Field Photographic

Serena & Richard's Wedding at Breadsall Priory

2012-02-23T13:52:00.000Z

We were off to the leafy outskirts of Derby a while ago to visit the wonderful Marriott Breadsall Priory for Serena & Richard's civil wedding. They had an East-West mix of a day in the glorious early autumn sunshine.

We started off with a sneaky visit to the room where Serena was getting ready.

Not staying too long and trying not to get in the way, we popped off to find Richard, who was all ready to go.

When we went back to visit Serena, the transformation was complete. Amazing!

Being regular visitors to Breadsall Priory, we know the registrars very well, and have developed a good working relationship with them, so they allow to spend some time right at the front during the ceremony if the couple choose, knowing that they can trust us not to intrude.

That gets us great shots like these:

After the ceremony we were back outside in the beautiful sunshine, making the most of the gardens.

Looking through the following shots, it's hard to believe that Breadsall Priory is only four miles from the heart of Derby city centre.

We were quite amused to learn the Serena & Richard first met when he was teaching her Thai Kickboxing. In fact we jumped on the opportunity to make the most of this in their pre wedding portrait session. Check out our stunning couple a few weeks before the wedding in our studio!

Congratulations Serena & Richard, it was a real pleasure!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Tara & Ian's Wedding At Breadsall Priory

2012-01-27T19:00:00.000Z

It was a slightly cloudy but otherwise perfect autumn day for Tara & Ian's civil wedding at the Marriott Breadsall Priory back in October.

'Purple' and 'Cars' were to be the theme of the day, but oddly, no purple cars. Anyway, we dropped in to see the ladies in the morning to check up on progress, and the shot below of Tara, her mum, and bridesmaids pretty much sets the mood for the whole day.

We grabbed a lovely moment when Ian sent over a shot of the Ford Mustang to prove it was all ready for picking Tara up later on. That's one bouncy bride-to-be!

These are some seriously funky shoes. Respect due.

We continued the petrolhead theme when shooting the guys over at Breadsall, who happily posed with the Sierra Cosworth they arrived in.

This was soon to be joined by a very swift looking Ford Focus carrying Tara's bridesmaids.

Tara outdid them all though, when she arrived, growling and grumbling down the long Breadsall driveway in a stunning Ford Mustang.

It was soon time to be concentrating on other things as everybody got ready for the ceremony.

After the wedding, we took a walk out in to the gardens for some photographs, and the couple's lively dogs joined us for a run around too!

Tara didn't want to ignore those lovely cars for too long though, and I just had to get a shot with the colour coded umbrellas that were brought along in case of rain.

We even took a little drive away from the main building to get a shot with a view of the priory, before Tara and Ian were whisked away for a spin round and some time to relax for a while.

We soon put them back to work when they arrived back and took a little time to get some nice relaxed looking shots of them together, making the most of the lovely Autumnal colour everywhere.

There seemed an over-abundance of great confetti throwing shots, so rather than have to choose just one, we decided on a montage.

Tara and Ian, we had a wonderful time sharing your day with you, thanks for having us along and being great subjects. Congratulations!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Helen & Chris' Wedding at Stoke Rochford Hall

2012-01-20T20:35:00.000Z

Helen & Chris chose quite a rare thing - a venue that we weren't too familiar with, so I arrived in good time at the amazing Stoke Rochford Hall in the morning to have a good old scout around and pick my favourite spots, and hatch my plans for later.

Things were already set up for the ceremony.

After sampling the coffee it was time to check on the ladies' progress up in the room. All was looking good!

Downstairs, the guys were doing a good job with buttonholes too. And look what they got to play with when they were all dressed and smart!

Back upstairs things were coming together nicely, but it seems little people were already showing signs of stress! Luckily, everybody stayed in a good mood.

It's not many times in the course of ordinary life that most folks utter the words 'Cor now THAT'S what I call a staircase', but it seems to happen to me quite a lot. Today was another one of those days.

We love the windowlight coming from all directions on this shot of the bridal party waiting for the Bridal to make her entrance.

Finally it was ceremony time, and we got a fab spot by the registrars for Helen's arrival, after which I quietly shuffled to the back so as not to intrude. Check out the view we get from the back below!

Although we respected the registrar's wishes for us not take shots during the register signing, I did manage to grab a sneaky shot from the back with the long lens, just after the paperwork had been completed.

Although it seems that not everybody was filled with the same sense of excitement and romance at this point.

Below is the shot I'd been plotting and planning for since arriving earlier that morning. Sort of a 'Cor, now THAT's what I call a doorway' type shot.

We went on to get some family shots organised before the weather spoiled our fun and sent us all scurrying inside to wait out a shower.

After the rain had blown over, Helen led everybody pied piper style back out to the terraces for a crowd photograph.

Cor. Now that's what I call a wedding breakfast room.

Congratulations Helen & Chris!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Lizzie & Matt's Wedding at St Werburgh's Church & Masa.

2012-01-13T13:56:00.001Z

Our first proper blog post of 2012, we're going to tell you all about Lizzie & Matt, whose wedding we got to shoot back in September last year. First up was a visit to make sure everybody was getting on OK at home.

Lizzie was getting ready a stone's throw from the church, so we were able to have a walk over to meet the fellas arriving, and STILL go back to shoot the bridal party leaving home, and walking over to church in convoy.

We got a few discreet shots of the bridal party getting ready for the service, and then settled into our spot at the back of church for the ceremony.

How lovely it was then, that the Minister actually took the trouble to suggest that we come down to the front of church to get a few shots over his shoulder! Usually we prefer to intrude as little as possible, indeed usually, photographers are seemingly only barely tolerated by the clergy at weddings, so this was a lovely gesture, and it got us this lovely shot, thank you.

We then returned to the back of the church, where there was an excellent surreal 'child in deeley-boppers' photo opportunity. We took said opportunity :)

We then made our way outside to organise a few family photographs before taking Lizzie and Matt for a wander round on our photo walk. Below is our organised groomsman checking who's up next!

Above is one of my favourite shots from the day, lit with zoomed in flash to overpower the daylight slightly and toned down to a more muted, vintage style look.

After some documentary style shots, mostly of the children up to shenanigans, we organised a confetti throwing photograph.

We finished the day at Masa, an old Wesleyan Chapel converted to a swish restaurant and wine bar for the couple to settle in to their reception.

Congratulations Lizzie & Matt!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Kimberley & Anthony's Wedding at Horsley Church & Morley Hayes

2011-12-19T21:11:00.001Z

With no getting ready photographs to shoot, we started today at the beautiful St Clements Church awaiting everybody's arrival for Kimberley & Anthony. First we saw Anthony & his dad Tony, who was also his best man.

To be followed by Kimberley, her dad, and her bridesmaids.

We made sure to be around to get this lovely angle of the Bride and her father entering the church, and stayed at the back get a sneaky shot of the children's play corner - perfect for keeping little people entertained during the ceremony.

Some of my favourite shots from the day were the wonderfully atmospheric photographs taken in the vestry, as the registers were signed.

During the family photographs we always keep an eye open for any nice informal shots, and grabbed this one of one of our bridesmaids in mid contemplation.

There's a little used area in the corner of the churchyard that overlooks the lovely surrounding valley and woodland, so I talked Kimberley and Anthony into a walk down there, for a nice profile shot in semi-silhouette.

Just before we left we had the privilege of taking a portrait of Anthony's grandparents, who were celebrating the anniversary of their own wedding that day, at the exact same church, 61 years earlier. Here's their updated wedding portrait.

