Bamburgh Castle Wedding Photography | Sophie & Abe

Sophie & Abe's Bamburgh Castle Wedding Extravaganza

Sophie & Abe's Bamburgh Castle wedding photography was a scorcher, in more ways than one. Think green fields, blue skies, sandy beaches and iconic castles. Then, add a crowd that were warm, welcoming and up for a party and you’ve got the making of an epic day. Sophie and Abe's wedding at the stunning Bamburgh Castle was nothing short of magical.

I’ve seen a growing trend over the years where couples are taking more control of the format of their day and really making it their own. This trend is so refreshing and exciting to see (and photograph!). Of course the traditional elements are still ever present, the ceremony, the confetti and speeches for example, but to throw in a drinks reception attended by everyone before the ceremony was a lovely twist to the day.

Wedding marquee at Bamburgh Castle

We started with the bridal preparations in a strategically chosen holiday cottage just off the cricket field, overlooking both the marquee and castle itself. The cottage was easy walking distance from everything which played a huge part in making the day go seamlessly smooth. The wedding party slowly got ready, and Sophie was in outfit number one, the cocktail suit.

First up it was drinks on the lawn. The wedding marquee at Bamburgh Castle looked breathtaking with the castle behind. It was such a swelteringly hot day, everyone basking in the sun and the colours were vibrant! Soon the wedding party headed up to the castle where Sophie changed into her dress in the Philippa Tower within the castle walls. The guests made their way up via the various footpaths and Abe and his groomsmen positioned themselves in the King’s Hall waiting for Sophie and her father to arrive.

King’s Hall wedding ceremony at Bamburgh Castle

The King’s Hall is built on the site of the old medieval Great Hall and is a Victorian masterpiece. When you first walk into the hall it’ll take your breath away for sure. The ceremony was beautiful, and family and friends spoke beautiful words about the lovely couple. One speaker delivered a lovely poem which was kind, loving and hilarious at the same time. After the ceremony I spent a few moments photographing the families before we all headed down to the Battery Terrace for drinks.

A drinks reception on the Battery Terrace

Quite possibly the best views of any wedding venue in the UK, the Battery Terrace was the venue for drinks reception number 2 of the day. About those views out to sea, north towards Holy Island and south past the newly reopened Farne Islands, simply wonderful. Feeling the sea breeze against already sun kissed skin couldn’t have come sooner as I think we were all feeling the heat of the day by this point. Pay particular attention to the veil shot that I’ve included in my photo summary of the day. A sudden gust of wind took hold of Sophie’s veil and rocketed it off skywards. If it wasn’t for an eagle eyed guest with lightning fast reactions then the veil could quite easily have landed somewhere on the Farne Islands! After all the excitement it was time for the guests to make their way back down to the marquee, whilst Sophie, Abe and I dashed down to the beach.

Wedding photos on Bamburgh Beach

Of all the weddings I’ve had the privilege of photographing at Bamburgh Castle I think most have gone to the beach at some point in the day. If anything, it gives the couple a small window of time together to relax, kick off their shoes and feel the sand between their toes. Wedding days fly by but it’s important to grab a moment together and soak it all up. So when the guests walked down to the marquee the timing for the beach trip was perfect as it didn’t eat into their day. As a documentary wedding photographer I prefer not to get too involved with the couple at this point. I want authentic images of real people so me jumping in and saying do this or do that just doesn’t work. Sophie & Abe spent the time together in a way that made the photography effortless. They were enjoying each others company like no one was watching and that to me is gold dust.

Save the last dance for me

I’m wrapping this story up right here as I really think it’s time to let the images do the talking. Back at the marquee there were speeches, the wedding breakfast and then we kicked off into the evening celebrations. Just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better it really did. Abe is a musician, and a mighty good one at that. so when the band got to the end of their first set, Abe and a few of his friends (also mighty fine musicians) proceeded to hop on stage and tear the roof down. What a finale! If Carlsberg did weddings, Sophie & Abe just raised the bar. Beautiful humans, inside and out. Thank you guys.

