Wedding Photojournalism - How Caple Court, Hertfordshire

Documentary Wedding Photography is a storytelling approach that relies on natural light as much as possible to create a record of the day. Winter weddings can bring certain technical challenges. The shorter days and lower sun mean that the light is at best diminished or - more usually - gone altogether.

Whatever a winter wedding in the UK may lack in light or outside temperature, they most certainly make up for with a warm cosiness. There is an unwavering focus on the occasion of the day; the event that celebrates two people in love.

I met with Shaun and his groomsmen shortly before the ceremony at How Caple Court in Hertfordshire. This country venue includes a barn, marquee and rustic courtyard setting with great character. After taking the opportunity for some naturally lit outdoor shots, the guests started arriving and the excitement built before the arrival of Jacqueline and her bridal party.

The barn looked stunning lit by candles and fairy lights. Jacqueline's friend Nadine sang a beautiful rendition of Etta James '"At Last".

Being a winter wedding, it was almost completely dark after the ceremony. The documentary photography approach favours natural light wherever possible but there are times when that just isn't possible. Bridal portraits are a one-off occasion and we have to adapt to the light, adding in a little extra where necessary to create these images.

The barn prepared and ready for the Wedding Breakfast. The cheese Wedding Cake looked amazing.

The suppliers:

Ceremony & Reception: How Caple Court
Food:  Vinehouse Catering
Wedding Dress: made for Jacqueline by a friend
Hair & Makeup: Heidi Herkes
Grooms Suit: Jeff Banks
Flowers: organised by a friend
Cake: Good Taste Cheesemongers