Not only does this white wall make a great natural reflector in the shade of a house, but also serves as a funky high-key backdrop!

Then the bridesmaids were being all cute. Again!

Then we were off to the always wonderful Morley Hayes to meet the rest of the wedding party for the reception. Since the cars were in the family, we had to get a line up photograph.

Below are two very different views of the exact same spot.

Congratulations Kimberley & Anthony!

www.fieldphotographic.com

www.morleyhayes.com

Paige's Portrait Session. In The Shed.

2011-12-16T20:09:00.000Z

It's a little known fact that we have a company shed, and every now and again we use it for photo sessions.

It's sort of a nice antidote to the funky lively high colour sort of shots we do in the studio with our white background.

Today we were shooting Paige, and the feel of the session was very chilled, with muted, vintage style colours and rustic borders for the finished images. Cheesy grins were optional, being largely replaced by wistful into-the-distance gazes, producing some fantastic natural shots.

www.fieldphotographic.com

Carrie & Anthony's Wedding at Morley Hayes

2011-12-07T12:30:00.000Z

Back in September we were over at the delightful Morley Hayes to be shooting our friend Chan the Magician at his wedding to his lovely Bride Carrie.

We've known Anthony some years now and every time we see him, he always has an amazing new trick to show us. Today's wedding had a funky magic card trick theme, even the Groom wore four suits. Sorry.

We made a couple of stops to get a few shots of both the Bride and the Groom getting ready, before popping off to Morley Hayes.

Shots during the ceremony were from a good distance back, peeping through an arch from a separate room. A good long lens got us this lovely close up.

We organised the family shots while keeping an eye open for some nice informal, candid type shots too, and sure enough, the children didn't disappoint!

Anthony just had to squeeze in a trick or two before we went for a wander off around the lovely gardens at Morley for some more shots.

We've grown to love this bench for it's photogenic style and we also love this moody dramatic shot which proves that we don't always need perfect blue sky and sunny weather to get great shots.

Below is the brand new dome in the wedding garden, which will be playing host to outdoors weddings next summer.

We made an appearance for a few shots in the evening of the first dance and a cool caricature artist working the room before leaving the crowd to their partying.

Congratulations Anthony & Carrie!

www.fieldphotographic.com

http://www.anthonychan.co.uk

www.morleyhayes.com

Kathryn & Param's Wedding at Breadsall Priory

2011-11-30T16:30:00.000Z

There's a different look to the shots on here today, a definite exotic Eastern feel...

Sorry, I've spent ages thinking how to describe today's wedding shots without using a cliche, but I have to say it.

It's an 'East meets West' blog post today.

More of that there dress later on, but first we had some shots to get sorted of Param and the fellas arriving.

Eventually, after much preparation, Kathryn arrived looking stunning...

Kathryn & Param liked all of the more informal, documentary style shots we showed them, so that was approach we took throughout the their day.

The couple's young daughter joined them as a bridesmaid, but couldn't quite last the whole photo session, so we left her having a snooze on Grandma while we got some shots around the gardens in the glorious sunshine.

To finish up we managed to get a few smiles from mother & daughter, rounding off lovely day with a truly lovely couple.

Many congratulations Kathryn & Param!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Melinda & Richard's Wedding at Quarndon & Derby

2011-11-27T17:00:00.000Z

We're in a Sepia toned sort of mood here today, and that may just show through in the photographs here. It was back in August when we visited Mel & Richard for their wedding at the lovely Quarndon Church, beginning first at home in Little Eaton.

Sometimes you can't beat getting in really close to show the almost abstract lines in the detail of a dress.

We hung around a short while until folks were starting to look like they were about ready, then, sandwich in hand courtesy of Mel, we bumbled over to church to see the chaps. Amazingly, when we arrived, they were striking this pose without any request from me.

OK, no they weren't.

Mel was super organised and had everything ready to make sure nobody was left seat-less.

Outside I managed to steal a lovely shot of a contemplative bridesmaid amid the hustle and bustle.

Then Mel arrived, and off we went.

Although it doesn't strictly feature a wedding happening, this is my fave shot from during the ceremony.

Then came the part I was really looking forward to, we took a break from the norm. While most of the guests made their way to the reception, Mel & Richard led close family and friends on a 2 minute drive, followed by a 10 minute walk up to a local beauty spot called Bunker's Hill.

Yes, 10 minutes walking along through woods, country paths, fields, and over stiles in a wedding dress - usually I would have to beg and plead with a Bride to do this and not expect a positive answer, but here was Mel insisting we all troop off! Some folks even brought their boots. This was my kind of afternoon :)

Apart from being absolutely lovely up there, it was also the place where the couple got engaged, and where Mel spent some of her childhood days playing, so it was really nice to make the detour and spend some time admiring the amazing views over Derbyshire.

"I can see my house from here!"

And guess what, we could see Mel's house, and her old Gran's place too. Wonderful.

After our walk in the countryside, we arrived in good time at the reception for drinks, speeches and dinner. Job well done.

Congratulations Mel & Richard!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Laura & Andy's Wedding at Kedleston Hall & Breadsall Priory

2011-11-23T14:19:00.000Z

Getting to photograph at Kedleston Hall is always a bit of a treat it has to be said, so we were looking forward to the 12th August for Laura & Andy's big day there. Check out the amazing artwork by Laura & Andy's friend for their invites:

And the stunning flowers:

And the stunning, erm, fellas!

After which, the (even more) stunning bridesmaids arrived...

And while we're talking about stunning, how's this for the Bride making her entrance.

The saloon at Kedleston Hall always deserves the wide angle lens treatment, in this case we went right in to the max with the 15mm fisheye.

After ceremony we let everybody exit to the lawn while we snuck back inside to get a shot in the marble hallway.

We made a good trek around the grounds to get some amazing shots before making our way over to Breadsall Priory.

Congratulations Laura & Andy!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Verity & Matthew's Wedding at Makeney Hall

2011-11-04T20:43:00.000Z

It was another trip to the lovely Makeney Hall Hotel a few weeks ago to spend a fun filled and colourful afternoon with Verity and Matthew for their late summer wedding.

Verity and her bridesmaids spent some time getting ready upstairs in the bridal suite, so that was our first stop. We had to grab a shot to show off the back of Verity's dressing gown - just in case there was any doubt about who was in charge!

The beautiful summery bouquet perfectly matched the theme of the day...

Finally it was time for a finished off, full on glam shot.

After the ceremony, we were on hand to capture a few documentary style shots while the couple signed the registers, then we were all off outside to enjoy the weather.

We also managed to sneak off from the camera wielding crowds to get a few shots of the couple in the midst of the amazing Derbyshire countryside.

Then it was back inside to see the room set up just before dinnertime, and a shot of quite possibly the cake of the year:

Many congratulations Verity & Matthew!

Chloe & Will's Wedding in York

2011-10-13T14:31:00.001+01:00

I got a treat at the end of July - a new venue to visit in a new city, with a cool couple who said I could shoot pretty much how and what I wanted at their wedding. So it was off up the motorway to one of my favourite places - York.

We started at the lovely little register office on the edge of the city with Will and his best man arriving, shortly to be followed by Chloe and her young maid of honour.

There were some last minute preparations just before the Bride made her entrance...

After the ceremony we grabbed some family photographs in the gardens, before starting our walk through York to the reception venue.

