I wasn’t doing bridal preparation photos, so met Mike and the boys at the stunning church in Stoke Newington. There was great excitment from guests and family alike once they started arriving, everyone was in a very happy and excited mood.

Catriona and her bridesmaids were dropped off slightly away from the church, so they got to walk the few metres through the dappled light and trees opposite – which made for a great shot I think.

Catriona and Mike had decided to walk down the aisle together and this is the moment they first saw each other outside the church – it was a beautiful moment. Just look at Mike biting his lip as he realises how lucky he is to be marrying this beauty!

So happy!

Married!

All guests were invited to light a candle during the ceremony – I loved this idea.

A lovely moment during the signing of the register.

Ice creams were well needed in this heat!

I love the colours of the red bus against the blue skies and green trees and the architecture of the church, shown off by the wonderful light.

All the guests piled onto two buses and got a glass of champagne for the journey!

I got to go on the bus too – such fun!

The reception venue of Shoreditch Town Hall was very grand! (Someone mentioned that Elton John had had his birthday party here! Not surprised it was gorgeous!)

I love this one of Catriona and Mike with the sun coming in behind them through the trees.

The room was stunning and was made even more beautiful by the amazing floristry and details on every table.

See what I mean – what an amazing venue!

Catriona’s dress was vintage and I thought it was perfect for her tiny frame – stunning!

I love the way her dress hangs, the fabric was just so delicate!

This is the moment they came into the room – on the balcony – a great surprise for all of the guests!

Then they were greeted to music and dancing! So much fun!

This is Catriona with Mike’s dad, Emad.

After dinner speeches time!

I love it when the bride gives a speech, Catriona was so confident, even in front of over 200 people!

Mike said some really lovely things about Catriona.

John, the best man (also Mike’s brother) had written a hilarious speech, everyone was in fits of laughter!

A HUGE thank you to all involved in the wedding, especially to Catriona and Mike for making me so welcome! I thoroughly enjoyed myself and wish you a long, happy and healthy marriage.

The night before the workshop we met in a trendy hotel rooftop bar and were treated to free cocktails, but more importantly had a chance to meet the other people on the course, find out where they were from (people had travelled from far and wide!) and of course meet Jasmine and her lovely husband JD (who second shoots with her). Kat from RocknRollBride, a fab wedding blog in the UK, had very kindly organised the whole thing, so we got to meet her too – and her amazing shocking pink hair!

We’d already created a facebook page, so it was really great putting faces to names (and websites!) Everyone was very excited for our big day.

At 9am the next morning, we met at One Marylebone – a gorgeous wedding venue right near Regents Park – so after Jasmine had introduced everyone and we’d all had a chance to stand up and say a little about ourselves, we were treated to a beautiful breakfast of pastries and fruit cups . Then we got to work! There was no topic left uncovered, from branding and pricing to shooting and post-processing. Jasmine really poured out all her knowledge, experience and advice and answered any question shot at her. Lunch was also included and provided by some amazing caterers called The Recipe. Jasmine and Kat had organised a shoot in the afternoon where we got to photograph a couple who’d only got married in February this year (not models), so it was the perfect opportunity to pose real people, just like we all do at our weddings. (Models would have made it far too easy!) Rachel and Dan just happened to be super attractive which always helps! But more importantly they were lovely people, so friendly and willing – which was great because most people find being photographed by one photographer pretty scary, let alone 20 odd!

The day finished with more mouthwatering food, this time at a restaurant just down the road. Jasmine rotated around the tables between courses so we all got to ask any last questions that’d we’d thought about – which was fab. The conversation and laughter went well into the evening and I couldn’t bring myself to leave, as I didn’t want it to end! I got home at 2.15am the next morning, but it was so worth it! I loved every minute of it – from meeting all the other amazing photographers and suppliers, to hearing Jasmine’s and JD’s words of wisdom. Thank you Jasmine for opening up and sharing your wealth of knowledge and insight. Hope you enjoyed your time in England.

Now, it wouldn’t be right if I didn’t share some photos from the day!

And now for some behind the scenes action!

That’s Jasmine in the green.

Jasmine showing us one of her poses!

An ‘in between shots’ lovely moment between Rachel and Dan.

Kat and Elbie the make up lady looking on!

The class.

David doing his stuff – we all got a chance to pose and photograph our “models” for the day at some point, which was lovely if not a bit nervewracking in front of loads of other photographers (and Jasmine!)

And then lastly a photograph that encapsulates just how much fun we all had all day.

