Behind The Lens: A Day in The Life of a Documentary Wedding Photographer

People often see the finished wedding photos — the golden light, the laughter, the quiet in-between moments — but not many people get to see what actually goes into a wedding day from my side of the lens.

So I thought I’d share a little behind-the-scenes look at what a wedding day really looks like for me, from the first coffee of the morning to the final backup of the night. Fair warning: it might make you want to quit your job and become a wedding photographer… or at the very least, appreciate just how much care goes into telling your story properly.

Morning prep & mindset

So first of all, I’ve got to be honest — I am not, and have never been, a morning person.

That said, wedding mornings hit differently. When you love what you do, getting up early feels a whole lot easier (especially with a strong coffee involved). Before I head out, I’ll reread my couple’s questionnaire, check the timeline, double-check the weather, and mentally map out the day ahead — especially any moments that are particularly meaningful to them.

Being prepared means I can stay calm, flexible, and fully present once the day begins.

Why I arrive early (and why couples love that)

I always plan my travel so I arrive at the venue at least a couple of hours before things start.

This gives me time to settle in, explore the space, spot the best light, and capture those quiet pre-wedding details — your ceremony all set up, flowers, signage, and those “setting the scene” moments that help tell the full story of the day.

It also means I can say hello to venue staff, coordinate smoothly, and make sure everything flows without anyone feeling rushed. Calm energy is contagious, and it sets the tone for the whole day.

My approach as a Documentary Wedding Photographer

Once the wedding is underway, around 90% of my day is spent photographing things exactly as they happen — naturally, honestly, and without interruption.

I’m a documentary-style wedding photographer at heart, which means I focus on real moments over rigid poses. The laughs, the nerves, the hugs, the glances you didn’t realise anyone saw — that’s where the magic lives.

The remaining 10% is gently guided: group photos done efficiently, confetti throws, and a relaxed wander away with just the two of you. Always prompts, never stiff posing. Always natural.

Moey: my home-on-wheels & mobile HQ

Now feels like the perfect time to introduce you to Moey — my home on wheels and constant sidekick.

Living and travelling full-time in my motorhome means I’m able to photograph weddings all over the UK without the stress of long drives home or early-morning hotel checkouts. Moey is part storage unit, part mobile office, part calm retreat between moments of a busy wedding day.

It also means I can back up your photos immediately — often before guests have even finished their wedding breakfast — because when it comes to your memories, I don’t mess around. Multiple backups, every time. No exceptions.

The heart of the day (ceremony → party)

As the day transitions from ceremony to celebration, I’m there capturing entrances, speeches, cake cutting and the first dance — all while keeping an eye on the light in case golden hour makes an appearance (my absolute favourite).

When the party kicks off, I stay close to the dance floor, soaking up the atmosphere and documenting the energy exactly as it feels — not staged, not forced, just real people having the best time.

After the wedding (backups, sneak peeks, switching off)

Once I’ve said my goodbyes and captured everything I need, I’ll head back to Moey or home, back up the day again, and start preparing sneak peeks while everything is still fresh.

Then it’s feet up, cameras cleaned, dog cuddles with my chocolate lab Hunter, and probably something mindless on Netflix. A full day of storytelling deserves a gentle landing.

And that, in a nutshell, is a day in my life as a wedding photographer.

If you’re looking for someone who’ll blend in, keep things relaxed, and tell your story exactly as it unfolds — chances are we’ll get along just fine.

Pretty great, right?