It was during our wanders around the city that I planned to get as many shots taken as I could talk them into - including a shot of the couple being dwarfed by York Minster.

The shot below is a first. Never before have we got a wedding photograph which actually features the Starbucks that I visited after the wedding photographs were shot... Extra large extra shot iced latte.

And I'm fairly sure that below is our first ever shot of a beautiful Bride posing by the front door of the Lloyds TSB Bank :)

Chloe & Will, we had a blast, thanks for being great subjects and humouring me and my crazy requests all afternoon!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Chloe & Michael's Wedding at Aston on Trent & Colwick Hall

2011-10-06T11:39:00.000+01:00

We clocked up some miles visiting Chloe & Michael for their special day at the end of July! First off it was all systems go at Colwick Hall where Chloe and her party were getting ready.

Then it was time to head over Aston on Trent to drag the boys out of the pub before the Bride arrived :)

We had a good old wander around to capture some nice informal shots of everybody arriving, including Chloe looking stunning, and Millen, our long suffering and well fussed over page boy!

After the ceremony we made time to visit the amazing willow tree behind the church before heading off back to Colwick for a chilled out reception and more informal shots of the couple and guests. See below for a great way of keeping the young ones amused...

We finished up with a quick shot to show off the grand staircase at Colwick Hall before leaving everybody to settle down for dinner.

Congratulations Chloe & Michael!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Amanda & Phil's' Wedding at Shottle Hall

2011-10-02T16:21:00.000+01:00

It's always a pleasure to find ourselves spending the afternoon at the gorgeous Shottle Hall and today, the weather was on our side (for once) also.

First we said hello to Phil and his best man, before heading up to Amanda's room to check on her progress. It was good to see Amanda's dad making himself useful :)

After tea we grabbed this gorgeous high key shot and had a float around to capture proceedings.

During the ceremony we shot from a discreet distance at the back, which gives us prime position for THAT kissing picture!

Although not everybody was as captivated by the ceremony as us:

After the couple were well and truly wedded, we gathered everybody in the garden for our regular 'hanging out the bedroom window' crowd shot. This is so popular with our couples because it provides a nice informal way of getting everybody on a shot without us having to stand people in line time after time.

For some, it was then time for a well earned 'Fruit Shoot' break.

And a go on Angry Birds.

For us, it was time for a good old wander around to make the most of the stunning gardens and scenery around the Hall.

Just when I thought they had just about had enough posing and wandering, Amanda & Phil suggested a walk even further around to get these shots. Result!

We absolutely love these cakes. Stunning!

I think that just about says it all. Congratulations Amanda & Phil!www.fieldphotographic.com

Get Christmas Packaged Up. Our Special Offers for 2011...

2011-09-30T16:10:00.002+01:00

RIGHT THEN! It's that time to be thinking about Christmas again. We've been all excited and bouncy in the studio today because we've been designing our Christmas special offers.

Yes. Offers. We got us three of 'em! Check them out at the bottom of the page. They're all perfect for children, grandchildren, families, cats, dogs, the whole works - whatever you have in mind we are ready to help out.

Now just think about a Christmas morning with Grandma & Grandad NOT having a shiny portrait of their beloved grandchildren to unwrap - now that would stink.

One Time Only. Christmas 2011 Offers From Field Photographic

A. Full studio photo session for the whole family.
A lively, fun viewing session at our studio a few days after your shoot.
One 10"x8" and two 8"x6" mounted prints from your favourite image. ALL for £60 SAVING you £60

B. Full studio photo session for the whole family.
A lively, fun viewing session at our studio a few days after your shoot.
One 10"x8" mounted print and one 8"x6" 'Ice Block' double sided Designer Desktop acrylic block from your favourite two images. ALL for £80 SAVING you £80.

C. Full studio photo session for the whole family.
A lively, fun viewing session at our studio a few days after your shoot.
One 12"x8 Mounted 'Gallery' Print, two 10"x8" mounted prints and two 8”x6” mounted prints from your favourite image. Also a 20% DISCOUNT voucher towards ANY other products you want to order from your images. ALL for £110 SAVING you at least £90.

Secure your session today for just a £20 booking fee which will be deducted from the price of your chosen package. Simply call us now 01773 769900 to book in!

Pay nothing else until you visit us for your viewing session.

As usual with us this special offer carries NO further obligations.

Kate & James' Wedding at St Wilfrids Church & Makeney Hall

2011-09-27T15:10:00.000+01:00

First stop on Kate & James' big day was a quick drop in on the way to church to make sure everybody was doing OK with their getting ready. Luckily all was well so we sloped off to St Wilfrids Church, just a mile or so down the road.

We met up with James and his party for a quick photo session, and then it was the turn of the Bride with her father to arrive in style.

My favourite feature of St Wilfrids is this wonderful long tree lined driveway which makes for some fantastic shots of people walking up to church.

My second favourite feature is the scary climb up the spiral steps to the bell ringer's tower, but once up there, this view of the ceremony is the reward.

After the wedding, we spent some time wandering and shooting some quite relaxed unposed shots.

We had to make the most of the gorgeous doorway and tree lined drive before we left for Makeney Hall.

Once the camper van had departed, we were free to roam the grounds until dinnertime!

Congratulations Kate & James!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Sue & Chris

2011-09-09T11:00:00.000+01:00

A mostly monochrome post today, for no special reason, except that most of the shots seem to look extra lovely in Black & White!

We were at the lovely Morley Hayes recently for the wedding of Sue & Chris. Sue was getting ready in the adjacent hotel, so off we wandered to say hello and have a sneaky glimpse of the proceedings so far, and get a picture of pretty sparkly things.

Next it was the chap's photo call.

Then we got one of my fave shots of the afternoon featuring Sue arriving in style and at great speed :)

Coverage during the ceremony was discreet and quiet, and afterwards we got a lovely shot of the couple signing the register.

After the ceremony we got some family group shots organised before moving on to a more photojournalistic approach, and then taking a walk to make use of the woods and gardens around Morley Hayes.

Now there's a little bench at Morley Hayes that I've had my eye on for years which I thought would make a great different looking shot with the right couple, and today was the day. It was a bit of a detour, but we managed to get what was to be my favourite shot of the day against a perfect sky.

Then we followed that up by sneaking one of the first ever shots with the new ornamental dome in the wedding garden.

Many congratulations Sue & Chris!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Michelle & Mark

2011-09-03T17:51:00.002+01:00

Michelle & Mark were married recently at the lovely Horsley Lodge. We started things off at home with Michelle and her Bridesmaids - a sort of 'before' shot.

Then it was swiftly off to Horsley to get a shot of the guys with this wonderful backdrop of Derbyshire hills.

Michelle & Mark were very keen on having us capture as much photojournalistic style work as possible.

For the register signing shots, we work closely with the registrars to ensure that, while we get the shot, we don't disturb proceedings, or capture any of the confidential details held in the register. We achieve this by keeping a discreet distance. Today, I had company in my little corner.

Below is how the shot from my little corner should look :)

We love the look of the group shot below, it's a great way of capturing everybody while not having to organise line after line after line of people.
It's just a shame the wall I have to stand on isn't a tiny bit wider and flatter on top...

We are absolute suckers here for a dramatic sky shot, and today's unsettled weather presented me with one of the best ever! No more than minimal 'photoshopping' this scene really did unfold like this. It's just a shame I ended up lying flat out on wet grass to get the viewpoint :)

Today was a good day for humdinger clouds.