Your Bamburgh Castle Wedding Photography

I was born about 10 miles north of Bamburgh Castle and grew up on this coastline. In 2009 I proposed to my wife on the beach below Bamburgh Castle as the sun came up. A Northumbrian inside and out I could never have imagined as a kid that I’d be working here photographing weddings. If you’re looking for a wedding photographer for your own bash, and like my style, feel free to get in touch.

Glenapp Castle Wedding Photography | Victoria & Sholto

Glenapp Castle Wedding Photography

Those looking for Glenapp Castle wedding photography, feel free to jump right in! Kick off your shoes and pour yourselves a drink. Make yourselves comfortable and see how Victoria & Sholto's Christmas wedding unfolded.

Members of the Relais & Chateaux group for over 20 years, Glenapp Castle is one of 480 of the world's best hotels. Their reputation for offering the finest food and accommodation, makes Glenapp Castle very sought after indeed. If you want to ensure the best possible wedding experience for you and your guests then this would be it.

The best wedding venue in Scotland?

Set within 110 acres of gardens and private estate, Glenapp Castle truly is a hidden gem. I've had the pleasure of photographing several Scottish castle weddings and Glenapp Castle is possibly the best wedding venue in Scotland.

My approach as a Glenapp Castle wedding photographer?

Before we discuss how I approach Glenapp Castle wedding photography it's worth mentioning how these guys pulled off a miracle. Victoria & Sholto planned and executed a wedding in six months. This involved family and friends travelling from Italy, Spain and London. Not only that, but figuring out the logistics, working with multiple covid regulations and then the travel itself. All in all a major accomplishment wouldn't you agree?

My photography style is natural and candid. It's best described as documentary wedding photography. Some people refer to this as reportage wedding photography but they're the same thing. My aim is to capture real moments without the need or desire to pose or direct people. I try to seek out storytelling photographs using the best available light and composition. I would describe myself as a creative documentary wedding photographer.

That's not to say I don't photograph family formals or couple portraits. I absolutely do, and I set some time aside to do this quickly and efficiently, so as not to eat into your day. What I tend to find with couple portraits is that I can do them in minutes rather than hours like some photographers. That's not a criticism of other photographers, since some couples want this type of staged photography and that's absolutely fine. 

Glenapp Castle wedding photography with Victoria & Sholto

Victoria & Sholto had exclusive use of the castle. During Friday and Saturday morning their guests arrived and checked in. The weather was wet and overcast and it was clear that the sun wouldn't appear throughout the day. The castle however, was the making of a fairytale wedding. The Christmas tree, all the festive decorations and warm tranquil lighting just added to the ambience.

A luxurious five star wedding experience

I shared my time in the morning between photographing both Victoria and Sholto. The ceremony itself took place in the Azalea Glasshouse, an 18th century glasshouse with a botanical feel. This was similar to one at the Balmoral Estate and owned by the Queen.

Throughout the day I couldn't help but notice how attentive the staff were. They really went out of their way to deliver on their promise of a luxurious five star wedding experience.

The wedding breakfast was served in the main castle. A table stretched from one end of the room to the other, a real display fit for royalty. Once the dinner service ended, guests enjoyed a few drinks at the bar whilst the staff prepared the room for the evening entertainment.

A wedding reception at Glenapp Castle

The Jacobites - A Ceilidh band provided the evening entertainment. If you're looking for a wedding band I highly recommend them. The Italian guests could only look on in amazement and eventually they joined in. The guests more familiar with this Scottish tradition were giving it everything!

I hope my images tell the story better than my words! If you're looking for Glenapp Castle wedding photography, or simply looking to find a creative documentary wedding photographer then get in touch.

Ripley Castle Wedding Photos | Rebecca & Chris

Rebecca & Chris's Ripley Castle wedding photos and story gives a lovely insight into a wedding at this iconic venue.It's described on their own website as "elegant & grand" and "a truly enchanting experience".  I can confirm this because it gives me goose bumps every time I drive there. From the moment you arrive your breath will well and truly be taken away. Ripley Castle is located just north of Harrogate, both being only a short journey from the A19 making access really good.

