Wedding Photography in Wiltshire

Overview of Wedding Photography in Wiltshire

Beautiful villages, rolling countryside, and historic venues - Wiltshire is a photographer's dream for capturing magical wedding memories. Wiltshire has many protected areas with beautiful natural scenery. This makes it a wonderful backdrop for pictures.

This county has many beautiful venues and excellent locations for photos. These include Syrencot, Grittleton house, The Pear Tree and the famous Stonehenge site and the beautiful gardens at Stourhead (the landscape garden is ideal for photos, but also have your photographer scope out the grottoes and temples on the grounds for surprising backgrounds). Couples have many great choices for wedding venues, like fancy manor houses, old barns, nice hotels, and even castles! It's no wonder [according to the UK Wedding Report, Wiltshire ranks among the top areas for destination weddings in the country]. With Longleat's famous safari park and vibrant cathedral city of Salisbury, it's the perfect setting for a documentary wedding photographer to capture your story.

Pro tip: If you are getting married at the Salisbury Cathedral venue, be sure to ask your photographer about getting some shots from the beautiful medieval cloisters for unique perspectives!

But with all this beauty, choosing the right Wiltshire wedding photographer is crucial. After all, they will be capturing those special moments into photos you'll treasure forever.

Importance of Professional Wedding Photography

Your wedding photos are more than just regular pictures - they are a valuable investment that will last. According to the latest UK Wedding Report from Bridebook, they found that 39% of couples wish they budgeted more for photography throughout Wiltshire (Unless they really enjoyed uncle's Bob's blurry bathroom selfies as mementos, that is, ha!). Why? Because those images become priceless mementos once the cake's been eaten and the dress put away.

A great wedding photographer takes photos that capture all the feelings and details of your big day with an artistic flare. This includes the joy, tears, laughter, and love. Skilled photographers have an eye for candid moments. They use creative framing and flattering lighting. This turns regular pictures into artistic storytelling of the story of your wedding day.

That's why hiring a true professional is paramount. You want someone who can make you feel at ease, guide you naturally, and most importantly, let you be fully present on your big day without photography worries. Attempting to cut corners by having a friend photograph could leave you sorely disappointed.

Tips for Choosing a Wiltshire Wedding Photographer

With so many photographers across Wiltshire, how do you find your perfect match? Here are some key factors to consider:

Look at Their Photos

Naturally, you'll want to absolutely adore their photography style and portfolio. But look beyond just pretty pictures. Do they consistently capture genuine emotions? Can you envision their artistic eye bringing your unique love story to life? The most important thing is that you really love their pictures and editing style. It may seem obvious, but if you want fun, candid photos of you and your partner dancing and celebrating at the party, look for a photographer who has nicely lit shots capturing that upbeat energy in their portfolio. But if you prefer more polished, magazine-quality editorial photos, then find photographers who specialize in that sleek, composed style.

Pro Tip: View one of their full wedding album preferably from any weddings throughout Wiltshire from start to finish to ensure you love their complete gallery - not just their portfolio highlights filled with endless bouquet close-ups and stray feet creeping into frames (I am just being hyperbolic, ha!).

Experience

An experienced Wiltshire wedding photographer knows how to handle unexpected problems. They can also deal with challenging lighting scenarios. They'll have insight into ideal photo opportunities at your fantastic wedding venues. Their experience and timing helps them documenting your wedding day perfectly. How long have they been photographing weddings? How many wedding shave they photographed?

Local expertise

With Wiltshire's varying landscapes from ancient stone circles to beautiful estates, it's invaluable to hire a photographer that is familiar with the region. An experienced local will know the best times of day and vantage points to for example capture the dramatic lighting and scenery. They'll also have insider knowledge of hidden gems for photos you may not find in generic location lists. It also helps if the photographer has been to your Wiltshire's wedding venue before (but it's not a deal breaker!) since they will know the best spots for your wedding photos. A locally-based photographer can suggest unique spots and vantage points you may not have considered.

Easy to Get Along With

Since your photographer will be shadowing you much of the day, compatibility is key! You'll want someone you get along with to capture your personalities shining through. The more comfortable you feel around them, the more relaxed you'll be in front of their camera on your special day. What matters most is being able to fully enjoy every moment without worrying about the photos. A photographer who shares your values and blends seamlessly into your celebration is more likely to help make that happen. You want someone you genuinely click with to capture those priceless memories exactly as you'll want to look back on them down the road.