Congratulations Michelle & Mark!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Sam & Alec

2011-08-31T10:00:00.001+01:00

We met up with Alec and his Groomsmen not at church, but at the pub right across the road from the church in Swanwick - what a good start!

Eventually we all strolled across to the churchyard for a quick photo session before the guests started arriving.

Soon enough, Sam and her dad arrived in a wonderful stylish vintage car.

At the entrance to Swanwick church there is a lovely big porch, and I've got many variations of this beautifully lit shot over the years as our bride prepares to be revealed to the congregation and make her entrance.

And it's that same light that gave us this dramatic shot a few moments later.

After the ceremony was completed and we shot some family photographs in the churchyard, we were bound for Eastwood Hall, and in the interests of always trying to get something a little different, I thought today was the day for the 15mm lens, and a lie down on the grass :)

After the shots were all in the bag, we had some time spare to go play and bust some moves on the lawn :)

And finished up with this nice geometric shot of the girls tidying the confetti.

Well done and congratulations Sam & Alec!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Catherine & Daniel

2011-08-24T18:54:00.002+01:00

A few weeks ago we were invited back to shoot what was to be the third wedding for Catherine & Daniel's family in the last few years, so it was great to catch up with so many people we had got to know previously.

We started by visiting Catherine for a few getting ready shots before heading to Church.

And, ace folk that they are, they organised a vintage VW Camper Van to deliver the bridesmaids and Catherine's mum.

As we know the church and the vicar quite well now, we talked ourselves into a great wide angle shot from the balcony during the ceremony.

Afterwards we had to dodge a few raindrops. At least, some of us had to dodge them, others were better prepared. Meet the driest person in the wedding party. :)

After some silliness, we took a wander around the grounds of the beautiful Shottle Hall while the weather was being kind to us.

I never see it as a problem if the weather isn't the best, because we have got some of our best, most atmospheric shots in darker, greyer conditions, and today was no exception as we proved by lighting this scene with a little remote flash. DOUBLE camper vanage!

Check out this sky, this kind of moody shot just wouldn't be possible on a bright summery sunshine day...

And we couldn't resist the children being cute as always...

Congratulations Catherine & Daniel, all the very best!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Amy & Chris

2011-08-16T18:29:00.001+01:00

We began the day by dropping in to see how everybody was getting along at home, and managed a get a couple of shots of Amy's dress looking all fairytale in front of some spangly lights. Yes, 'spangly' is a professional photographic term.

Then it was a nice, simple shot of Amy's bouquet to pass some time until the bride was dressed enough for our camera.

Amy & Chris' ceremony was at the lovely old Eastwood Hall, and this looked just spot on for a shot of the guys arriving.

Eastwood Hall used to be offices years ago, and while we were waiting around, Amy's dad told me how he actually met her mum there when they both worked there in the past, so it was really nice to hear that the place had a good, personal history for them.

After some discreet shots during the ceremony, we wandered down the grass bank and took up position for a shot of the hall.

Then strolled around the gardens for a while to grab some really nice, relaxed looking shots.

The shot below is quite unusual for us, in that it's a strong backlit shot with the couple in deep shade - it needed some careful exposing for in camera, but we really love the airy look of the burned out white background shining through the leaves, and the subtle soft focus we added later.

Then we almost walked right past what was to become my favourite shot of the day, a plain white wall which I'm fairly sure only I saw the potential of, and despite the rain and drizzle starting, I talked Amy in to a quick couple of shots anyway!

After which we gave in to the weather, and it was time to try to find something creative to do inside. Despite the interior being quite modern and 'conference-centre' like, we managed a shot by the reception area which just proves that if you make the most of the given situation, good things can happen.

Well done Amy & Chris, and thankyou for being such great subjects!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Alex & Richard

2011-08-11T10:42:00.000+01:00

It was a ride to Swanwick a few weeks ago to shoot Alex and her bridesmaids in the midst of their pre wedding preparations. Alex has been a lovely client of ours in the past and has become a good friend over the years, so today was a big day for us all.

Some lovely monochrome shots soon gave way to a scene we just could NOT shoot in black and white - check out these bridesmaids dresses!

As soon as Alex was safely secured in her dress, we had a ride over to Santos Higham Farm, to shoot the fellas looking cool. It was extra nice to see Richard's best man, Matt, whose wedding we got to shoot last year.

Then it was the ladies turn to impress!

This was the first time we got to shoot the amazing new retractable roof over at Higham Farm, this converted the glass roofed room into a glorious sun bathed courtyard for the ceremony.

We also made good use of the veranda overlooking the beautiful Derbyshire countryside.

Many congratulations Alex & Richard!
www.fieldphotographic.com

Lianne & Scott

2011-07-14T18:26:00.000+01:00

An all warm black & white style post today, just because we felt like it and it looks fab.

A few weeks ago we were just down the road at Lianne & Scott's wedding at Smalley & Breadsall Priory. We got some nice getting ready shots in the lovely bright kitchen diner area of their place, and check out the heavenly light on that dress hanging up all ready for action.

This is Finn, and Finn had managed to fall over a couple of days previously, leaving him with a whacking great booboo on his forehead, which for most shots later on we retouched, but we kind of thought that it ought to be on some shots as a true record of the day.

We wandered up to the church to meet up with the bridesmaids, some of whom were less sure of us than others.

During the ceremony we were discreetly tucked away at the back of the church, ready for a nice shot to present itself. After the ceremony was finished we got some family shots outside, and also spent a little time grabbing some informal photographs too. The kids stole the show!

With a vintage car on hand, and a front door like this, you simply have to make use of it for a smiley posy picture. This is the wonderful Breadsall Priory.

Then we spent some more time floating around for informal shots, and yes, the kids stole the show :)

We finished off by walking a very obliging Bride & Groom around the grounds to get as many shots of the gardens as we could before dinner.

Congratulations Lianne & Scott!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Emma & Andrew

2011-07-02T10:46:00.002+01:00

A few weeks ago I got to visit one of my favourite, 'non-regular' venues. We only get to to go to Sutton Bonington Hall but a couple of times a year, so here was another treat in store.

Emma was getting ready upstairs so our first stop was to say hello and grab a few shots of details, bits and bobs, and things happening. The available light was just perfect so we managed to keep a very low profile without using flash, and let everybody get on with what they were getting on with.

Today was a bit extra special because it was the first time I had been to a wedding at Sutton Bonington Church - which is literally just down the road from the Hall, so everybody just walked everywhere! After meeting the fellas at church, I walked back to the Hall to catch the bridesmaids leaving.

And then walked back again to see Emma & her dad!

After the ceremony we had to organise a confetti throwing picture, and then, you guessed it, we walked back to the Hall for a drinks reception and photographs in the garden.

One other thing I love about Sutton Bonington is how they happily let me climb out of a bathroom window onto the roof to capture this sort of informal 'crowd-around' shot of the whole wedding party.

Soon enough I put Emma & Andrew to work having them pose here and there and everywhere for some shots to show off the fantastic gardens and grounds.

It was a glorious sunny day and Andy's best man made a fantastic assistant putting the reflector to good use in all of these shots.

I don't think I've ever been anywhere else where we can get a shot to include the church and the reception hall in the same picture, but we managed it today.

Congratulations Emma & Andy!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Anna & Tim

2011-06-20T09:05:00.001+01:00

It was another real treat recently when we got to visit Hathersage in the Derbyshire Peak District for Anna & Tim's wedding. Hathersage is popular with walkers, and the churchyard is part of a public footpath, which allowed us to get this fabulous surreal 'spot the imposter' shot when we arrived.

