much of the decor and themed pieces were crafted and created by her mum, Sue. From the bridesmaids dresses in midnight blue, the fur stoles, the bridesmaids bouquets to the piece-de-resistance: The bridal bouquet. A stunning posey made with a selection of glittery brooches rather than flowers, it has to be one of the most unique bridal bouquets I’ve seen in a long time. Much of the reception was also styled by Sue which you will see later.

Wearing a stunning satin and lace gown, with porcelain skin, dark hair and striking blue eyes that shone with happiness, Lianne was the epitome of a beautiful bride. Finishing off her bride-style with some hand dyed teal shoes that peeped under her hem, she was ready to present herself to her awaiting family and friends. I love the emotion in their faces as they see the bride for the first time.

While the bridal party finished up at home, Lee and I arrived at the Guildhall in Priory Park to capture the Groom, Tom and his Best Men. Recently re-opened as a wedding venue, the Guildhall is a fabulous piece of Chichester architecture. Bright, spacious and expansive, with it’s tall ceilings and gothic windows, light just streams in. The building retains much of its original features and character, and set in the City Centre within Priory Park it just cries out for weddings, as a Chichester Wedding Photographer I am so glad it has reopened! Tom and his groomsmen were dressed in the finest Scottish attire, complete with sporran and Sgian Dubh’s in their long socks. As you can see while the couple marry, some celebrate with a photo-op, others with a wee dram!

The newlyweds had planned their reception at Vicars Hall at Chichester Cathedral. We spent a short time on portraits (including one with a lamppost in homage to Narnia) before they stopped for an afternoon tea. The room was tastefully decorated with winter white twigs and fairy lights, pine cones, lampposts and keys with turkish delight on the table and vintage tea sets ready to warm the guests as they arrived. A Star Wars fan, Tom managed to sneak in his own spin…. a Princess Leah and Hans Solo bobble head couple, dressed in outfits to match Lianne and Tom and set as the cake toppers. As you can see, they bravely bobbled to attention as Tom and Lianne prepared to cut their cake with a Scottish long sword.

The party was set in the Cloisters with a DJ and BBQ. Before Lee and I left them to their party, we made the most of the dark cloisters for a few more portraits. I just love the lines and curves of the building, in awe of how vast and precisely these cathedrals were built so many years ago.

The final act to Lianne and Tom’s wedding day is the Graphistudio Album. They chose a Young Book with a Crystal Glance cover to really show off that dramatic shot in the cloisters.

They also left me some really lovely feedback to share with you: “Fiona captured our winter wedding in such a unique and stunning way that no other photographer would, we got everything we asked for and more! Thank you Fiona!!! Xx” Lianne & Tom Burnett

Congratulations Mr & Mrs Burnett it has been most lovely meeting you and capturing your amazing day!

Fiona xx

FionaMillsArt | Chichester Wedding Photographer

Mr & Mrs Cooper | The White Swan, Arundel

Daniel & Vicky were a lovely young couple I met early in 2015 planning for their 2016 wedding at St George’s Church in Eastergate followed by their reception at The White Swan, Arundel. As with every wedding, we had a test shoot on a cold and blustery day in March to prepare them for their big day. I love a cold day, it encourages us all to be snuggly and cosy!

Daniel and Vicky were to be married in a small church in a village on the south coast. St George’s in Eastergate is a stunning, yet petit, building with wonderful exposed beams and original stained glass windows. Sadly, Spring was yet to appear on this May afternoon so there was a mildly damp moment as Vicky arrived at the Church driven by her father and accompanied by her bridesmaids and mum. Vicky, however seemed unfazed by the showers as she patiently had her veil fixed before entering the church to meet her awaiting groom.

I love that moment of anticipation between the bride’s arrival and the groom being made aware. The air is suddenly filled with excitement! The music starts to play, their eyes meet, hands touch, songs sung, vows shared and that magical first kiss as newlyweds!

