Why You Should Book a Dog Photoshoot with The Story of You

In a world where our pets are more like family than ever before, capturing their unique personalities and timeless moments through professional dog photography has become increasingly popular. If you're considering a dog photoshoot in the UK, there’s no better choice than The Story of You. Specialising in personalised, emotive, and candid pet portraits, The Story of You is redefining how we document the lives of our beloved dogs.

Here’s why booking a dog photoshoot with The Story of You isn’t just a luxury, it’s a meaningful investment in memories that will last a lifetime.

1. Capture Your Dog’s True Personality

Every dog is different. Whether your pup is playful, shy, goofy or regal, The Story of You is an award winning expert in pet photography and are skilled at capturing the essence of your dog’s personality in every frame. These aren't just posed portraits, they're soulful, storytelling images that reflect who your dog truly is.

Through natural lighting, outdoor locations, and a calm, animal-friendly approach, The Story of You ensures your dog is relaxed and at ease. This means more authentic photos and fewer forced smiles (or panting tongues!).

2. Professional Pet Photography That Stands Out

With high quality equipment, years of experience, and an artistic eye, The Story of You delivers images that look like they belong in a magazine. This is not your average smartphone snap. Every image is professionally edited, colour corrected, and crafted to reflect your dog’s individuality.

The attention to detail, from fur texture to eye sparkle, ensures each photograph is a timeless piece of art. Whether you frame it, turn it into a canvas, or share it on social media, these pictures will make a lasting impression.

3. A Memory That Lasts a Lifetime

Dogs sadly don’t live forever, but your memories with them can. Booking a dog photoshoot is a way of celebrating their life, love, and companionship. Whether your dog is a lively pup or a senior companion, each stage of their life is worth remembering.

Many clients at The Story of You book a photoshoot to commemorate special milestones: birthdays, “gotcha” days, or even as a tribute to dogs nearing the rainbow bridge. These sessions become cherished keepsakes for years to come.

4. Tailored Sessions to Suit Every Dog

At The Story of You, no two sessions are alike. Every dog photoshoot is tailored to match your dog’s temperament, age, and your vision. Whether you want a playful park session, a countryside adventure, or cosy moments at home, your experience is custom-designed from start to finish.

The Story of You also offers studio sessions at the studio in Barnsley, and can also often be found at many dog shows offering their pop up studio

5. Perfect Gift for Dog Lovers

Looking for a thoughtful and unique gift for a fellow dog lover? A gift voucher for a dog photoshoot with The Story of You is a heartfelt gesture. Whether it’s for a birthday, Christmas, or just because, it's a present that truly shows how much you care.

With beautifully designed gift vouchers and flexible booking options, giving the gift of treasured memories has never been easier.

6. Stunning Locations Across the UK

The Story of You operates across various picturesque UK locations, from scenic woodlands and beaches to charming urban backdrops. Whether you're based in London, the Midlands, or the North, there's a dog photoshoot location to suit you.

If you have a special place that means the world to you and your dog, the photographer can travel there too turning your local park or favourite trail into the perfect set.

7. More Than Just Photos – It’s a Story

As the name suggests, The Story of You isn’t about taking a quick snapshot. It’s about storytelling. Each image is part of a visual narrative that tells the story of your dog’s life, their bond with you, and the joy they bring into the world.

This approach makes the final images so much more meaningful. It’s not just what your dog looks like, it’s about who they are, how they move, what they love, and the energy they bring into your life.

8. Easy Booking and Exceptional Service

Booking a dog photoshoot with The Story of You is simple and stress-free. From the initial enquiry to the final gallery delivery, you’ll experience friendly, professional service tailored to your needs. Communication is clear, and you’re involved at every step: from planning the shoot to choosing your favourite images.

The final products prints, albums, wall art, are of premium quality and handled with great care.

9. A Chance to Be in the Frame Too

While the focus is often on your four-legged friend, you’re welcome to join in the fun. Many dog owners opt for joint portraits that capture the deep bond between them and their dog. Whether it's a snuggle, a walk together, or a shared laugh, these images can be incredibly moving.

You don’t need to be a model, just be yourself. The Story of You has a way of making even the most camera-shy owners feel comfortable.

10. Celebrate the Joy of Dogs

Above all, a dog photoshoot is about celebrating the joy, love and loyalty that dogs bring into our lives. The laughter they inspire, the comfort they give, and the memories they help create are all worth preserving.

With The Story of You, you’re not just booking a photography session. You’re honouring a cherished family member. And when the day is over, you’ll have a beautiful collection of images that reflect that joy forever.

Ready to Book?