Then we did a sensible pic, with besuited folks only. Did I mention Hathersage is lovely?

The church is in a great position on top of the hill, too steep for the horses to get up, so Anna made the last few hundred yards by car, and we got this great view of her parking the carriage.

After the ceremony we let everybody shuffle off to the reception (which was in a groovy barn in the middle of nowhere - more on that later) and we snuck back into church for a quick shot using the beautiful available light..

While Anna & Tim made their way to the barn in style, everybody else was settled in with drinks watching the chef prepare dinner on a VERY smokey barbecue.

Although time was against us, the area was so stunning that we just had to wander off and make the most of it to get Anna & Tim some amazing unique shots. They were so accommodating, happily walking through the fields, and all of these were taken in less than 10 minutes just before dinner was served.

Love the village fete type theme in the barn, made me want an ice cream.

The speeches were just before the meal, so we stuck around to grab a few shots before leaving them to a long lively night in the field. Congratulations Anna & Tim!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Amanda & Paul

2011-06-15T11:19:00.000+01:00

It was off to a posh newly decorated Morley Hayes recently for Amanda & Paul's wedding. When Amanda arrived at our studio two weeks before the day for her pre wedding consultation with a massive plaster-cast on her leg we had an idea things were going to be a bit different!

Amazingly she managed to talk the doctors into removing her cast and giving her what she could only describe as a 'terminator boot' to walk around in. When our bride has a cool down to earth perspective on thing like that, we know we're in for a good day :)

When we got kicked out of Amanda's room (not by the terminator boot thankfully) we were off to meet the fellas and start the ceremony.

It has to be said Amanda did an amazing job of getting from the buggy that dropped her off, all the way through the building to the ceremony room. It wasn't fast, but it was impressive!

We managed a few shots out and about after the ceremony before allowing our brave bride some well earned sitting down time.

Here's my fave of the day, one our young bridesmaid about to get herself in some trouble with a soon to be muddy dress. I did try to stop her...Really!

Congratulations Amanda & Paul!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Nicole & Dan

2011-06-09T11:10:00.000+01:00

It's always a treat to visit the beautiful East Lodge Hotel in Rowsley, and a few weeks ago we got the bonus of amazing afternoon weather too. We were up that way for Nicole & Dan's countryside wedding. As they live a good way away, we didn't have a great of chance to get together beforehand, but everything came together perfectly.

When I went up to the room all was calm and quiet. Not what I usually expect! Check out this shot of the stunning bouquet made up by Tineke Floral Designs.

No, I had no idea what those amazing white flowers were either. Stunning stuff though. Well done Kerry & gang.

We meandered back downstairs to meet up with Dan and his best man to grab a few shots, then it was ceremony time, and yes, the fisheye lens was pulled into service from the bottom of my case.

Drinks and photographs were out on the lawn afterwards, and as usual I happily worked through the formal family shots as early as possible to earn everybody some relaxing and mingling time.

Soon it was time for a go on the East Lodge golf buggy for a ride up to the top of the hill to get what I think is one of the best views of any venue in the area.

Nicole & Dan were a great couple to photograph and very accommodating. They even let me leave in this odd shot of Nicole wishing she had worn jeans and trainers for her walk in the country :)

Many congratulations Nicole & Dan!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Helen & Martin

2011-05-23T11:00:00.001+01:00

Two weeks ago we got a rare treat - we got to go somewhere new, that we hadn't been to before! We were headed Leicestershire way, to a lovely small village called Thrussington for Helen & Martin's wedding. First off we made a stop for a shots of the girls getting ready. I love this subtle reminder on the calender.

Before they finished all the champagne, we headed off to church to meet the chaps - who had to walk all of 50 yards from Martin's parents place to the church!

After the ceremony we grabbed a few shots around church, but I really couldn't wait to get the the reception at the Carriage Hall, at Plumtree.

Although the theme of the day was in danger of being 'windswept', Helen carried on bravely and we got some great fun filled shots.

And some fantastic shots around the Hall too.

Congratulations Helen & Martin!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Laura & Richard

2011-05-18T14:26:00.000+01:00

After an absence we have lots of new stuff to be showing off here!

We'll start with a wedding we went to a few weeks ago in the height of spring - Laura & Richard's lovely countryside wedding at Morley Church, and Morley Hayes.

We were around to shoot the arrivals at church and met Richard early for his close up pic before the crowds descended.

During the ceremony we shot discreetly from the back so as not to intrude, and also managed a few sneaky shots when the registers were being signed.

The beautiful church at Morley, above.

After the ceremony, and a few running repairs to small people's suits, shoes, and dresses, we were off to the lovely Morley Hayes.

Most of Morley Hayes has been refurbished over the winter, and what fantastic work they have done, check out this room, all set for the wedding breakfast.

Congratulations Laura & Richard, we look forward to seeing you back at the studio soon for your portrait session!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Natasha & David

2011-03-04T11:36:00.000Z

Another visit to the amazing Breadsall Priory! This time to share Natasha & David's day for their stylish wedding.

Natasha and her gang were getting ready at the hotel, so we had to have a wander over to see how they were getting on.

The lighting in the room was pretty awful and yellow for photography, and we rarely like to use flash as it completely kills the atmosphere and makes it harder for people to concentrate, so we settled on some stylish available light black and white documentary shots to start things off.

And of course the stunning details.

After we decided to leave the girls in peace, we went off in search of the boys to see how they turned out. With everyone looking good we grabbed a few shots outside, and then got one of my faves from the day - a shot of David looking anxious-ish at the front of the room, just before the Bride's big entrance.

Ceremony shots were discreet and from the back of the room, as usual.

After the registers were signed, and we had a few shots with families, we got to play in the gardens.

Best bit!

We have a very well liked shot of Breadsall on our reception wall that can't be taken on a bright summery, blue sky kind of day, and we promised to replicate it for Natasha & David if the conditions allowed. Luckily they did, and we got some high drama :)

What a backdrop!

We never feel like we're totally finished until we grab a shot of kids being cute...

Congratulations Natasha & David!

www.fieldphotographic.com

Daisy In The Snow

2011-02-16T12:48:00.001Z

In keeping with our current theme of taking small children outside in crazy temperatures and freezing them, here's Daisy braving the snow for us a few weeks ago.

We actually had this session set up well before the snow arrived, but far from deciding to postpone, we were all the more keen for a trip out to Markeaton Park and a good wander round.

Daisy was a proper trouper, up for way more snowy sheningans than us old folks could manage, we even got her to carry the reflector for us!

Putting the reflector to good use above. And below, would you believe this was shot on the same day?

Jessica's Hats.

2011-02-11T14:00:00.000Z

Here are a few pictures from a freezing cold autumny-wintery portrait session we shot with Jess.

We all had a great time despite the temperatures barely hitting freezing, and because the session was late in the afternoon after school, we managed just 20 or 30 minutes shooting before the last of the lovely autumn sunshine had disappeared, and we all wanted warm drinks.

We wanted to make the most of the beautiful autumn colours, and of course show off Jess' collection of funky hats and scarves.

Hopefully these shots show what can be achieved in very litle time, with little light and harsh conditions, one camera, one reflector, and a great desire to be back inside :)

Here's a last shot, hatless.

What a brave young lady, well done!

Hayley & Nick

2011-02-07T13:14:00.001Z

Still in Autumn 2010, we were over at the delightful Shottle Hall to spend the afternoon with Hayley & Nick.

