Holy Island Wedding Photography | Danielle & Henry

Danielle & Henry's Holy Island wedding photography gives a lovely insight into a wedding day on this iconic island. Steeped in history and tradition, it's a place that brings back lots of childhood memories for me. As a Northumberland wedding photographer, weddings on Holy Island are few and far between. So as a result, when the opportunity came along to photograph Danielle & Henry's wedding, I jumped at the chance. Their wedding was a lovely mix which included a romantic church ceremony, strict Holy Island traditions (see pics) followed by the most amazing marquee reception. As is the case in the UK, there's a 50/50 chance of rain or sunshine for marquee weddings. Thankfully, we were blessed with sunshine, and it was glorious!

A wedding on Holy Island

The day started at Danielle's grandparent's house where her family met before the short walk through the village to the church. Danielle was escorted to the church by her stepfather and as they approached the church was met by her father. It was a beautiful moment to photograph and being such a lovely day, the crowds were also out to witness one of their own getting married. After a lovely church service we gathered in the Priory grounds to take a few photographs of the family before the walk to the marquee and onto the party.   

Photo opportunities on Lindisfarne

I’ve always said that wedding photography is all about the crowd rather than the location. That said, when you get a good crowd and a great location such as the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, well that’s a win-win! I never arrive at a wedding with an agenda of must have photos (with the exception of a list of family formals), but the thought of a few with Lindisfarne Castle as the back drop did peak my interest. Unfortunately, it was wrapped in scaffolding that had been erected to allow workers to replace the roof so pictures were limited. Nevertheless, Danielle & Henry did manage a short walk down to the harbour and we got some lovely photos of them on the beach.

Marquee wedding on Holy Island

The party was just as good as I imagined it to be. I did tell you at the beginning of this blog post that Holy Island brings back lots of childhood memories. Well Danielle’s uncle just happens to be one of my best friends who I met at school. So knowing how Neill likes a knees up, I knew the rest of the family would join in too and so they did. The weather was gorgeous and the guests were in fine spirits. I’ll hand you over to their Holy Island wedding photos as they tell the story a lot better than I could write it.

Your Holy Island wedding photography?

I was born and bred just a few miles north of Holy Island and I’m lucky enough to photograph weddings throughout Northumberland and the rest of the UK. If you’re looking for a wedding photographer for your own wedding, then feel free to get in touch.

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.

The Byre Inchyra Wedding Photography | Alex & Scott

The story "The Byre Inchyra wedding photography" actually began back in 2012 when I photographed Alex's sisters wedding. Little did I know that beautiful humanist ceremony by the water's edge would be the start of something so beautiful. Including that day, I believe I've now photographed nine weddings mostly of the family, and some of their friends.

In a world of likes, shares, follows, and comments on social media, nothing compares to good old word of mouth. To meet the family the night before their wedding and be welcomed with open arms as one of their own is a special feeling indeed. These beautiful people have travelled from as far as New Zealand and Hong Kong. They've all been married at the most magical of wedding venues throughout Scotland ranging from castles, marquees and rustic barns.

Award Winning Wedding Barn in Scotland

Set in 150 acres of private countryside, The Byre at Inchyra is a beautifully restored rustic barn. In their own words they describe their stunning Scottish venue as a blank canvas, expertly primed to create your own unique day. With the help of their talented wedding team, your day will be unique, down to earth and wow!

Walking around the evening before the wedding day I was blown away by the beauty of this place. Since the ceremony was an outdoor one, this called for a short stroll through the most amazing woodland to get to the walled garden. There were personal touches everywhere from the signage to the flower detail, nothing was left to chance. Now when in Scotland, one must be prepared for all weather eventuality. That being said, I genuinely believe this family have the sun dance nailed to a tee.

Talk about lucky when it comes to the weather, the sun just shines on these people constantly. After the ceremony and confetti we enjoyed a few drinks in the garden. The short walk back to the barn for dinner gave Alex, Scott and I a short window to grab a few portraits then before we knew it we were being clapped in for speeches. After the meal we got to the serious partying. Having spent so much time with these guys over the years I knew we were in for some dance moves. They did not disappoint!

The Byre Inchyra wedding photography

One thing I tell all my amazing couples is that the photography is really all about the people. Essentially what this means is I'm there to capture the story as it unfolds with no intervention from me. With the exception of a few family photos and a handful of couple portraits if you you want them, I'm shooting in real time. Call me an observer with a camera rather than a creative director on a styled photoshoot.