I would thoroughly recommend Jasmine’s course to any wedding photographer who’d like to up their game and learn from a very friendly, approachable and talented lady – with a gorgeous husband to boot!

A big thank you to Kat from Rock n Roll Bride for organising the event and the following suppliers too:

Venue: Alicia at One Marylebone http://www.onemarylebone.com/
Flowers: Pollen Nation http://www.pollen-nation.co.uk/
Cakes: Restoration Cake http://www.restorationcake.co.uk/ (mini cakes) and The Art of Cake http://janetmohapibanks.com/ (large ‘rose’ cake)
Furniture (chairs/tables/screen/sofas): Great Hire http://www.greathire.co.uk/
Caterers: The Recipe http://www.the-recipe.co.uk/
Hair: Severin Hubert of The Hepburn Collection http://www.hepburncollection.com/
Make Up: Elbie Van Eeden http://elbiehairandmakeup.wordpress.com/
Behind the Scenes Video: Richard Wakefield of FX Films http://www.fxfilms.co.uk/
Organiser/general dogsbody: Kat Williams of Rock n Roll Bride http://www.rocknrollbride.com/
Models: Rachel & Dan

The ceremony was at the Christchurch Chambers, which was great as it meant we were able to pop up the road to the castle ruins for some couple shots – it’s breathtaking up there! We then went back to the Lamb at Winkton which is a cute little pub, with great food!

It was such a fun day – Laura, Andy and their friends and family made me feel very welcome and even invited me and my husband Rob back in the evening for a few drinks! Thanks guys and wishing you a long and happy marriage!

I was so looking forward to this wedding, as we all got on so well at the pre-wedding shoot (see here) that I just knew it was going to be a blast. Sam and Rossi are so obviously madly in love and so relaxed with it. The venue was new to me too, I’d been up to visit the Elvetham Hotel with Sam and Rossi a few weeks before and it’s just beautiful – a stunning 19th Century mansion with 35 acres of picturesque grounds.

I started the day with Rossi, her mum and her sister all getting ready together in their room at the Elvetham.

Aren’t Rossi’s shoes amazing! She’d been telling me all about them – so I was so excited to finally see them!

Rossi’s room had a balcony – so I was able to go out and spy on the boys from a distance!

And the guests arriving!

Hilary, Sam’s mum makes stunning cakes – this is one of her masterpieces – I loved it as the colours were very similiar to what I chose for my wedding (Hilary also very kindly made our wedding cake too!)

I knew the boys would be more or less ready so I popped downstairs to see them for a bit and get some relaxed shots! I’m sure Rossi won’t mind me saying, Sam looks gorgeous here I think!

Then across the lawn for some more shots in the gardens. Just look at that weather! Not bad for March in England!

I love this one, I think they all look so cool. The matching RayBans were planned – nice touch!

Then I went back upstairs to see how Rossi was getting on – she’d moved across to the bridal suite – which was lovely. Rossi’s sister, Francesca was amazing all morning – so calm and organised – just what all brides need!

Such a perfect dress.

I popped my head out the window to see the boys having a sneaky pint in the sunshine – why not!

I had a few minutes, so popped downstairs again to photograph some more details with the boys. This is why I love it when bride and grooms get ready in the same place – I can get both sides of the story! This is Sam’s Grandfather’s pocket watch (which didn’t actually work, so Sam set it to the wedding date and time of the ceremony!) a lovely touch.
 

Seeing as Rossi’s legs and shoes were going to be under her dress for most of the day I took the opportunity to photograph them one more time! Love her tattoo!

A special moment between Rossi and her mum helping her get her dress on.

I love images like this when so much is going on with bridesmaids, family and friends before the ceremony.

I think Rossi looks stunning here.

Downstairs in the ceremony room, Sam was getting a bit nervous, but I’m glad I managed to get a smile out of him!

There were no less than four bestmen, but Peter was the guys with the rings – and a great job he did too!

I adore this one, it’s so Rossi – a quick thumbs up when they were announced as husband and wife!

And then a little dance too!

Then… the all important kiss!

It was emotional.

We then had a little wonder off for a bit for some couple shots.

Sam’s nephew, Casper was enjoying playing in the grounds. It was nice to see them again as I’d done a family portrait for Sam’s sister, Laura only a few weeks before.

Eric, the toastmaster mentioned there may be some daffodils out at the bottom of the garden. It was well worth the walk – amazing thanks Eric!

Meet Hilary – of cake fame.

The boys (bestmen) were so much fun – this shot just has me cracking up!