If you're ready to create lasting memories and honour your beloved pet, visit The Story of You website today to learn more and book your session. Whether you have a puppy, a senior dog, or anything in between, let their story be told beautifully.

Because every dog has a story and it deserves to be remembered.

UK Wedding Myths: 10 Common Beliefs Debunked

Weddings are steeped in tradition, symbolism, and, unsurprisingly, a fair share of myths. In the UK, generations of folklore, superstition, and old wives’ tales have shaped how we celebrate the big day but how many of these beliefs are actually rooted in truth? From cursed colours to lucky horseshoes, let’s unravel the mystery behind some of the most enduring UK wedding myths.

1. It’s Bad Luck for the Groom to See the Bride Before the Wedding

One of the most well-known UK wedding superstitions is that the groom mustn’t see the bride in her dress before the ceremony. This idea stems from the days of arranged marriages, where the couple didn’t meet until the ceremony and avoiding each other beforehand reduced the risk of one party backing out.

Reality:

Today, many couples choose a “first look” before the ceremony for an intimate moment away from the crowd. The only thing this breaks is tradition not your luck!

2. Rain on Your Wedding Day is Good Luck

This is a popular saying designed to comfort couples facing wet weather on their special day. The myth suggests that rain symbolises fertility, cleansing, and renewal.

Reality:

Whilst it might not feel lucky to have rain on your wedding day, it can actually turn into some of the most romantic shots. Creating some fantastic timeless pieces using reflections in puddles. There is actually a lot we can do with rain.

3. You Must Wear Something Old, New, Borrowed and Blue

This traditional rhyme has been followed by British brides for centuries. Each item symbolises good fortune:

• Old represents continuity

• New signifies hope for the future

• Borrowed usually comes from a happily married friend or family member

• Blue symbolises love and fidelity

Reality:

While charming, it is rarely seen in today’s weddings. Many modern couples adapt the idea or skip it altogether without any supposed consequence.

4. Saturday is the Unluckiest Day to Get Married

Believe it or not, folklore suggests Saturday is actually the most unlucky day for weddings. According to an old English rhyme, “Monday for health, Tuesday for wealth, Wednesday the best day of all, Thursday for losses, Friday for crosses, and Saturday no luck at all.”

Reality:

Despite the rhyme, Saturday is now one of the most popular wedding day in the UK due to convenience for guests. Clearly, this myth hasn’t held much sway!

5. You Shouldn’t Marry in May

“Marry in May, and you’ll rue the day” is an old English superstition rooted in pagan customs and the belief that May was an unlucky month for weddings.

Reality:

May is one of the most beautiful months in the UK for a wedding with blooming flowers and pleasant weather. The belief is mostly historical and no longer widely followed.

6. The Bride Shouldn’t Make Her Own Dress

According to old lore, a bride who sews her own dress is stitching her tears into the marriage implying sorrow to come.

Reality:

Many modern brides with a flair for sewing are ditching this myth and creating stunning, personalised dresses. If anything, it adds sentimental value and uniqueness to the big day.

7. Dropping the Wedding Ring is a Sign of Doomed Love

One particularly dramatic UK wedding myth claims that if the ring is dropped during the ceremony, disaster awaits the marriage. Some even say whoever drops it will die first!

Reality:

This one is pure superstition. Slippery fingers and nerves are common at weddings don’t let a fumbled ring overshadow your joy.

8. It’s Lucky to See a Chimney Sweep on Your Wedding Day

An old English belief states that seeing a chimney sweep brings good fortune. Some couples even hire one to appear at the ceremony for a symbolic photo.

Reality:

While chimney sweeps are rare in modern life, this tradition has become a whimsical add-on for nostalgic or superstitious couples. It’s harmless fun and who doesn’t want a bit of extra luck?

9. Horseshoes Bring Marital Luck

In UK tradition, brides often carry or wear a horseshoe (open end up) as a symbol of luck and fertility. This custom dates back to ancient times when iron was believed to ward off evil spirits.

Reality:

While not as common today, horseshoes still appear as decorations or keepsakes. Some brides opt for modern takes, like lace-covered or beaded versions.

10. The Best Man Must Guard the Bride

In medieval times, the best man’s role was more literal he stood guard to prevent the bride from being kidnapped or escaping, especially during arranged marriages.

Reality:

Today, the best man is mostly responsible for the rings, the speech, and keeping the groom in check. Luckily, bride snatching isn’t typically part of modern UK weddings!