Daniel and Vicky were keen to share their special day with their family and closest friends. The rain inhibited us during the end of the ceremony from using the outside space, but the inside of the church was a great spot to capture their nearest and dearest before they headed off to The White Swan, Arundel for the reception. You would never guess from these pictures that it was sheet rain outside!

I had a few moments with the new Mr & Mrs Cooper alone before they joined their guests at The White Swan, Arundel. With a little help from Daniel’s mum to keep me and my camera dry we were able to capture a few portraits of the newlyweds around the church grounds. I’m very grateful that the rain, although still present, wasn’t strong enough to drench us at that moment!! Daniel and Vicky are big fans of black and white images, so I enjoyed finding spots that lent themselves to the bold contrasts that black and white photography brings.

As we arrived at The White Swan, Arundel Daniel and Vicky were greeted by their awaiting family and friends before sitting down to a wedding breakfast. The speeches came first, however, to allow the delicious food to not be marred by the nervous anticipation that comes with public speaking! Amazingly, Daniel had also been putting the finishing touches to the wedding cake he had baked that very morning! (I can attest it tasted delicious!!)

Before the evening party started, there was still a good pocket of time for me to be able to capture some shots of Daniel and Vicky and their Bridal Party. Thankfully the rain had come to a stop by this point so we put to good use the green space and the spiral staircase that is at the back of the function room of The White Swan, Arundel.

To complete the wedding collection, Daniel and Vicky had chosen a Young Book by Graphistudio which I delivered recently alongside some parent copies (please excuse the iPhone pics!!). I was chuffed to bits that the image I had chosen to go inside the box (the final image below) was also one of their favourites that they had already printed and framed! Many congratulations Mr & Mrs Cooper, I hope you love married life and treasure your memories of the day for years to come!

Mr & Mrs Elliott | St Peters, Brighton | Long Furlong Barn

The wedding of Mr & Mrs Elliott at St Peters Church, Brighton, followed by the reception at Long Furlong Barn, Clapham.

There are so many routes I can go down to approach this blog, but I think I’m going to try to go down the kindness road, rather than the teasing and mickey-taking that could happen. You see, we know Jim, we know him really well. He used to rent a room from us, plays in a band with my husband and friends, is a founding member of the Push Community that my husband started a few years ago. We also shoot & video together sometimes, him being an ace videographer that we use for our music videos (me an inexperienced second following his command -and occasionally ignoring him totally!), and he a fab assistant at weddings for me from time to time.

Now, Jim’s relationship history was a bit of a disaster, and I mean with a capital D. It was becoming a standing joke that there would be a tale to be told when he was asked about his current state of affairs, he could have written a book. So, it was to our surprise when we met Olivia that she was normal. When I say normal, I mean she’s hot, stunningly gorgeous. She’s also intelligent, bright, strong, passionate. An independent character, full of faith, who happened to have fallen for our mate! As we got to know them more we could see they were a perfect match, bringing out positive sides to Jim that we hadn’t seen before, so I was really honoured that they asked me to be their wedding photographer. No pressure!! Jim & Olivia had met at St Peters Church in Central Brighton, although not a home church for either of them, it was fitting that they chose it as the location for their wedding.

On the wedding morning I popped into Olivia’s parents house on the way to St Peters so I could capture some moments as she got ready. Sadly, the weather was not great for the day, but the colour palate that had been chosen really made up for the lack of sunshine. Beautiful sunflowers adorned the bouquets as well as white roses, and Olivia’s bridesmaids were wearing lovely pale yellow. I have to admit, when I asked Olivia’s mum to bring down the dress for me so I could photograph it, I got a little emotional. It was stunning! Full bodice with textured lace detailing that flowed tight around the hips to open up to a fishtail skirt. With a full length veil and an additional sheer lace sleeved top. This dress was going to look amazing.