"Having Carlos as our Wiltshire wedding photographer made us feel comfortable in front of the camera. That comfort level was invaluable for getting those natural, vibrant photos that captured our genuine emotions."  - Sarah & Jake, Syrencot

Packages and Prices

Of course, understanding their costs and services is vital. Be wary of rock-bottom prices that may mean low quality or not enough coverage time. But the most expensive option won't necessarily be the perfect fit either.

According to the the lastest Bridebook report, the nationwide average cost for wedding photography in the UK is £1,590. However, rates in Wiltshire can range from £1,200 for basic packages up to £3,000+ for an experienced photographer's premium all-day coverage. If considering adding a second photographer if you want a more comprehensive coverage including groom preparation, it will be an extra cost.

Ultimately, you get what you pay for - but the right photographer's value is priceless for gorgeous, cherished images.

Reviews

A photographer's reviews can reveal so much about their professionalism, responsiveness and end-product quality. Did they make clients feel at ease? Were they able to capture those big family group shots? Were couples satisfied with how they captured their day so perfectly?

Don't just look at star ratings. See if there are many good or bad comments that repeat.. A few less-than-perfect reviews may not indicate a dealbreaker, especially if they are outdated or from difficult wedding guests.

Moments a Photographer Should Capture on the wedding day

While each couple's wedding celebration is unique, there are certain shots no photographer should miss:

• Getting Ready - These often-overlooked quiet moments are filled with raw emotion and bonding, and the behind-the-scenes chaos of recreating that perfect lip tint seamlessly (as if! ha).

• First Look - That first loving, tearful glance is pure magic to capture

• Ceremony - From the groom's face as his bride walks down the aisle to exchanging rings and that first newlywed kiss

• Family Portraits - As much as you may dread wrangling everyone, you'll be grateful for these memories later

• Wedding Party - Silly, candid shots that show your nearest and dearest's fun personalities

• Couple's Portraits - With guidance from your photographer, you'll want frame-worthy artsy shots together

• Reception candids - From grand entrances to speeches, dances, cake cutting and pure celebration

While this covers many must-have slices of the day, your documentary photographer should always be at the ready to capture every beautiful moment too.

How Much Does Wiltshire Wedding Photography Typically Cost?

This is probably the biggest question for many couples. To find out typical costs, I did a lot of research on wedding photographer prices in Wiltshire earlier this year.

I looked at all the photographers listed on popular wedding websites like Bridebook and Hitched that showed their prices. For those that didn't list prices, I checked their website to see how much they charge.

I also checked out the first 5 pages that came up when searching for wedding photographers in Wiltshire. I added any price lists I could find to a spreadsheet.

For the photographers that didn't show prices online, I contacted them directly. Some shared their price information, while others didn't.

In total, I was able to get pricing from 53 different wedding photographers in the area - from lower-cost options all the way up to the high-end, best wiltshire wedding photographers.

The average prices I found just covered the photography services and digital images on the wedding day itself. It didn't include any extras like printed albums, engagement photo sessions, etc.

Understanding Packages, Pricing and Contracts

Most Wiltshire wedding photographer near me offer a range of packages, with coverage and products increasing at higher price tiers.  The coverage time is always continuous. This means the photographer will keep shooting without stopping the clock during times like driving between the ceremony and reception venues (except during your wedding breakfast). It's best to choose a package with as many total hours as you can afford. After your wedding, you probably won't wish the photographer took fewer photos.

Full-day wedding photography coverage typically starts around 8 hours of continuous shooting time. Wedding photography prices can range from £1000-£2000 for 6-10 hour long coverage! Let's discuss the coverage hours and have a general overview of standard options, but remember every wedding is unique:

• Basic Coverage (£1,000 - £1,300) - Around 6 hours of coverage, usually just the ceremony through formal portraits and couple's session

• Full-day (£1,300 - £2,000) - Includes photos of from your getting ready to an hour after your first dance.

• Extended full-day (£2,000 - £2,500+) - From the early getting ready morning through the end of the night's festivities, 12+ hours

• Add-Ons - A second photographer, engagement session, albums/prints, etc.

