A village hall wedding in North Yorkshire | Harriet & Sam

Harriet & Sam’s village hall wedding in North Yorkshire was such a beautiful summer’s day set against the most stunning backdrop of the North York Moors. When they originally got in touch they hadn’t realised that I actually lived in the same village so this was a really pleasant coincidence.

Myself and my family had moved into the village of Kirkby in Cleveland in late 2020 and our back garden literally looks onto the village church. To say I was excited and honoured to be photographing my first wedding in our home village was an understatement.

Back in February of this year Harriet & Sam had gone trail running over the hills above our village which some will know forms part of the Cleveland Way, a circular route well known throughout the North York Moors and coastline. Only on this day, Sam decided to get down on one knee and propose! You’ll notice ‘their hill’ features in a few of the images you’re about to see.

Guard of honour and a flypast!

It’s fair to say the day was a military wedding. Sam, his best man and a lot of their friends are all serving officers in the RAF, Army & Navy so we had a few traditions which included a guard of honour and an RAF chinook flypast. Yes, you read that right!

A few classic cars were also a strong feature. Harriet’s father who previously served as a SAR pilot in the RAF had the cars looking pristine on the day. Our local church Reverend Anne conducted the most beautiful service, followed on by a few words by Sam’s station Padre. The reception took place in the village hall just a short walk from the church where the celebrations continued into the evening.

Harriet & Sam, thank you for putting your trust in me. You both were effortless in front of camera and a joy to be around. I just want to add your friends and family welcomed me with open arms and were a pleasure to spend the day with and photograph.

If you’re looking for a documentary wedding photographer in North Yorkshire or anywhere within the UK feel free to get in touch.

Thanks for dropping by my website.

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.

Danby Castle Wedding Photography

Searching for Danby Castle wedding photography then feel free to head this way. I'm Phil, a documentary wedding photographer of nearly 15 years. My wife and I, along with our 2 beautiful daughters and cute little Frenchie recently moved to North Yorkshire. We longed for the country life and realised life was too short to delay any further so we moved from Newcastle down to a cute little village close to the North York Moors National Park.

10% Discount for any Danby Castle wedding photography bookings for weddings in 2024.

Yes you heard that right! Anyone booking a full day wedding photography package with me for Danby Castle for their 2024 wedding then you’ll automatically receive 10% discount. You can see a ton of my work at various locations throughout the UK by browsing my website. If you have any questions, want to say hello then I'd love to hear from you. If you've stumbled across this post by accident whilst looking for a wedding photographer for another venue then by all means get in touch.

I shoot weddings throughout the UK, and have been based near Newcastle all of my career. As a result a lot of my weddings are around Newcastle and Northumberland and long may they continue. However, now that we're down in North Yorkshire I'd love to shoot more weddings in this beautiful part of the world so here I am!

Natural, unposed, documentary, reportage, storytelling..

Above are a few buzz words that really best describe my style. If you're looking for lists of staged photos, or ask to send me a mood board full of Californian sunsets then I'm probably not for you. If you're looking for fly on the wall documentary photography that comes with bundles of love, laughter, tears, emotion and real moments then I'd love to hear from you.

Danby Castle in the North Yorkshire Moors

Danby Castle wedding photography. Think 14th century castle ruins or a 16th century courtroom as the setting for your wedding venue. Danby Castle can cater for indoor and outdoor wedding ceremonies. It's nestled within the North York Moors National Park and comes with jaw dropping vistas as standard.

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.

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. 

Rudby Hall Wedding Photography

Francesca & Adam's Rudby Hall wedding photography gives a beautiful insight into a wedding at this luxury Grade II listed Georgian house. Rudby Hall is a luxury wedding venue nestled in its own private grounds near Hutton Rudby in North Yorkshire. It's easily accessible from the A19 and also boasts excellent air and rail links. According to their own website you can even arrive by helicopter!

With gated access, beautiful gardens and 13 luxurious suites, Rudby Hall is entirely yours throughout your wedding celebration. This beautiful Grade II listed Georgian home lends itself to smaller more intimate weddings of between 30 to 100 guests.

Rudby Hall wedding photography - My style

Without going all wordy on you guys my style is more relaxed and candid rather than posed and set up. Couples who hire me tend to prefer real moments and I've been blessed to be entrusted to capture these moments for over 13 years.

I'm happy to quietly move around the crowd capturing the moments that you yourselves may have missed. Not forgetting, those key moments that are more traditional throughout a wedding day such as getting ready, the ceremony and speeches etc.

With the exception of a few pics with mum & dad and a handful of couple portraits if you'd like some, I'm documenting the day in real time as it unfolds. Francesca & Adam's day was a smasher from start to finish. I'm blessed to spend the day with so many wonderful couples and these guys were no different.

