I take a really natural approach to photographing weddings - I honestly just don't see any value in staged and posed photographs. To me, the aim is to document how it felt to be there on the day and to find all the little moments (that are, actually, really big moments) and photograph them in a way that showcases the connection you both have to each other, and to the people you've selected to be with you on your day. It's all about just documenting the celebration as it happened while making you look amazing in the process. The laughing, crying and everything in between - it's all as important to photograph.
When it comes to couples photos - I like to capture the way you are with each other; the way you hug, the way walk together, the way you look at each other. To me, those are far more important than any stiff, awkward pose. I think movement is beautiful and helps people feel relaxed and forget that I'm there.
Even though it's 'documentary' photography, that doesn't mean I'm silent and uninvolved at all. I actually find that by speaking and connecting with people, I'm able to help them feel more comfortable being photographed. This lets me capture really honest, unguarded emotion - something weddings are full of and something that adds depth and meaning to your story.
After you've been around people at weddings a lot, you get a feel for being in the right place at the right time. This isn't just for big moments like 'the kiss', or coming back down the aisle - it could be as simple as knowing when a speech was really heartfelt, and photographing what it means to different people. It can also mean knowing who is going to be 'shirt unbuttoned wedding-mosh-pitting' to Mr Brightside on the dance floor. Both are equally as important to capture.