There were simply too many images to post them all in this short write up. That said, I do hope you get a sense of the magical day that was Alex & Scott's wedding. To Alex & Scott and your amazing family, you know who you all are. I'm so glad our paths have crossed on so many occasions. I hope to see you all again soon. Much love Phil x 

For those of you who are currently looking for a wedding photographer please feel free to get in touch.

Yorkshire Dales Wedding Photographer | Harriet & Jo

Looking for a Yorkshire Dales wedding photographer then check out Harriet & Jo's lovely marquee wedding in picturesque Redmire.  For couples planning their wedding in this beautiful part of  the world it doesn't get any better. Firstly, with its quaint little villages and sweeping landscapes the scenery is to die for. Secondly, there's an abundance of Yorkshire Dales wedding venues to choose from.

Harriet & Jo's beautiful day took place at her parent's country house. They opted for a luxury marquee in the garden grounds and the set up was nothing short of spectacular.  The views were to die for and her parent's gardens were immaculately groomed to perfection.

A marquee setting overlooking The Dales

Upon arriving at the house I met with Harriet and her parent's and whilst Harriet had her hair and make up applied I quietly began to document the day. Close by in the village, Jo and the lads were getting ready so I shot down there with Harriet's dad and captured some of the lads getting ready, having a beer and watching the footy.

Returning to the house, I captured the final details and Harriet in her dress who looked absolutely stunning.The ceremony took place at the local church and boy did the weather gods have a little surprise for us. The heavens opened to the most horrendous downpour which lefts guest and onlookers ducking for cover. Harriet and her dad arrived by horse drawn carriage and brollies awaited them on their arrival at the church.

Check out the super cool priest who was cheeky enough to grab a selfie with Harriet & Jo as they left the church a married couple. The day went from strength to strength. The rain stopped eventually and the wedding party made its way back to the house for drinks and a few photographs. The marquee was the perfect setting for speeches followed by the wedding breakfast, and later the reception.

Yorkshire Dales Wedding Photographer

I've posted a small selection of images from their day on my blog below. As far as weddings go this was up there with the best and I really struggled to pick the photographs as there were so many to choose from. You'll get a good sense of my style so if you're looking for a Yorkshire Dales wedding photographer for your big day, feel free to contact me.

Jervaulx Abbey Wedding Photography | Rachel & Pete

When Rachel & Pete invited me to shoot their Jervaulx Abbey wedding photography who knew what lay ahead for us all.

What an absolute pig of a year we've had, yet here we are in 2021 and having postponed once already due to the "C" word, it was finally time for these two beautiful people to tie the knot. The day may have not had the original numbers that were planned, however the magic number of 30 filled Jervaulx Abbey with their smiles alone.

This was my first wedding back after a particularly long spell away from weddings due to the pandemic. I won't lie, I was nervous, I convinced myself I was not alone. Much like anyone who'd been away from their team at work for so long it was only natural to feel this way. Only my team, are my couples, and their friends and family, and I have to say I had the best team to introduce me back to the world of photographing weddings. I thank you all for your warm welcome and friendly nature throughout the whole day.

The day started at Rachel's parents house, an equally beautiful setting for her bridal preps. Then it was off to Jervaulx Abbey for the ceremony, some daytime first dancing, drinks and nibbles. We then returned to her parent's garden later in the day for  more drinks, speeches and the wedding breakfast, in a very pretty and intimate garden marquee setting. 

Way back when Rachel originally hired me I was living in Newcastle. My family and I relocated to North Yorkshire during lockdown (crazy time to move I know, but true!), so as it happens the venue then became one that was practically on my doorstep.

A little background on Jervaulx Abbey

Set in the midst of the Yorkshire Dales, the dramatic remains of what was once a thriving abbey, captures the hearts of its visitors with its tranquil and peaceful ambience. Jervaulx Abbey certainly has a lot to offer for couples looking for a beautiful and intimate wedding ceremony. Being an exclusive venue means that you and your guests have the place all to yourselves. 

The abbey is open all year round from dawn til dusk. Not being part of English Heritage or National Trust means they rely on income from their weddings, an honesty box for visitors and also donations, for the upkeep of this beautiful location.