No matter how many hours you book, the photographer's goal is to fully document your entire wedding day without missing any special moments. Regardless which you choose, be sure to thoroughly review the contract's terms for things like:

• Specific hours/timeline covered

• Delivery timeline for edited images

• Printing rights and permissions

• Backup plans in case of illness/emergency

Don't make assumptions - get all understood expectations in writing!

Engagement and Pre-Wedding Photoshoots

Why Having a Pre-Wedding Shoot is Important

An engagement or "couple's" session is very valuable. Beyond just giving you some romantic photos, it helps:

• You get comfortable in front of the camera

• Your photographer learn how to best direct you

• Everyone establish a comfortable relationship

• Preview your photographer's editing style

Bridebook latest research shows 63% of couples highly recommend doing an engagement shoot. It ensures no awkwardness on the favourite wedding day itself, allowing you to simply relax and be yourselves for stunning results.

Locations in Wiltshire for an Engagement Shoot

Wiltshire has many pretty outdoor areas that make great backgrounds for your charming engagement photos:

• Avebury Stone Circle - The massive prehistoric monument in the village of Avebury

• Stourhead Gardens - The exquisite grounds of this National Trust property are a photographer's paradise

• Bradford-on-Avon - The romantic footpaths and historic buildings of this quaint market town

• Bowood House & Gardens - Striking architecture and impeccably landscaped gardens abound at this Georgian estate

• Castle Combe - The quintessential English village frequently used for period films and shows

• Cotswolds - A classic British landmark offering both rustic charm and open fields

For your engagement photo shoot, your photographer can go anywhere that's special to you as a couple. It could be the place where you first met, where one of you proposed, or just a favorite scenic spot you both enjoy visiting together. Maybe there's a meaningful location like a small town, pretty overlook, or even a hidden countryside area that you'd love as the backdrop. Your photographer is happy to travel wherever those meaningful places are. Don't be shy about suggesting locations that are tied to your unique relationship and memories. Having photos taken in those sentimental spots will allow your real connection and love story to show through the pictures.

Tips for a Successful Engagement Photoshoot

To get the most out of your pre-wedding session, I always suggest the following to every couple (I have a comprehensive guide that I send to all my couples a week before the session):

• Coordinate Outfits that you both love and feel confident in - it'll shine through in the images (No matching 'Mr & Mrs' embroidered sweaters from the in-laws allowed, ha!)

• Arrive Prepared - bring any personal accessories/props, fix hair/makeup shortly beforehand

• Try Different Poses - From playful to elegant, variety produces a beautiful gallery

• Interact Naturally - Snuggle, laugh, have fun! Those candid moments create the most cherished photos

• Voice Preferences - Don't be afraid to give feedback or suggest new locations across Wiltshire during the shoot

• Trust Your Photographer - They'll provide all the direction needed to capture you at your best

With a talented Wiltshire wedding photographer guiding you, your engagement photos will truly capture the genuine joy and excitement you both feel about getting married soon. The photographer will help put you at ease so you can relax and just be yourselves during the shoot. This will make it much easier to feel comfortable in front of their camera when the dream day arrives for all those amazing marriage celebration photos!

Finding the Right Fit

Whether you're looking for a Wiltshire wedding photographer based in Chippenham, Salisbury or anywhere in between, the key is doing your research. Word of mouth from recently married friends, combing reviews, and scrutinizing plenty of full galleries is wise.

A really good photographer will take the time to understand the unique vision you have for your stunning photos. Don't be afraid to meet with multiple photographers to understand their whole approach until you find someone you like. Look for a photographer whose stunning picture style and friendly, relaxed personality put you at ease.

Once you find that perfect match, you can breathe easy knowing your favorite wedding moments will be beautifully captured - whether it's moody skies scenes to rustic barn receptions, or any other special details. Those vivid images will allow you to relive those little moments with friends and family from your special day for many years to come. 

Are you looking for a Wiltshire wedding photographer?

If you're looking for a documentary wedding photographer to document your heirloom memories in Wiltshire, please get in touch. Wiltshire weddings are magical, whether in small cottages or big manors. I will help you capture every detail perfectly and tell the your story of your big day in the best way possible.