Ripley Castle wedding photos

The day started off in the White Hart Hotel in Harrogate where Rebecca and her bridesmaids and mum got ready. From there I headed through beautiful North Yorkshire countryside to the village of Ripley. Not only is Ripley blessed with such a truly beautiful castle, it's also home to some pretty epic ice cream!

Chris and his best man were waiting patiently for Rebecca to arrive with her bridesmaids and the cutest of flower girls. Rebecca was escorted down the aisle with her mum. As she got closer her reaction when she saw Chris was priceless and may have brought a tear to my eye too! As a couple you'll probably already know what style of wedding photographer you'd like.

My style is relaxed, natural and extremely unobtrusive. As a result, most of my photos are candids. With the exception of a few photos with mum and dad, and some couple portraits (if requested), I'm a fly on the wall.

I enjoy working this way because it gives my couples real moments, real personalities all in real time. As a result of this you get to see you and your guests truly living in the moment rather than glaring into a camera. If you think I might be the the photographer for you then firstly, you need to check your date. Secondly we can arrange a chat via a video call or email if that suits you better. Thirdly, you can book me online which I can discuss with you if you decide!

You can ask a question, say hello and check your date by getting in touch. 

Drumtochty Castle Wedding Photography | Hayley & Brett

If you're looking for Drumtochty Castle Wedding Photography then Hayley & Brett's wedding story might be a good place to start.

Hayley and Brett's enquiry came by way of recommendation. When  a couple whose wedding I photographed in 2012, still continue to recommend me, it makes me feel extremely proud indeed. A special thank you to Byron and Louise, again!

This was my very first wedding at Drumtochty Castle, a beautiful venue tucked away in it's very own glen. I arrived the day before and met with Hayley and Nikki, the manager. Nikki kindly gave me a tour to familiarise myself with the layout in preparation for the next day.

I stayed a short drive from the castle in a place called Edzell. The whole area is very pretty, and on quiet country roads, the drive to the castle on the morning of their wedding was a real pleasure. The weather was surprisingly mild at around 8 degrees and not too windy. I'd take conditions like that in December all day long.

A little on how I approach Drumtochty Castle Wedding Photography

In all honesty, I approach a new venue in much the same way as I approach one I've worked at several times before. The venue really is secondary to the crowd, so being able to capture Hayley & Brett share precious time with their loved ones is my primary aim.

I spent an hour or so with Hayley and her bridesmaids as they got ready. Brett and the guys came downstairs around noon and eagerly lined up whilst Nikki pinned on their buttonholes. The guests all arrived and Hayley's father escorted her downstairs to be married. The ceremony was beautiful, as was the day in general.

We did some outdoor photographs for family, including Skye, Hayley and Brett's very beautiful husky dog.I always enjoy a fine Scottish wedding, and I always get a warm friendly crowd to spend the day with. The whisky was in full flow, warming the cockles in time for the Ceilidh.

The evening party was epic, I simply adore being in the thick of "The Gay Gordons" as I find it the only way to photograph a sense of the moment.

I tell this to all my couples, I think I just enjoy dancing..

Congratulations to Hayley and Brett! I wish you a Merry Christmas and a truly fantastic year. For anyone looking for Drumtochty Castle Wedding Photography, or anywhere else within the UK then feel free to get in touch.    

Sarah & Franz | Bamburgh Castle Weddings Rock!

There's nothing ordinary about Bamburgh Castle weddings. This wedding venue never fails to excite me as a photographer so when I met with Sarah and Franz I was very happy when they hired me. Sarah's originally from the North East, and Franz from Australia, so for half of the guests it involved travelling halfway round the world.

The day began at Middleton Hall in Belford, Northumberland. A well established venue of its own, Middleton Hall was the setting for both the preparations and reception. The Boathouse was the accommodation of choice for the bridesmaids. Offering the most stunning of views of all the properties, it also made for a dream assignment for me. The guys opted for the main hall, I'm guessing the snooker room made this a no brainer!