We had a sneak upstairs to grab a few getting ready shots, but were really taken with a shot of all the dresses before they were inhabited by people.

Next we organised a shot of the chaps all arriving looking cool, with a backdrop of the beautiful Ecclesbourne Valley.

Which was swiftly followed by Hayley negotiaing the main staircase, which she managed with wonderful grace - well done!

After the civil ceremony we organised several family groups and took a wander off around the grounds for some more chilled out shots.

Finishing up with my fave of the day by the main entrance, lit by remote flash to overpower the overcast daylight and inject a bit of drama into the proceedings.

And the cupcake fairy came. Nice one!

Kathryn & Paul

2011-01-31T13:26:00.001Z

More sheningans from October, also at the lovely Breadsall Priory near Derby, but this time starting off at a wonderful old church in Wollaton.

We popped down the road to Kathryn's house to cover some getting ready pics. We were expecting a scene of mild chaos, but actually it was quite the opposite, affording us time to sit and watch a Disney princess movie with our new friend, the young bridesmaid, here shown deeply engrossed with said princess movie in her pre-dress jammies.

Alas, time dictated that we had to leave before the end of the movie to meet up with the chaps at church. Then we made them walk down the middle of a narrow road by a blind bend to get a good shot. They complied. Bless 'em all!

All our poor page boy could do was watch on and look worried.

After the ceremony, I had in mind a definite 'high drama' shot outside the church to organise with some carefully balanced remote flash, and then it was off to Breadsall to make the most of the gorgeous autumnal colours.

It has to be said though, the stars of the show were probably the kids... Sorry Kathryn and Paul :)

And those amazing autumn cupcakes.

Candy & Steve

2011-01-28T13:14:00.000Z

This seems a while ago, back in the sunny crisp days of October 2010 Candy & Steve got themselves all wed at Breadsall Priory, near Derby. They booked us in on the strength of our informal and fun approach to their day, and we all had a great time on a fabulously warm October day.

We started off upstairs, for getting ready time.

OK, it has to be said, maybe the kids were better subjects than the grown ups at this point... :)

Steve had a particular shot in mind to replicate for the fella's group shot.

Decent looking bunch eh?

After this, we covered the ceremony discreetly and then went out to enjoy the weather.

Knowing that Candy & Steve are a pretty switched on couple, we thought we'd try out a few different shots which we haven't successfully come up with a name for yet. Vintage Funky maybe?

OK, Hipstamatic. You got us.

Comments welcome as always. Find us on twitter @fieldphoto or on facebook or see us at www.fieldphotographic.com.

Congratulations Candy & Steve!

Anna & Alistair

2010-12-09T13:49:00.001Z

It was a trip to the historic old town of Repton a few weeks ago for Anna & Alistair's wedding at the lovely and exceeding pointy church there. Anna assured us that she was getting ready a mere 'few' minutes walk down the road at home, so after shooting the chaps arriving, off I trekked. For AGES! Eventually, somewhat more exhausted than before, I found Anna's place, and grabbed a few Black & White shots of them all finishing off.

Luckily the chauffer and the bridesmaids took pity on me and I got a ride back to church in a vintage Rolls Royce.

From there we floated around to capture some nice moments as Anna arrived and entered the church.

The best bit was still to come as the reception was at the wonderful Izaak Walton Hotel, in the middle of Dovedale - always a treat to visit with our camera.

We also found time to grab a few shots of the 'children' (big and small) playing in the garden.

Congratulations Anna & Al!

Princess Anne Opens The Roundhouse

2010-12-05T18:49:00.000Z

The Roundhouse in Derby has hundreds of years of railway history behind it, and has stood sadly empty and decadent until a couple of years ago when Derby College took on the task of renovating it and transforming it into their flagship city campus. It's generally thought to be the one of the first railway roundhouses built, servicing locomotives from 1839.

We were lucky to participate in photographing the restoration project, shooting the site every two weeks, from identical angles, for almost two years to document the stunning transformation.

After such a long project, we were quite chuffed to be covering the grand Royal Opening a few weeks ago.

When you're a Princess, you get the best cake.

Julie & David

2010-11-18T13:30:00.002Z

We spent the afternoon with Julie & David at Makeney Hall recently at their early Autumn wedding.

We first met Julie's family almost 20 years ago and it great to get together with everybody again.

The only thing that seemed different since the good old days was that there were lots of new children everywhere, who of course made for some lovely shots.

Julie & David also had a few shots organised with their daughters too.

And of course we coudn't miss out on a chance to get a shot of the kid's entertainer and disco in full swing. Couple of big kids (grown ups) enjoying themselves there too. Good on 'em.

Free Stuff!

2010-11-17T11:41:00.001Z

Yes OK this isn't REALLY what we've been up to recently, but it is a great chance to get a free photo session in our studio JUST in time to solve a few of those parent's Christmas present problems.

You can take your free studio session either before Christmas to end up with a spiffy new portrait print as a present, or use your voucher at your leisure in the new year - any time before the end of March 2011.

It's really easy - just click it, print it, bring it, and claim a freebie!

http://www.fieldphotographic.com/

Chrissie & Matt

2010-11-13T14:06:00.000Z

Chrissie & Matt had the good fortune of getting a gorgeous autumn afternoon for their funky stylish wedding at the beautiful East Lodge Hotel in Rowsley a few weeks ago.

We started the day upstairs to shoot the preparations, and spent the day floating around to get the feel of their relaxed afternoon.

I couldn't resist getting a shot of their order of service complete with bride promising her husband to be that she will 'make lots of poached eggs'. Fantastic stuff.

We grabbed a few discreet shots of the registers being signed without intruding, and finished the ceremony with a nice fisheye lens shot to show the whole wedding group.

After a few shots with family and friends, we got to take a much awaited golf buggy ride to the top end of the property where we knew we would get some great shots with the low warm autumn sun, and the beautiful Derbyshire hills in the background. What a venue!

We also took a stroll around the lovely gardens and lake to grab a last few shots before the wedding breakfast - including a great surreal art installation featuring three giant floating rocks and the surface of the water.

Last up was a shot of the lovely wedding breakfast room setup, and their stylish dolly mixture cake. Nice one!

Kate & Matt

2010-10-28T14:09:00.001+01:00

Kate and Matt were married recently at St Nicholas Church in Allestree, and then headed over to see our good friends at Morley Hayes for a great reception. We started the afternoon at home to get a few shots of the details and preparations.

We had a good time watching Kate negotiate the stairs for the first time in her dress!

Then it was off to church where we managed a couple of un-intrusive shots during the ceremony.

The weather was kind to us so we managed a few shots around the grounds at Morley before leaving everybody in peace just in time for dinner. Congratulations Kate & Matt!

Katie & Kieran

2010-10-21T13:10:00.001+01:00

We had a good and interesting day with Katie & Kieran a few weeks ago. They had a simple but stylish ceremony at Ripley Register Office followed by one of the funkiest receptions of the year in a marquee.

The couple happily obliged any and all requests to walk through fields, climb over (and, amazingly, through!) fences and down lanes to get some lovely chilled out looking shots - all of which summed up their personalities perfectly.

As Katie & Kieran's mode of transport was a funky old VW camper van, it seemed fitting to make the most of this amazing find - another old camper van looking, well, somewhat weathered.

No village fair theme would be complete without strawberry scones and cream of course. And the wedding breakfast? Fish and chips all round with REAL newspaper tablecloths. Fantastic!