As Olivia came down the stairs towards her awaiting Dad, it was lovely to see the emotion in both of them. A few snaps with them all, then I was heading off to Brighton to catch Jim at St Peters.

As I mentioned earlier, the weather forecast wasn’t amazing, so we hadn’t planned for much outdoor wedding photography at the church, which was lucky, as the building was surrounded by scaffolding that had to be 100m tall!! The Church is going through some major renovation work inside and out, but it still managed to invoke feelings of reverence and sanctity. I can’t wait to see it complete. I managed to grab Jim and some of the boys while they were all busy milling about. Jim seemed….well. He was obviously looking forward to the day that was about to unfold, but you could tell there were some nerves kicking in!

St Peters filled up, everyone got into place…Jim’s best man Rex was leading worship for the most part so rather than being by his side, he was up on the stage ready to break into song. This was a blessing in disguise as I was not permitted near the front, so I had tasked Rex with the job of catching a few snaps of Olivia walking down the aisle from his iPhone (I know, groan…..but beggars can’t be choosers here!!) Then, the hush happened. Olivia and her bridal party arrived. Walking down the aisle with her father towards her groom, they both looked so happy.

The service was full of worship, prayers, vows and love. It was full of the faith that Jim & Olivia hold so dear and important. There were children playing in the aisles, smiles, tears and laughter. Our mate Jim was married. Amazing!!

Did I mention the weather was awful?? After the ceremony we sped to Long Furlong Barn to be met with a wall of rain. A literal wall of rain. Thankfully there were two barns to entertain the guests. One was set up for dining, the other contained games, hay bales, snacks, cards, giant Jenga, giant connect 4 and a bar! I grabbed the newlyweds for a quick (dry) portrait in the private bridal suite so they could carry on enjoying their guests.

Guests arrived, played games, chatted nibbled on the snacks provided while the caterers finished cooking their giant hog roast complete with wood-fired pizzas and paella. As the guests were sitting down to eat, this was the moment the skies cleared. We grabbed 10 minutes to venture outside to take a few more portraits before the heavens opened again. The setting at Long Furlong Barn is stunning. Located near a village called Clapham, 10 minutes from Worthing, it sits in the South Downs National Park. Surrounded by rolling hills, this valley location has a backdrop that changes with the weather and crop seasons. Today, the field was partly ploughed which created a great line for the eye. I like lines. Have I mentioned that before??!

The speeches were much cause for hilarity, if only there was a video. As is tradition, the groom generally offers the thanks for those who have contributed to their day…Jim kindly thanked the Father of the Bride for the gift of his daughter, that he “planned to unwrap slooooooowly, then fast” later that night. It was actually hard to photograph this as I found myself laughing so hard!!

After the meal, guests helped themselves to cake and a sweetie stand. Once suitably fuelled with sugar the party really started. So, Jim is in a band right? The Deloreans. Pretty awesome band (even if I do say so myself, go check them out people!) They came to play. How does this work you ask? Well, my husband is the dep-guitarist for the band so he stood in for Jim. As some of the members are the same, they also played a combined set with The 88’s (also amazing, check them out too….no, not just because my hot hubby is in it!!). So while they played some amazing party hits there was a limbo game set up on the dance floor. I challenge any bride to resist!! The band surprised Jim with the Steel Panther cover of The Backstreet Boys “I want it that way” that he’d been requesting (and been denied) for years as an addition to their repertoire. Jim also got up to play! He totally rocked out, even contributing to dance moves that he is usually pretty immune to!

As the party slowed to a close, guests and their children began to leave, it was time for Jim & Olivia to make their exit. Under a tunnel of arms, clutching his iPad, Jim led his beautiful bride Olivia off into the distance to start their married life together.

Congratulations Mr & Mrs Elliott, we can’t wait to see more of you as you grow together in your life journey.

Much Love, Fiona xx

Choosing Your Wedding Photographer

After many conversations over the years I have put together a guide on how to choose your wedding photographer. I hope it helps you.

