Starting from Scratch: My Leap into Wedding Photography
My first year as a wedding photographer has been nothing short of a whirlwind—a journey of learning, growth, and unforgettable moments. Before diving into wedding photography, I was one year into my business as a family photographer back in the U.S. When I moved to the UK, I began with no connections but a passion for all types of photography. I was always told I needed to pick a niche, but I quickly realized that wedding photography encompasses almost every genre of photography—portrait, photojournalism, event, fashion, and even landscape photography. It felt like a perfect fit for me.
I also knew that Manchester, with its vibrant arts scene, offered plenty of opportunities in the photography industry. So, I decided to give it my all and start from scratch. I joined Facebook groups, reached out to photographers, and found an incredible amount of support. One photographer who really helped me early on was the amazing Nick Malone. He took me under his wing, answering all my questions (no matter how many times I bugged him). If it weren’t for Nick, I might have given up. His guidance taught me how crucial it is to step out of your comfort zone and connect with others in the same boat.
Booking My First Wedding
One of the pivotal moments of my first year came when I booked my very first wedding. It was through sheer perseverance. I was always active in Facebook groups, eager to be the first to reach out to brides searching for photographers. One day, a bride named Joddie loved my work—even though none of it was wedding-related. I insisted on a phone call, and we chatted about her wedding plans, my background, and the challenges of wedding planning. We bonded over the fact that I had just gotten married myself and could really empathize with the stress. That connection led to my first opportunity as a wedding photographer.
The Big Day: A Nerve-Wracking, Beautiful Experience
The day of Joddie’s wedding, I woke up early, double-checking my gear and pacing around the house. I remember driving to the venue, hands clammy, heart racing, wondering, “What if I mess this up?” But as soon as I walked into Joddie’s hotel room and saw her smiling face and the energy of her daughters, all my nerves disappeared. In that moment, I realized there was nothing to worry about. I love people, I’m good with them, and when I combine that with my photography skills, magic happens. The wedding went smoothly, and both Joddie and Dean were overwhelmed by the final product. It couldn’t have been a better experience for my first wedding.
Discovering My Passion for People
A significant realization this year has been uncovering my genuine love for people. Weddings bring families and friends together, full of joy, laughter, and love. Capturing those moments has reinforced how much I value connecting with others.
Each ceremony tells a unique story. As a photographer, I don’t just observe; I become part of the narrative. For instance, at one wedding, I could feel the emotion as the bride’s son cried out of joy when he officially gained a stepdad. Another wedding had guests laughing and dancing to "Rolling Down the River"—I was right there with them, capturing the excitement. The bonds I’ve forged with couples and their families have made my work even more rewarding.
Navigating the Challenges of Wedding Photography
The wedding photography industry is unpredictable—changing weather, tight schedules, and last-minute changes can throw a wrench in the day. Overcoming these challenges has been essential to my growth.
I’ve learned that being prepared and adaptable is key. At one wedding, during bridal prep, nobody was able to lace the bride’s dress, and it was starting to cause a delay. I had to put my camera down and take control of the situation because stress was beginning to fill the room. I reassured the bride that everything was going to be okay and told her to take deep breaths. With that, I managed to get everyone relaxed and helped the bride into her gown. It was a moment that taught me the value of maintaining a calm demeanor when things get hectic. Weddings can be stressful, especially for couples navigating unexpected hiccups. My role is not just to take pictures; I strive to be a support system. This year has taught me that with the right mindset and determination, every challenge can be turned into a beautiful moment.
Finding Inspiration Everywhere
Throughout this journey, inspiration has been abundant. From stunning sunsets to a couple's unique love story, even the warmth of family gatherings fuels my creativity. I continuously learn from watching other photographers’ work, attending workshops, and exploring new techniques through YouTube videos.
Photography often blends ideas and experiences, and I’ve come to appreciate the power of natural light, candid shots, and the delicate balance between artistic composition and genuine emotion. Every wedding presents an opportunity to experiment with my style. Whether it’s a small elopement or a grand celebration, I’m constantly refining my approach and finding new ways to capture love.
Embracing Growth
Growth has been a central theme in my first year. I’ve evolved both as a photographer and as a person. Each challenge has pushed me toward self-improvement.
With each wedding, I’ve honed my technical skills, like mastering manual settings and editing techniques. But beyond the technical, I’ve learned valuable lessons in perseverance and patience. After a wedding where time for portraits was limited, I had to work quickly and efficiently to capture stunning images in just five minutes. I’ve learned to trust my skills, and the results have always been worth the nerves.
Looking Ahead: New Adventures in Wedding Photography
As I reflect on my first year, I’m filled with gratitude for the lessons I’ve learned and the people I’ve met along the way. This journey has reinforced the value of connection, adaptability, and passion.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue my growth as a photographer and capture more love stories. Every wedding is a new adventure, and I’m eager to see where this journey will take me.
Ultimately, my goal is to capture the essence of love in all its forms, creating timeless memories that couples will treasure forever. Here’s to more weddings, more laughter, and more moments waiting to be captured.
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