The wedding party travelled over to Bamburgh in the most extravagant of luxury cars I've ever seen. Yours truly managed to blag a lift with Sarah and her dad, which allowed me to capture dad seeking comfort in his hip flask.

In typical UK fashion, the weather didn't disappoint our Aussie friends. As if by magic, upon arrival at Bamburgh Castle, the heavens opened.Bamburgh Castle is easily one of the most stunning wedding venues in Northumberland. I want to also mention on my blog the tremendous hospitality shown to me by Chris and his wife Grazia, who are the proprietors. They couldn't have been more supportive, and a real credit to the smooth running of the castle.

Bamburgh Beach is literally a stone's throw away!

The ceremony was beautiful and as grand a setting as I expected. Afterwards, we did a few family photographs followed by some portraits and a sneaky trip to the beach which is minutes away. This worked well as it allowed the guests time to get back to Middleton Hall, so no one had time to report them missing!

Speeches followed the wedding breakfast, which was scrumptious by the way. Since the ceremony was a 5pm start, I stayed later into the evening to make sure I captured some dance moves. There was a slight hiccup which did get a few giggles. The evening entertainment pitched up at Middleton Lodge, a mere ninety miles away! But in true style, the party went on.

Thanks for having me along guys to the most memorable off Bamburgh Castle weddings. Here's a few from your amazing wedding day.

Are you looking for your own Bamburgh Castle wedding photographer?

I'll keep this short and sweet and not keep you away from the images for any longer!

If you're a couple currently on the search for your own wedding photographer for this iconic location, then feel free to get in touch. I'm honored to be a recommended wedding photographer for Bamburgh Castle.

You may have a question you'd like to ask, to check your date is free, or even enquire about wedding photography elsewhere. Whatever it may be, I look forward to hearing from you.I give you the wedding of Sarah & Franz. Enjoy!

Boturich Castle Wedding | Kate & James

I felt incredibly honoured to be asked to photograph Kate & James's Boturich Castle wedding on the banks of Loch Lomond. I've photographed a long line of siblings, cousins and friends of the family.  I arrive at these stunning venues and feel like one of the family.

It's great to see friends whom I've photographed in the last few years and all with their young families. I'm a lucky guy and can't stress how thankful I am to be a part of your journeys. Long may this special relationship continue.

A little about this stunning Scottish wedding venue

A Boturich Castle wedding is known as one of the best wedding venues in Scotland. When I arrived the day before to familiarise myself with the surroundings I quickly realised why. It was also a nice surprise to be greeted by a Geordie who happened to live and work there.

The castle sits loud and proud only a stone's throw away from the banks of the iconic Loch Lomond. It's a place of outstanding natural beauty and surrounded by mountains. Standing on the lawn you have the Highlands to your north west and the Trossachs to your north east.

A little on how I shoot a Boturich Castle Wedding

Being a documentary wedding photographer I shoot most of the day in an unposed and real time manner. With the exception of a handful of family formal photographs and a few portraits, I capture the day as it unfolds.

Choosing a documentary wedding photographer ensures you get to spend maximum time with your friends and family rather than fussing about photography. On the morning of their wedding I met with Kate and her bridesmaids inside the castle to capture the preparations. There was a little scare with an accident on the main road into the castle when a coach containing most of the wedding guests was diverted. Luckily, this resulted in only a minor delay.

Thankfully everyone arrived safely and in one piece and that included James, our groom. Kate and her bridesmaids looked stunning and James scrubbed well too! He enjoyed a wee swig from a hip flask with his groomsmen and that made for a lovely sequence of photographs. Thanks for having me along to your Boturich Castle Wedding. It was such a memorable day and I look forward to catching up with you guys again.

Are you looking for a Boturich Castle Wedding photographer? If you're planning your own wedding anywhere within the UK then feel free to get in touch. 