Enough of me rambling on and onto the Rudby Hall wedding photos. Have you booked this amazing venue for your own wedding? Well as it happens I only live 17 minutes away so it's fair to say I'm pretty local! If you're looking for a wedding photographer to capture your big day, why not get in touch?

Middleton Lodge Wedding Photography | Lucy & Jake

Lucy & Jake's Middleton Lodge wedding photography.

The day came with guns, fast cars, a smooth groom and a beautiful bride. I remember being strangely nervous since I hadn't actually met Lucy & Jake in person, only in the virtual world of Skype. The plan was to hook up with the boys shooting clays first thing in the morning. We were lucky with the weather. Being October in the UK, it was always going to be a lottery. Thankfully, we hit lucky and the guys were already hard at it when I made my way over the muddy field.

The chaps were all kitted out with wellies and gilets. As soon as I met Jake, I immediately felt at ease. A gent of a man, and clearly loving mixing with his troops, who were equally fun to be around. Whilst the lads shot it out, I ducked and dived and captured a few frames, before heading over to the main building to catch the girls getting ready.

As I approached the light came good and so I grabbed a lovely shot of the main entrance. It's been a while since I last photographed a Middleton Lodge wedding. I had no recollection of the staff, but within seconds I was reminded at just how wonderfully warm and welcoming they are. On arrival at Lucy's room, I was greeted with the biggest round of smiles and laughter you could imagine. I must have counted only minutes being in there and the bubbly was open.

Main House & Garden Marquee at Middleton Lodge

The ceremony itself took place in the local church just five minutes down the road. As I tend to do I hooked a ride with the bridesmaids and headed off to catch the rest of the day. After a beautiful service we headed back to Middleton Lodge. Jake being the true gent, chose to drive back with his wife in his old Porsche Carrera in classic red. A real beauty of a car and a fitting way to transport a very beautiful Lucy.

Upon arrival back at Middleton Lodge the wedding team had prepared a beautiful drinks reception in the main house. When everyone had gathered downstairs, Lucy & Jake made their grand entrance down the beautiful spiral staircase that is a real feature at Middleton Lodge. During the speeches, there were some emotional words from Lucy's father, followed by the some extremely funny words and exchanges from Jake and his best man. The party in the marquee afterwards was a hoot, as I expected it to be.

What a beautiful day had by all, and a most beautiful couple. Thanks for having me along guys, I wish you a long and happy future together.

Are you planning Middleton Lodge wedding photography of your own?

I do hope that you enjoy Lucy & Jake's Middleton Lodge wedding photos. You'll hopefully see that my style is very much documentary. A Documentary wedding photographer is also known as a reportage wedding photographer. They're very similar in makeup, with the aim being to photograph candid moments rather than posed. That's not to say I don't shoot semi posed photographs.

Most couples request a few portraits and I always encourage you to have a few close family formal photographs too as in my experience these photos are extremely sought after by your parents. If you like what you see, then why not get in touch? 

Mount Grace Priory Wedding Photography - Frances & Mike

When Frances & Mike got in touch and asked me to cover their Mount Grace Priory wedding photography I was only too happy to accept the invitation.

Having never photographed at Mount Grace Priory before I was excited at the prospect of documenting a wedding at such a beautiful venue. Located in North Yorkshire and owned by the English Heritage, the Priory is steeped in history, and is a popular visitor attraction with tourists. The day started off at the beautiful St. Georges church in Middleton St. George just outside Darlington. After a most lovely service, it was a pleasant drive through countryside and down to Mount Grace Priory.

English Heritage site in North Yorkshire

The weather was beautiful, cloudy but sunny. However, shortly after we arrived and not long after I had just finished photographing the family formals, the sky turned black in the most spectacular fashion, and the heavens opened. Selfishly, I thought the contrast in weather conditions made for some amazing Mount Grace Priory wedding photography. From gorgeous light, to the moodiest of skies, to the guests fleeing for cover to get out of the driving rain storm. I love a good wedding story!

There was one slight disappointment however, Frances & Mike had prayed for a dramatic sunset so I could shoot a few frames of the newly weds stood under the ruins of the Priory. What made the matter worse was the huge spotlights that help to illuminate the Priory weren't on at that particular time, so with a little bit of planning and some cheeky positioning of an off camera flash gun, we created our own sunset..

North Yorkshire wedding photographers

Here's the tale of Frances & Mike's amazing wedding day.. If you're currently looking for a wedding photographer I'd love to hear from you. I'm a North Yorkshire wedding photographer offering my couples creative images but without too much in the way of posed and contrived photographs. Please feel free to get in touch.