Rossi and her mum, Valeria.

Here’s Eric – he was lovely, I do hope I get to work with him again.

Sam and Rossi had the conservatory for their wedding breakfast it looked perfect.

Rossi’s dad, Colin’s speech was really funny.

Gary, Sam’s dad seemed to enjoy it.

And even did some heckling! Typical Gary!

Rossi looking embarrassed!

Then it was the best men’s turn to all say a few words – some very heartfelt speeches here.

Then last but not least Francesca (Rossi’s sister) said a few words and even had props (told you she was organised!!)

I love this moment between Sam and his dad. Very special.

Then into the party – Sam and Rossi kicked things off with a traditional first dance!

So. In. Love.

I was told afterwards that the band were only put together for the wedding! They were AMAZING! They had so much great feedback though that they’re going to do more now (let me know if you’d like details).

Later in the evening Sam got up and showed us his skills!

And said a few words of thanks.

Nathan’s dad booked me for their wedding photography, so I didn’t get to meet the happy couple until the rehearsal. Which as it turned out, was just fine as both Nathan and Jenny are one of the most relaxed couples I’ve ever worked with! Nothing was stressing them out – they were just happy to be getting married – how it should be!

The day started at Testwood Baptist Church in Totton.

Nathan and his brothers.

Malcolm, Nathan’s Dad. (I’d photographed his birthday party a few years ago).

Smart shoes or what!

Jenny’s brother, Wayne and her sister, Amy gave her away.

I thought Jenny looked gorgeous…

I love Jenny’s face in this one! So happy!

 Leigh did a fab job of taking the ceremony.

The cake was scrummy!

Then we all headed onto Forest Lodge Hotel in Lyndhurst – I’d done a wedding here last year – so knew the good places for photos already!

We started off with some couple shots whilst we were waiting for the rest of the guests to arrive.

I love the colours in this one.

A big thank you to everyone at the wedding for making me feel very welcome and especially Nathan and Jenny – glad you had a great time in the snow for your honeymoon!

Carrie x

If you’re an aspiring professional or keen amateur photographer looking to improve your skills, then Leeds-based 3B Media are a company that are willing to help!

If you’re a photographer looking at getting into the wedding photography market, or someone you know has agreed to let you try out your skills on there wedding then this is definitely a workshop you wont want to miss. 3B Media have photographed hundreds of weddings and know the business back-to-front. This one-day practical workshop based in a boutique hotel in Leeds is focussed around getting some stunning portfolio images and some real-life practice on a real bride & groom, whilst giving you the need-to-know basics on organising yourself before, during and after the big day.

You’ll get some great posing techniques to get the best out of even the most nervous couple and leave them with some great pictures and lovely memories. You’ll also leave with loads of invaluable information surrounding the planning and practicalities of wedding photography.

This workshop is not a gear-intensive course and will give you an amazing portfolio of images that will be repeatable on the wedding day. A basic working knowledge on how to use your DSLR will be required, as it’s focussed less on technique and more on your style and approach to photographing weddings. At only £275 per delegate including lunch and refreshments, this is a great investment to your photography and your business.

You can view full details of the One Day Weddings workshop and book online via the 3B Media website here.

3B Media love sharing knowledge and love it when something just clicks. Flash photography is one of those things that once you know what’s going on behind the scenes then everything makes sense. Their really popular course, Exposing Flash is for all those photographers who want to take control of their flash photography and learn to master their flashguns to create energetic, fun and funky portraits. You’ll learn you how to take the flashgun off the camera, and be given the fundamental building blocks of flash photography using a variety of creative and practical techniques to take and make pictures you never thought possible with just one flashgun.

This really is an eye-opening day, and 3B Media believe there’s currently no other course that gives you as much useful information on flash photography in the UK. If you’re always fumbling with your camera and flash settings in the dark and still not getting the results you want, then this is definitely an investment you need to make.

The content of this practical workshop, based in the heart of Leeds city centre, will allow you to repeat the techniques you’ll learn with your own equipment and without the need of an assistant. There’ll be a friendly 3B model for you to shoot on the day to create fresh images for your portfolio.

• The pros and cons of manual flash Vs E-TTL

• The relationship between ambient light and flash; know this and everything becomes clear!

• Great tips and tricks to get the most out of your flashgun

• Easy, impressive and repeatable techniques to take your off-camera flash photography to the next level.

Whatever the weather, you’ll leave with fresh, portfolio quality images, exciting and repeatable skills on how to shoot great portraits and a 3B Media worksheet pack so you don’t forget what you’ve learnt!

