Crows Hall Wedding Photographer | Emma & Jonathan
It puts a real spring in ones step when receiving an email from a couple that goes along the lines of ‘We’ve seen your work online, love what you do and want you to come be part of our wedding - we’re not keen on the fuss of groups or portraits (well, maybe just a couple but we’re happy to be guided by you on this), just capture the day as it happens’! So it was with Emma & Jonathan, who asked me to be their Crows Hall wedding photographer a while back.
Wedding photography isn’t a simple, transactional thing. Ask any professional who has been at it a while and and they’ll tell you that our best work is way more than simply turning up on your wedding day in the hope of getting a few nice photos . Deep down, most of us see ourselves as artisans or craftspeople. A potter can easily shape a handful of clay into pot. But it’s only when an experienced, expert invests something of themselves into the process that it can become a thing of beauty and value.
Well, it’s the same with photography. We only value a photo if it gives us a sense of connection with the subject or transports us back to a time and place, evoking memories to be cherished. To achieve this takes time, empathy and being given the space to pour our skill, eye and artistic sense into your day. With the best will in the world, this is incredibly difficult if we’re given great long list of groups or ‘must have’ shots. If that’s your thing, that’s fine - my work probably isn’t your bag and if you ask around, you’ll find a photographer who can do that for you and be a perfect fit. However, if you’re wanting a more naturalistic and informal approach, I’m in!
Emma & Jonathan hosted their wedding at Crows Hall, near Debenham in Suffolk. It’s a truly beautiful place, a real hidden gem. The ceremony was at the village church with guests transported by a fleet of vintage vehicles. The wedding breakfast featured sharing platters served on long tables in the rustic barn followed by a rousing ceilidh. Lots of dancing, whooping and a’hollering! All in all, a perfect day - with just a couple of family groups and 3 minutes (yes, really), of portraits during golden hour adding up to a set of images which reflect the day and all its happiness. Also, a big shout out to Rich & Ellie of VT Films who were an absolute pleasure to work alongside and I thoroughly recommend!
If you’re planning your own Crows Hall wedding and would like a similar natural and unobtrusive approach to your photography, drop me a line! I’d love to hear from you and chat about your plans :-)