The guests all settled down for the speeches before the meal, just in time to miss a real humdinger (yes, that IS a word) of a storm. Check out the last shot below for those clouds...

See? Humdinger clouds. Told you.

Baverstock School

2010-10-11T09:00:00.001+01:00

Last week we were trekking off down to Birmingham to shoot the prospectus for Baverstock School, with our lovely and talented friend Taj from Pebble Design.

The brief was simple enough, requiring contemporary shots of students in a positive environment enjoying learning and socialising. We used some quite harsh black and white, and cross process colour techniques to give a funky, fun and unique look to the shots.

www.fieldphotographic.com

Cara & Lee

2010-10-07T18:09:00.000+01:00

We've spent a good deal of time at Horsley Lodge recently, which is absolutely fine by us as it's just super. We were there a few weeks ago for the wedding of Cara & Lee. Our shot of Lee and his best man erm, 'arriving' set the tone for the rest of the day.

Then we shot the page boys, when we caught them!

We knew we were in for a fun time.

Cara got ready for the wedding in the lovely little cottage in the grounds of the lodge so we had a wander over there for a few minutes.

After the wedding we had the chance to really make the most of the grounds, especially the ornamental lake and fountain.

And to finish we got some lovely shots of the personalised details around the wedding breakfast room, created by our friends at Event Heydays.

Congratulations Cara & Lee!

Carly & Andrew

2010-09-16T08:00:00.001+01:00

It was a a rare warm and sunny August day for Carly and Andrew at Quarndon church recently. We visited Carly's home for a few quick shots before heading to church, and to be honest were expecting to find things much more chaotic than they were :)

We were particularly chuffed with a lovely shot we managed to grab of Carly & Andrew's daughter just before she got out of the car at church.

After the ceremony we all made our way over to Makeney Hall for a lovely drinks reception, and of course managed to talk Carly & Andrew into a walk around the countryside before we left them in peace for the evening.

Playing with the noise and saturation of the digital image gave us a lovely soft impressionistic feel to the image of them strolling along in the Milford countryside.

Many congratulations to you from us all here!

Lucy & David.

2010-09-13T19:08:00.000+01:00

We have so many fantastic shots from Lucy David's day at Wirksworth Church it's hard to know where to start when looking for blog pictures.

For Lucy, it was all about the details. So we shot loads.

A detail David and the guys noticed was that the Hope & Anchor pub was right next door to the church. But we soon put a stop to those shenanigans and marched them over in time for the ceremony. Just :)

We spent some time waiting for Lucy to arrive by looking out for some nice 'caught' shots. And when Lucy arrived without her bouquet and promptly had to go back home for it, we had even more time!

Eventually, bouquet safely acquired, the ceremony began.

Lucy is a dance teacher, and her reaction when she saw her dance class' guard of honour after the wedding was priceless.

The heavens opened on us just as we finished the last of the family pictures, and the shot below is my fave from the day. When the rain comes, it seems there are winners and losers in the race for umbrealls.

Luckily it was a passing shower, and Lucy stayed dry enough by nicking the photographer's umbrella :)

Oh well, I had too much to carry anyway...

Our reception was at the Mickleover Court Hotel which has quite a modern exterior, so we made the most of the shapes in a funky composition.

And finished with the group photograph to end them all.

Why yes, that did take a lot of organising, thankyou :)

Our Shiny New Product...

2010-09-13T17:06:00.000+01:00

We're very excited and bouncy to be able to unveil our latest ~~gadget,~~ no, ~~toy,~~ no, very serious high tech wedding product...Yes, that's it.

Our iPad wedding album!

Maybe a wedding 'album' isn't for you - a lot of our couples these days opt for our rights free digital images service already - or maybe, like us, you love the thought of something new and different and fancy getting your hands on a shiny new iPad. Either way we think this might float your boat...

Full coverage of your day from getting ready in the morning until when you sit down for the wedding breakfast, and ALL of the images included on a brand new iPad ready for showing off to friends and family.

All in all great stuff. Give us a call to have a chat about your plans for your wedding day, how we can help, and of course how you can grab a shiny iPad loaded and ready to go with your wedding images on! You can get us on 01773 769900 for a natter, or visit us at www.fieldphotographic.com.

Libby & Martin at Blackbrook House

2010-08-25T08:00:00.001+01:00

Libby & Martin were married recently at the lovely & refined Blackbrook House. We had a great afternoon with them, their families, and friends with a really relaxed and chilled out atmosphere. As usual, we stopped off at Libby's parent's house for a few getting shots before heading off to the venue.

Knowing already that photography wasn't going to be Martin's favourite part of the day we made sure to keep the 'standing in line' shots to a minimum and went for something to sum up their approach to their day.

In keeping with the informal feel to things we spent a lot of the day just floating around, capturing events as they unfolded.

And got a great spot from which to shoot the ceremony itself.

Here are a few images from the rest of the afternoon.

My favourite thing for a confetti throwing picture is to slow the shutter speed right down to add a bit of motion blur - it really helps convey the impression of movement and life.

Of course, we also managed to drag Lib & martin around the lovely gardens for a few shots of the couple themselves.

And we couldn't finish up without cupcakes ;)

Congratulations to you both, and many thanks for a lovely afternoon!

Lisa & Owen at Etwall & Tutbury Castle

2010-08-19T15:59:00.000+01:00

It was closer to the day than we'd normally like by the time we got together with Lisa & Owen, as Lisa was working in Germany up until a few weeks before the wedding. As it happened we all got on famously and we should never have had any concerns at all.

We started off by having a float around while the ladies were readying themselves to get a few 'before' shots, and continued through the ceremony and afterwards at Church. It was a great pleasure to bump in to two couples in the congregation whose weddings we shot a few years ago and had recommended us to Lisa - always a sure sign that we are doing a good job.

It was when we finally arrived at Tutbury Castle that we were let loose and given full roam of the grounds and ruins with the couple. Here's what we shot...

Our favourite shots were right at the top of the (numerous) steps - thanks guys for putting up with us! - where we added a little extra light from a wireless flash for a bit of drama, and well, what a sky!

Helen from Maverick Venues took charge of the marquee and made a fabulous job of the decoration and catering for the wedding breakfast.

Kat & Dean at Breadsall Priory

2010-08-06T10:21:00.043+01:00

Here are a few shots from the fab day we had recently with Kat & Dean at the stunning Breadsall Priory. The couple had a civil ceremony at the priory and we had full use of the amazing gardens to run around in afterwards.

Of course we more than made the most of this, as Breadsall is one of our favourite local venues.

Kat & Dean's beautiful children Ruby & Dom were flowergirl and pageboy respectively, and showed up in more than a few shots, whether they were supposed to or not!

Although to be fair, they did tidy up the confetti for us after everybody made a huge mess.

For the rest of the afternoon, we spent a while just floating around capturing the atmosphere, an approach which everybody seems to love.

Only one minor bit of retouching required: Kat managed to scrape most of the skin off her finger the day before the wedding - she showed it to us, then asked for a close up shot of the rings on their fingers! Ha!

Of course....No problem :) If only we could do that in real life.
What a lovely couple, many congratulations from us all here!

Lindsay & Kevin at Shottle Hall

2010-07-29T15:13:00.000+01:00

It was a few weeks ago now that we got to spend the afternoon with Lindsay & Kevin at the beautiful Shottle Hall in the Derbyshire countryside. We were floating around to capture some getting ready photographs in the room upstairs, but were most chuffed with this lovely little moment between Lindsay and her dad before they made their entrance into the ceremony.

