We've just completed our latest wedding project. The venue was Astley Bank Hotel in Darwen, the lovely couple were Lyndsey and Ken. Sue and I shoot these together, I do some parts of the event, Sue does the guest portraits, and sometimes we both shoot different viewpoints. The style is definitely reportage, with some formal shots and groups as well.
It's one of those jobs we both dread and enjoy in the same breath. On the one hand it's stressful as there are no excuses for failure, on the other hand once we are immersed in it then it's fantastic and we lose ourselves in the process. The end result is a hardcover book and a DVD of selected images.
Equipment is kept simple, and wherever possible I work with available light. Cameras are Pentax K-5 bodies with an assortment of Pentax zooms and primes. My main lenses were the 18-135mm and the 43mm f/1.9 Limited. I used to shoot weddings with just two or three prime lenses on film, so these days we feel totally spoilt. Basic ISO was 200 or 400, but anything that's needed as the light fails.
It rained constantly, but WR lenses can save the day. people stood in doorways under cover and I stood in the rain shooting images. At night, the lights that illuminated the hotel were put to good use as well.
The book is now done, using Blurb, and that's an intense process. It took one 10am to 9.30pm day, followed by a 9am to 5pm day. The third day a final check and the book was uploaded and ordered.
It's done now, Lyndsey and Ken are delighted with the pictures, and I thought I'd share some of my favourite images from the shoot.
Groom and best men looking tough....
A night shot of Lyndsey in the smoking gazebo.
Another night shot trying the angelic look
Nicola had the Wow Factor, great outfit, great hair.....had to be photographed!
And the happy couple taking a moment.
A great day with lots of great people, a fine way to spend a weekend!
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