Dirleton Castle Wedding Photography - Becky & Roy

We'd like you to do our Dirleton Castle Wedding Photography and by the way, we'll be heading down to the coast afterwards and we'd like you to capture some of our wedding photos at Yellowcraigs beach. "It was an easy decision for me, a no brainer.  I'd decided not to stay the night before despite the 2 hour drive north on the morning of the wedding. Having lived in East Lothian some years ago the thought of cruising up that coastline early morning en route to photographing a castle/beach wedding was just too good to miss.

Becky and Roy are one of the most laid back couples I've had the pleasure to work alongside. The wedding itself was one of the most intimate I've captured, only 23 guests, mainly family and very close friends. What made it even more special was that Becky's mum conducted the ceremony, so as if getting married in a 400 year old fortress wasn't romantic enough, her mum being the one to marry her was a memory she'll never forget.

Dirleton Castle wedding photos are pretty unique!

After what was a truly beautiful ceremony, true to their word they organised two mini buses to ferry everyone down to Yellowcraigs beach. If you're wondering why the show of hands in the castle ramparts, I believe that was for the sake of gathering numbers for who was game for the beach! After an hour on the beach the same two mini buses that had collected everyone, failed to return!

If I can be trusted to shoot their Dirleton Castle Wedding Photography then I can be trusted to drop off a few guests. So with my white estate car, I made several trips back and forth until all the guests were safely back. I simply love weddings like this, they organised the day the way they wanted things to run, and at their own speed.

Instead of the traditional first dance and band/DJ, they opted for a few drinks and a game of "Truth." I hope you enjoy their little wedding story as much as I enjoyed capturing it.. For those on the search for their very own Dirleton Castle wedding photography or any other venue and you like what you see then why not get in touch?

Durham Castle Wedding Photography | Melissa & Gavin

Durham Castle wedding photos with Melissa & Gavin..

Melissa & Gavin’s Durham Castle wedding photography came with blue skies and sunshine on this gorgeous summer day. After meeting them to discuss their plans I was thrilled when they hired me. We opted for Blyth Beach in Northumberland for their wedding planning meeting and pre wedding photo shoot. It was a few months before their wedding and I remember we had a great shoot on the beach. We also utilised Blyth beach huts which have become a bit of an attraction in their own right.

Melissa and Gavin live in London and originate from the North East. Their ceremony took place in Whickham, followed by the wedding breakfast and reception at the castle. I remember the day very well as it was scorching hot and not a cloud in the sky. I remember drinking my bodyweight in water just to stay hydrated. It's tough enough carrying your equipment around for 10 hours but in 25 degrees summer heat it was a challenge to say the least.

Luckily after years of carrying everything but the kitchen sink on my back, I'm down to 2 cameras, and a few lenses. Now, running around all day ensuring I capture the best wedding photos at Durham Castle that I can, is far easier now that I’m lighter on my feet.

A brief history of Durham Castle

Durham Castle is a historic Norman castle situated in Durham, England. It dates back to the 11th century and was originally built as a fortress to protect the city and the surrounding area from invasion. Later on, it became a residence for the Bishop of Durham. Its stunning architecture and rich history make it a unique and very special venue for couples to exchange their vows. Getting married at Durham Castle is a majestic experience, with the ancient stone walls and grand interiors providing a sense of elegance and timelessness to the occasion. Couples who are fortunate enough to get married here are surrounded by centuries of history, adding a special and romantic atmosphere to their big day.

The day began at Melissa’s parent’s house where they got ready. We then headed to the church for their ceremony, and then to Durham Castle where they spent the rest of the day. Being so central in the city we took the opportunity to go for a little walk during the day which was lovely. Melissa & Gavin’s day was such a lovely occasion and I found them to be a joy to capture. It’s certainly a blessing to meet such nice people, and also their friends and families and share the day with them. Enough of me rambling, and onto their wedding photos.

Looking for Durham Castle Wedding Photography?

Are you looking for a wedding photographer for your Durham Castle wedding photos? Whether you're planning a wedding here or anywhere else within the UK, feel free to reach out to me. You can use my contact form or by simply clicking here.