During the ceremony we kept our usual low profile, making sure to grab a few shots of the signing of the register from a discrete distance.

The actual details entered into the register are confidential, and we have earned the trust of the registrars by always keeping our promise that any shots we take will not include any legible details on the register itself. In turn, they are kind enough to let us get lovely fly on the wall shots like the ones above and below.

After the ceremony we were under instructions for lots of candid people type shots to capture the atmosphere of the day. Everybody was having such a great time that we didn't have to many problems.

Of course it is a well known unwritten rule that our dear Groom must be liberally covered with confetti.

For a chance to relax and have a little bit of peace and quiet, we proceeded to march Lindsay & Kevin around the fabulous gardens at Shottle for a couple of more chilled out, calmed down shots to finish with.

Many congratulations, and thankyou for a wonderful day!

Daisy Visits The Studio

2010-07-21T18:39:00.002+01:00

Here are some shots from our little friend Daisy's studio session a while ago. Quite a while ago to be fair, but we've been busy busy flying around here there and everywhere recently enjoying lots of weddings and not getting time to tinker around on the computer.

We loved the image above so much that we have printed it onto aluminium to display in our studio reception.

We tried hard to capture a variety of different feels to the shots, so we changed lighting and backgrounds around, and went from sharing jokes to make Daisy laugh to asking her not to smile at all.

Mixtures of colour & black and white were the order of the day. Isn't it amazing how a small change in exposure, lighting and cropping can make two images look totally different in mood, even though they were taken only seconds apart, like above, and below.

Very cool stuff! All in all a fab time was had. Daisy, you're a star!

Catherine & Richard at Horsley Lodge

2010-07-08T11:58:00.001+01:00

Couple of weeks ago we were out and about in the beautiful Derbyshire countryside at St Clements Church in Horsley, for Catherine & Richard's wedding. Richard had a total of 10 groomsmen, whom somebody joked were there to make sure he didn't get away - most unfair!

We grabbed a few close up shots of pretty little details on Catherine's dress which we know our brides love, maybe because they don't have to smile?

After the ceremony we made our way back to Richard's little place for the reception, as he owns Horsley Lodge, we did OK for some nice shots with lovely backgrounds. We did make them walk up the driveway instead of having a ride though.

Catherine impressed us most with the impeccable decor of the wedding breakfast room. She chose stunning pale pinks and creams to give the room a lovely airy floaty atmosphere. Our friends at Event Heydays finished everything off to perfection with a starlight curtain draped behind the top table.

Fab stuff.

Lauren And Danny at The Priest House Hotel

2010-06-28T18:49:00.000+01:00

It was a glorious sunny afternoon when we made a trip down the motorway to Castle Donington a couple of weekends ago. The exact same weekend as the Download festival was in town, bringing with it several thousand loud rocker types. One of which was me. But I was there for something altogether more refined, so, fighting the urge to slope off to watch AC-DC, we settled in for a quieter afternoon at the lovely Priest House country hotel with Lauren and Danny, and their families and friends.

Yes, that old Beetle was the Bride's mode of transport. Bless her for that - the shot above just wouldn't be the same without it!

It was a beautiful afternoon with a wonderful setting - the Priest House has been a favourite of ours for many years, and was renovated a few years ago after being flooded by the river it sits on the banks of.

Lauren was a great sport when we asked her to clamber to the top of said bank in order for us to get the best angle of the day for a shot.

Looks like a fairy tale castle doesn't it? Sadly reality hit home fast for Lauren when she realised she was going to have to get down from the bank again!

A good team effort. We rounded off by taking the Bride & Groom for a stroll around the grounds for a few casual, relaxed shots while their guests finished the champagne.

Congratulations all, we have some fantastic, memorable shots.

Our Visit To The Cathedral Quarter. With The Dogs.

2010-06-24T14:28:00.001+01:00

A couple of weeks ago we got to make a visit to Derby's Cathedral Quarter, and more specifically the hotel of the same name. The hotel is the newest addition to the Finesse Collection and is stunning. (No, that is not the hotel above!)

We were there for the wedding ceremony of Joanne & Miguel, and we got invited to the bride's room ahead of proceedings, for a 'before' photograph.

The room that the ceremony was held in was truly magnificent, and decorated beautifully.

After the ceremony was finished and we spent some time shooting family photographs outside, Jo and Miguel let us be in charge for a while.

Now, to photographers everywhere, was anybody else out and about a couple of Saturdays ago shooting a bride & groom walking their dogs through the city centre? No? Just us then.

We've been having a great time recently with our urban settings and have enjoyed exploring new areas and making the most of them. Jo & Miguel were really happy to trudge around the city with us looking for interesting shots. They really were into anything different and funky we could come up with, and we couldn't really go wrong with the Cathedral Green Bridge, completed with our funky cross processed effect.

Let's end with a couple of shots of the hotel, we hope we'll be making many more return trips in the years to come.

Isobel, Neve, and the booboo.

2010-06-18T19:54:00.001+01:00

Here are a few shots from a recent meeting with our little friends Isobel & Neve. We were aiming for something different from the studio shots on white backgrounds that are so popular, so we shot these outside, just in their back garden, with good old fashioned natural light.

We had a something of a problem presented to us by what Isobel sheepishly described as her 'chin boo boo'. So how do you shoot a portrait of somebody, when you can only show half of their face? Always up for a challenge, we decided to see how many images we could shoot with said boo boo hidden, and still make them work. We managed a few :)

Absolutely stunning shots for only half a visible face. Neve, however, happily showed off her chin with wild abandon.

In case you're wondering, the troublesome chinbooboo did make an appearance for the sake of historical accuracy...

... But made a rapid disappearance for the finished print after some sneaky retouching.

Although this did feel a bit like cheating, it had the desired result. If only we could do it in real life...

We look forward to shooting the girls again one day soon, maybe scar free next time?

Sally & Mark's Sunny Afternoon in Derby

2010-06-17T20:53:00.002+01:00

We've been on a run of quite urban, very stylish city centre weddings recently, and it was just a couple of weeks ago when we turned up at the very stylish and swish Masa Restaurant & Wine Bar in Derby to spend the afternoon with Sally & Mark at their civil ceremony. Masa is housed in an old converted Wesleyan Chapel, and it makes a unique, fabulous venue.

We started off proceedings with a visit to Sally's parents house to catch everybody finishing off getting ready, and to add a shot or two to our funky dressing gowns portfolio.

Sally wanted some still life type shots of all her pretty things before we were off to the venue to meet the chaps, and grab a few shots of them wandering up looking all cool.

After the ceremony we spent some time in the garden shooting family pictures, and finally sloped off for a walk around to get some nice relaxed shots of the bride and groom while everybody enjoyed their drinks.

It was only when we decided to push our luck and ask Sally to pose against a rusty, graffitti covered garage door shutter that she gave us a slightly odd look, but she was up for it anyway and we ended up with one of my favourites shots of the afternoon.

It just goes to prove that there are stylish shots to be had just about anywhere if you look at situations the right way!

Hopefully Sally & Mark had a great day, we certainly did, and we will be getting together some more cool city-style wedding shots to be showing off here in the next couple of weeks.

We'll end with a wonderful sentiment borrowed directly from the table settings at the wedding breakfast.

To the world you may be just one person, but to one person, you are the world.

Fab.