You can view full details of the Exposing Flash workshop and book online via the 3B Media website here.

3B Media have agreat one day workshop lined up which is all about image processing and creating a super slick workflow using the amazing Adobe Lightroom. We’ve been using Lightroom since it first came out in 2007 and it’s completely changed our approach to editing. The speed with which you can edit a job, especially when it comes to a large edit like a batch of several hundred wedding images is incredible and 3B Media are sure that once you know how to use this software, you’ll be shaving dozens of hours off your workflow.

The other major draw to this incredible application is the power and control you have over processing the images. The choice you have in turning your picture from an average one into a well polished and beautiful one is mind-blowing, but it can be daunting to the first time user with what to do with all those controls. You’ll be shown what they all do, what order to do them in, and loads of great insider-tips to get the best out of every single image.

In short, Lightroom allows you to turn around your photography better, faster and more consistently than any other program out there. You’ll wonder how you ever managed without it. If you haven’t yet purchased your copy, you can download a FREE demo version here: Adobe Photoshop Lightroom.

The workshop is classroom based in the heart of Leeds city centre and it suitable to all professional and amateur photographers looking to take their image processing to the next level. The price is £175 per delegate including lunch and refreshments, which is nothing compared to the hours you’ll save once you’ve learnt what we’ve got to show you!

To book online and find out all the details of the Lightroom: Basics workshop click here!

Slowed down by shutter speeds? Agonising over apertures? Frustrated with focussing?

3B Media’s photography evening class is called “Get To Know Your Digital SLR” and is all about learning the very basics of photography. If you’ve just got your first DSLR then this is the class that will get you on your feet and start shooting with more confidence and more creatively.

You’ll learn the basics of: Aperture, shutter speeds, ISO, composition, lenses, focussing and lots of other tech stuff but without all the tech language.

The evening class is in Leeds and they have 4 dates lined up: 15th March, 21st April, 10th May and 21st September between 6:30 and 9:30pm.

It’s going to be a lot of fun, with two 3B Media pro photographers on board to answer all your questions (even the silly ones) and will make an ideal gift if you’re struggling for ideas for your wanna-be-photo-junkie partner. For online booking and all the information you need, head over to the 3B Media website at: http://www.3bmedia.co.uk/index.php/workshops/get-to-know-your-dslr

I’ve known Sam’s family all of my life (his Dad used to teach at the same school as my Mum before any of us “kids” were born!) – but I hadn’t seen Sam since he was a little boy – it’s funny how he looked exactly how I imagined him to look (but even taller!)

Sam and Rossi are getting married next month at the Elvetham Hotel, in Hook, Hampshire so it seemed a great idea, as they live in Bournemouth, to do their pre-wedding shoot on the seaside at Bournemouth. The weather was horrendous for the first two dates we picked, so we postponed and in the end we couldn’t have asked for nicer weather on the day of the shoot. The sun was shining and it was really warm (until it went in then we were reminded it was definitely February!)

I’m starting to do more and more pre-wedding/engagement shoots and each one is so much fun. But more importantly it’s a great opportunity to spend some time with the couple before the wedding day, getting them used to being photographed, building up a rapport and ultimately trust, that on the wedding day, the couple know that I can take good photos of them! All of the shoots I’ve done so far have enabled the couple to be so much more relaxed on the wedding day.

As the sun was so strong when we arrived, we chose to go to have a coffee and go through the normal pre-wedding meeting plans first – where I’m going to be when on the big day etc etc. By the time we came out the sun had softened slightly, but we still seeked shade for some shots.

Sam and Rossi brought their very cool sunglasses (Ray Bans no less!) for some of the shots – which was a fab idea!

We started off on the pier…

Then we went under the pier!

Just look at that sun! How lucky were we?

I love this one of Sam (Rossi does too!) he reminds me so much of his Dad! (sorry Sam!)

That wave came in a bit faster than they expected! What you can’t see is I was doing the same thing (running from the wave)!

As the sun was dropping it was just beautiful.

Sam decided to “dip” Rossi here – they’ve since told me they love this photo and apparently didn’t even realise I took a photo at this point!

What a beautiful couple!

I sincerely hope that they think I’m this funny on the wedding day – the photos will be so easy!

Thank you once again Sam and Rossi for such a great afternoon we had a blast! Reminding me that I have the best job in the world! Can’t wait for the wedding!

If you’d like to see the whole shoot – please look here.

Please feel free to leave comments below.