Step 1: Ask A Friend.

It is so easy to tap into Google “your location”+ “Wedding Photographer” and have a zillion hits in under a nano-second, but where do you go from there? Clicking on a few will certainly give you a great starting point, often though, you may find that just doing a shout out amongst your friends will give you a list of personally recommended local photographers that won’t have made it on Google until at least page 5!! As these photographers may have shot their weddings/christenings/family portraits etc, your friends will be able to tell you if they had good, bad or amazing experiences…you may even have walked past and complemented some of these images as you’ve sat in their lounge having a cuppa!

Asking your friends on Facebook will net you a good response.

Step 2: Stalk Your List (Research)

You’re armed with a handful of potential photographers, your computer and a large coffee (or glass of red!!)…start stalking them. Check out their websites, online portfolios and prices. Is there a style you are seeing that you really like or don’t like? Have you a budget in mind for your wedding photography/videography? Set up a board on Pinterest and start to catalogue the type of things you have liked the look of. Are there a few photographers you’ve come across that you would like to find out more about? create a shortlist of ones to meet.

Check out the online profiles of potential photographers.

Step 3: Define Your Details

Style: As you have been researching, you may have found a particular photography style that stands out to you, be it formal; black & white; digital vs film; light and airy; quirky etc. Many photographers will display an array of styles in their portfolios as they will be adaptable to the clients needs, but checking out their bio may give you some insight into what their main shooting style is. Again, a portable list of examples like a scrap book, or Pinterest is a great tool to use when you meet potential photographers, but be aware every picture is unique to a set of circumstances: location; people; lighting; time of day; equipment used etc etc so it is very unlikely that a photographer will be recreating those images on your wedding day, rather, they will be using your inspiration to inspire them creatively.

Price: A wedding is made up of so many factors that all come with a price. Some items are administrative (registering your intent to marry) and others are product or labour based (the catering, for example). Some are short term (the flowers & the canapés) and some are long term (the wedding rings and the photographs). It is really important to look at your overall budget and decide how you want to divide it. It wouldn’t necessarily be the wisest choice to blow 50% of your budget on a harpist while you sign the register while leaving 5% for your wedding photographer.

Portioning up Your Wedding Budget

You may find the price of a wedding photographer frighteningly high or shockingly low…myself and a number of photographers I know generally agree that there are 3 main brackets for wedding photography prices: Low; Medium & High.

Low: A photographer who is in the low bracket will usually charge under £500 to shoot your wedding. In my experience, they are usually someone who is just starting out or working to get more experience in their chosen field. They may also be lower in price as they don’t offer the same post production service & finished products than those in a medium-high bracket will.The risk with choosing a photographer from a low price bracket is the potential lack of experience and the use of equipment that isn’t of a professional grade.They may not have the experience of what to do in situations when things go wrong, and may also not have sufficient back up gear. On the other hand, they may be incredibly talented photographers who just need a break and the experience to put their skills to the test. Due to their lack of experience, they may try harder and go above and beyond their duty to really make an impact….and they may be great in a crisis!

Medium: A medium priced photographer should be around the £1000-£2500 price range. This may sound like a lot, but what you are paying for is more than someone for a day. Generally photographers in this bracket are experienced in their field and will have a host of digital and actual portfolios to share with you. The gear they use will be of a high professional grade and they will also be carrying spares! An assistant will usually be on board and this will be part of the cost, and the photographer will spend a considerable amount of time on post production (editing). For me a wedding from planning to finished product usually uses between 50-80 hours of work. You should expect a photographer in this bracket to be fully insured, offer planning and preparation as part of your package and offer a number of options as to how you would like your finished product. E.g: usb stick/online gallery; wedding albums; wall art; canvasses; prints etc. You may also find these photographers are very aware of the current economic climate , so will be able to guide you in how to cut corners and shave your budget and offer you options that suit your budget. They may also offer budget-tipping extras like: videography; pop-up-studio; engagement/trash the dress shoot; hand made albums etc. Many will also have started their journey to be aligned with a professional photographic association (BIPP/MPA/SWPP etc). If you’re lucky, they’ll be winning awards too and recognised in their field!

