SNAP HAPPY

SNAP happyPHOTOGRAPHY Looking for the perfect snapper to get the shots you’ll cherish forever? We caught up with 10 Essex photographers to help you decide

www.aaroncroweweddings.co.uk

Who? Aaron Crowe Photography + Video Prices? £1,450 - £2,700 Contact www.aaroncroweweddings.co.uk Why me? “My grandfather was a wedding photographer, and I learnt a lot from him,” says Aaron. “I specialise in natural photography and videography, letting the day flow with no interference, bar a few group shots. I don’t like taking couples away from their guests for hours – I want them to enjoy the day and be surrounded by friends and family. For me, there’s nothing better than capturing images that evoke emotion. I’m also able to put my couples at ease and enjoy the day, which is a skill that can’t be taught. My work speaks for itself – and I can confidently say you will not be disappointed.”

Who? Chris Bradshaw Photography Prices? From £1,700 Contact www.chrisbradshaw.co Why me? “My wife, Laura, and I shoot weddings together, describing our style as unobtrusive and cinematic, with a focus on documentary and fine art,” says Chris. “The majority of how we shoot is very candid, but we guide our couples throughout the day and direct elements as needed. Being part of your celebration is by far the most rewarding part of wedding photography, and we’re continuously honoured people put their trust in us to document their day. If you’re looking for a down to earth and fun couple to document your story, then we’re the right guys for the job!” Who? Clare Kentish Photography Prices? From £1,800 Contact www.clarekentish.com Why me? “I tell couples my style is ‘hybrid’, which to me means I photograph in a style to suit your wedding,” explains Clare. “I love my job, as I get to explore castles, country parks and manor houses – and I also love how there’s no such thing as perfection when it comes to your day. Your cake might fall over, your flowers may wilt, and it may well rain! It really doesn’t matter, as at the end of the day you and your guests are there to have fun – and I’m there to capture that. I’m just a human, with a kick-ass sense of humour, short-person syndrome (bossy AF), and I’m pretty good at this photo-taking thing, too!”

www.chrisbradshaw.co

www.clarekentish.com Who? David Dean Photographic Prices? £1,950 - £3,250 Contact www.daviddeanphotographic.co.uk Why me? “My photography is natural and candid,” says David, “as I want to capture moments happening throughout the day. I try not to pose couples too much – I personally hate having my photo taken, so I try to take your photos how I’d want mine shot. I get to see people at their happiest, and it’s a real buzz to capture those moments of joy. Ultimately, the only reason to book any photographer is if you love their work and if you click with their personality. I’m passionate about what I do, and I don’t take for granted that this is the biggest day of your lives.” www.daviddeanphotographic.co.uk

www.daviddeanphotographic.co.uk

Who? Rob Moore Photography Prices? £895 - £1,695 Contact www.robmoorephotography.co.uk Why me? “I mix both reportage and editorial, which means for the majority of your day I let you enjoy your wedding first and foremost,” explains Rob. “You’re there to celebrate with loved ones, not just to have a photoshoot, so for around 20 minutes I’ll sneak you away for images you’ll only get from a professional. It’s such a privilege to be a part of your day, seeing everyone wearing their best clothes, eating the best food, and enjoying a great party. There’s so much love to celebrate, and being able to capture candid moments that you as a couple might miss are some of my absolute favourite shots.”

www.rosswillsherphotography.co.uk www.robmoorephotography.co.uk www.robmoorephotography.co.uk

Who? John Payton Photography Prices? £1,250 - £2,950 Contact www.johnpaytonphotography.com Why me? “Weddings are the ultimate event to photograph and film, says John. “A unique mix of emotion and spectacle, I’m 90% storytelling, 10% editorial. I document the key events as they happen, seeking out real moments, the character of the wedding, and what’s most important to my couples. I also have an eye for the beautiful, and as a portrait photographer I love to shoot intimate moments of you as a couple, plus portraits against gorgeous backdrops. Anticipation, emotion, laughter, and beauty – all of these are part of a wedding day, and I love to reflect those through my compositions.”

Who? Ross Willsher Photography Prices? £1,500 - £4,300 Contact www.rosswillsherphotography.co.uk Why me? “I capture moments that happen organically, with relaxed couple portraits and group photos,” says Ross. “I’m particularly passionate about being inclusive, working with couples who aren’t always seen in the wedding media. Your day is all about love and joy – and these two emotions are universal. I’m there to shoot any image that shows you with a genuine beaming smile, especially if you came to me with body confidence issues, a lack of self-belief, or anxiety about the wedding planning process as a whole. Seeing people fall in love with themselves as a result of my work is incredible.”

www.rosswillsherphotography.co.uk www.johnpaytonphotography.com

Who? Shianne Mercer Photography Prices? £1,300 - £2,500 Contact www.shiannemercerphotography.com Why me? “My style is best described as natural, emotive and story-telling,” explains Shianne. “I understand the importance of formal group portraits, but also like my photos to tell a visual story. I love that each day is different, and how each moment is a precious memory created on one of the most magical moments of your life. For me, the perfect shot isn’t that picture perfect portrait you see on Pinterest. My favourites are those that hold a sentimental value, forever. I always advise my couples to be themselves and enjoy their day, so I can capture them in their truest form.”

www.threeflowersphotography.co.uk www.shiannemercerphotography.com www.shiannemercerphotography.com

Who? Tom Halliday Photography Prices? £1,650 - £2,250 Contact www.tomhalliday.com Why me? “My style is modern wedding photography with a creative streak, making sure your personality shines through,” says Tom. “I love meeting new people, getting to know them and documenting the most awesome day of their lives. Capturing the emotional moments – along with the utter drunk chaos in the evening – is the best job in the world! Just be sure to trust your photographer’s judgement, not taking things too seriously and instead having fun and being yourself. Your photographer will be with you all day, so it’s important you feel comfortable with them, as that way you’ll get the best images.”

www.tomhalliday.com

www.threeflowersphotography.co.uk

Who? Three Flowers Photography Prices? A popular choice is nine hours with a second shooter for £1,800 Contact www.threeflowersphotography.co.uk Why me? “I remain as unobtrusive as possible, shooting the day as it unfolds,” says Charlotte. “My clients tend to be apprehensive about photos and look for a relaxed approach. Every wedding is different, with a range of spontaneous moments and conditions which allow me to be truly creative with whatever I’m given. It’s a privilege to document big moments in families’ stories. So much life unfolds at a wedding, but you won’t see it if you’re spending the whole day setting up shots. It’s a day you can’t get back, so live it – and let me capture its beauty!”

www.tomhalliday.com