A little bit on Jervaulx Abbey wedding photography and me

Being a documentary wedding photographer means I record your wedding in real time, with minimal fuss or posing. Instead I tend to anticipate moments and will always be ready to capture them with my camera. I always work alone and often get mistaken by guests as another guest! Just how I like it.  Working this way means I can get in close to record real personalities and moments, after all, the pictures would look pretty boring if all I did all day was ask people to look into my lens.

This was my first time as a Jervaulx Abbey wedding photographer. Often couples who enquire with me ask if I've worked at their chosen venue before. After 15 years as a wedding photographer there's always a good chance that I have. Regardless of venue, my approach always remains the same, people first, venue a distant second.

Now to the pictures, I hope you like them. If you're looking for Jervaulx abbey wedding photography, or would like to discuss your own wedding anywhere in the UK, feel free to get in touch.

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. 

Marquee wedding photography in Northumberland | Kat & Dan

Kat & Dan's marquee wedding photography in Northumberland just about smashed the epic-o-meter!! This little adventure took me up to Embleton on the beautiful Northumberland coast.  It was an unusually warm day in May with a very welcoming sea breeze. The bride and groom preps took place in two holiday rentals literally next door to each other. Both were boasting the most stunning of views over to Dunstanburgh Castle.

The distance between preps, church and marquee was under five minutes on foot and that's the beauty of Embleton village. It's small but beautifully proportioned, and the ideal setting for Kat & Dan's big day. Despite the wind, we even managed a trip to the beach. The local golf club members weren't quite sure what hit them when 3 cars pulled up and a small army of dresses and suits piled out in front of them.

A short walk down to the beach and we captured some really cracking memories. Gopro cameras are quite the rage these days, 4k footage, easy peasy editing software and small enough to fit on bikes, ski poles, helmets and... A bottle of Luxardo Limoncello! I'd never witnessed a GoPro used in such a creative way, kudos to the brains behind this.

Planning your own marquee wedding photography in Northumberland?

The day was so much fun from start to finish. Kat & Dan were an amazing couple to work with. Not surprising that they have a great circle of friends and family who were equally amazingly fun to photograph and be around. For those planning their own marquee wedding photography in Northumberland or anywhere within the UK, please feel free to get in touch.

Farm Wedding Photographer Northumberland | Jen & Andy

What a day to be a farm wedding photographer in Northumberland for Jen & Andy’s fabulous wedding overlooking the River Tweed.

Since a high number of their guests were farmers that are used to a bit of rain, that didn't stop this party one little bit. I appear to be the official farm wedding photographer for this amazing group of friends and I'm so grateful to them all that they've continued to support and recommend me.

Jen was a bridesmaid for Clare, who's amazing wedding I photographed last year at Lennoxlove House near Edinburgh. So, this time it was Clare's turn to play bridesmaid and Jen's turn to play the beautiful bride, not that she had to try very hard as you'll see from her wedding images..  

The setting was Jen's childhood home and parent's farm just outside Berwick upon Tweed, set high on the banks of the very famous River Tweed. The river is a popular one with fly fishermen, (check out the table plan image down the page). As farm as farms go, the place was immaculate, credit to Jen's parents for all the effort they put into the preparations.

The house was surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens and at the bottom of the garden stood a huge marquee overlooking the River Tweed.Once I'd covered the girls' preparations it was a short drive to the church at Ladykirk, from where the ceremony took place.

Farm Wedding overlooking The River Tweed near Berwick upon Tweed

The church was pretty much bursting at the seems and the ceremony went without a hitch, Jen looked absolutely beautiful and immediately after their ceremony we enjoyed the only dry and sunny spell of the entire day. En route back to the farm Jen & Andy wanted a few portraits down by the river so we went off piste to a lovely spot literally right on the river bank.

So, with my new title as farm wedding photographer Northumberland I thought it only right that we included a few of the local livestock as well. Andy being a consultant for a farm management company, was a natural at rounding up the sheep for the photograph. Back on the farm we managed a few family photos before the heavens opened but by that time we'd taken care of all of the formals.

The speeches were fantastic, Andy's was one of the most moving of speeches I've heard in all of my career, luckily I had 2 big cameras to hide my eyes behind..

The party, well the party...Standard procedure for a farm wedding, when I say standard procedure, I mean just wild from the first dance and onward. Congratulations guys, and thanks for letting me be your farm wedding photographer.

Looking for a Farm wedding photographer in Northumberland? Phil Nunez has photographed countless farm weddings for this tight knit group of friends over the years. Get in touch.