High: Those in the high bracket start their fees in excess of £3-5000. A photographer in this field will usually be exceptionally experienced with a standard of finished images and products that lend itself to the high price range. Their equipment will be of an ultra-high level pro grade and assistants on the shoot will come as standard. These photographers will often have developed a style that is unique to them and highly sought after by clients, rather than the med-low brackets who may be more flexible to the clients style needs. They may also have a celebrity following, think Hello / OK magazine wedding photography here!

When: Have you set a date yet for your wedding? It may seem silly, but getting your heart set on a photographer before setting your date could be dangerous! Also, have you through about how long you would like your day captured professionally for? From getting ready? Just the ceremony? First Dance? Finest party moves? You may find the length of coverage is a negotiation between your budget and dream photographer!

Step 4: Meet Your Shortlisted Photographers

This is not just an ideal opportunity for you to meet with a potential photographer, but for them to meet you too. It can be an incredibly emotional time on your wedding day, so it is important to feel comfortable with the person who is likely to be there, taking those intimate photos and walking that emotional journey in close contact with you. Aside from all the practical stuff, you are likely to feel a vibe, or have a gut feeling about the photographer. If your gut says an emphatic “NO” chances are that connection isn’t there. Strike them off your list.
Practically it is important to meet face-to-face, or if that isn’t possible at first, schedule a telephone conversation. Ideally meet with the photographer as a couple, if not, bring someone you trust with you, a family member, friend etc. Check out their portfolios, find out who they are and how they are likely to conduct themselves on your wedding day. Discuss your needs, show examples of what you like and don’t like and see if this is something the photographer gets.

See if your photographer gets your ideas for the day.

Are they feeling your day….do they have ideas that could capture the vibe of who you are as a couple? Tell the photographer your dreams. Us photographers love to be creative, you may find we have something up our sleeves that isn’t advertised. Don’t be afraid to talk budgets! It is a real part of the deal that shouldn’t be embarrassing or awkward to bring up. If you’ve done your research you’ll know whether you’ve scheduled a meet with a photographer whose prices start at £1750, when your allotted budget is £750. Do be honest as to what you can and cannot afford, but don’t forget, you wouldn’t pop to TopShop and expect to pay half the ticket price just because it’s not in your budget.
Get a quote. You may get this in person at the meeting, but also get it in writing with details so you can compare and refer back to it when making your decisions. This will likely be emailed or posted to you after the meet. Ask questions. Do they need a deposit? When is completed payment due? How long do the images take? How long does an album take? What is the deal with copyright? What if my Mum wants an image? Who else will be there on the day? Hidden costs? Insured? etc etc. Take notes!! Remember, you should feel at ease with your chosen photographer, if you don’t, it may reflect in the images.

Step 5: Choosing Your Photographer

You’ve done the research, made your budget, set the date, booked your venue and met a bunch of photographers…..so, how do you choose? My first instinct would be to go with your gut, but that isn’t always practical or financially viable.
Break your shortlist down. Get rid of any you didn’t feel any sort of personal connection with, then look at your budget. Are there any on your shortlist that are wildly out of your budget? Unless you can shuffle your finances, maybe they also need to come off your shortlist. You may be left with one or two strong contenders at this point.

There is no hard or fast rule with how to make this final decision. For some, the image “wow factor” may be the deciding vote. For some, the personality of the photographer. For others, it may even be down to the £50 difference on the quote. If it is a small difference in the quotes it may be worth a quick call to your favourite choice to see if £50-£100 can be shaved off somewhere. If you still can’t make your mind up, other than meeting up a second time, you may just need to chat with your fiancé, sleep on it and just go with your gut!!

Good luck!