Final Thoughts on UK Wedding Myths

Weddings in the UK are rich with history, heritage, and a good dose of folklore. While many of these wedding myths are fascinating, most are rooted in outdated customs or superstitions. Today’s couples are redefining what traditions mean to them, choosing which to honour, reimagine, or ignore completely.

The truth is, no amount of blue ribbon, chimney sweeps, or perfectly dry skies can guarantee a successful marriage. The real “luck” comes from love, communication, and shared commitment.

Choosing the best colours for a Spring Wedding

Spring is a season of renewal, with nature bursting into life after the winter chill. For many couples, it’s the ideal time to celebrate their wedding day. The soft pastels, vibrant florals, and fresh outdoor settings make spring weddings feel light, romantic, and full of possibilities. As a wedding photographer, I've had the privilege of capturing the beauty of spring weddings from all angles, and one of the most exciting aspects is the colour palette. The right colours can set the tone for your entire celebration, influencing everything from the floral arrangements to the attire and even your wedding photos.

But how do you choose the perfect colours for your spring wedding? Below, I’ll walk you through some of the best spring wedding colour ideas and offer tips on how to create a harmonious, memorable look that will shine through in your wedding photos.

1. Soft Pastels: Timeless Elegance

Pastel colours are the quintessential spring wedding palette. Soft hues like blush pink, lavender, baby blue, mint green, and pale peach evoke a sense of gentleness and romance, making them perfect for this season. These colours also photograph beautifully in natural light, especially when used in delicate fabrics like chiffon, tulle, and satin.

For a cohesive pastel look, consider using one or two main colours for your bridal party, and incorporate a third colour in your floral arrangements or table settings. For example, blush pink bridesmaid dresses paired with lavender flowers create a harmonious, timeless effect.

Photography Tip: Pastels are excellent for creating dreamy, soft wedding photos. These colours pop against the natural greenery of spring and add a light, airy feel to your images.

2. Earthy Tones: A Connection to Nature

Earthy tones are another fantastic choice for spring weddings, especially if you’re planning a more rustic or outdoor celebration. Think terracotta, sage green, olive, mustard yellow, and soft browns. These colours mirror the earth’s natural beauty and pair wonderfully with natural textures like wood, stone, and linen.

Earthy tones create a warm, inviting atmosphere, and they work well in a garden setting or barn venue. The beauty of these hues is their versatility — you can use them for both your wedding attire and your décor. For instance, sage green bridesmaid dresses can be paired with golden table settings, while terracotta accents can complement rustic floral arrangements.

Photography Tip: Earthy tones help create rich, textured photos. These colours look stunning in natural light, and they also stand out beautifully against the lush greens of spring foliage.

3. Vibrant Florals: Celebrating Spring’s Full Glory

Spring is synonymous with blooming flowers, so why not take advantage of the season’s natural beauty by incorporating vibrant floral colours into your wedding palette? Rich shades of coral, fuchsia, violet, and sunflower yellow bring energy and excitement to your wedding day. These colours are especially ideal for couples who want a bold, lively celebration.

You can use vibrant floral colours in your wedding bouquet, centrepieces, and even in your wedding attire. A coral wedding dress or a bright floral arrangement will give your wedding a playful and fresh feel.

Photography Tip: Vibrant colours can add dynamic pops to your wedding photos, especially when surrounded by the green of spring. The contrast between bold florals and natural backdrops results in stunning, eye-catching images.

4. Neutral Shades: Understated Beauty

If you prefer a more minimalist approach, neutral shades like ivory, champagne, soft grey, and white are timeless choices that never go out of style. Neutral colours have the ability to complement almost any venue, from grand ballrooms to intimate garden ceremonies.

An all-white wedding gown, paired with ivory or soft grey bridesmaid dresses, creates an elegant and sophisticated look. Neutral colours also provide a blank canvas for accent colours, such as gold or silver, to shine in your décor, floral arrangements, and accessories.

Photography Tip: Neutral colours photograph exceptionally well in both black-and-white and colour images, making them a great choice for couples who want a timeless, classic aesthetic. Soft neutrals allow for flexibility in your photo editing while maintaining a chic look.

5. Dusty Blues and Greens: Calm and Serene

For a spring wedding, dusty shades of blue and green are both calming and sophisticated. Dusty blue, in particular, has been gaining popularity in recent years for its cool undertones, which work wonderfully with both traditional and contemporary wedding themes. Paired with muted greens, this colour scheme evokes a peaceful, serene vibe perfect for springtime.

Dusty blue bridesmaid dresses, for example, complement soft white florals, while dusty green table settings bring a touch of nature indoors. These colours are ideal for a romantic and intimate atmosphere.

Photography Tip: Dusty blue and green tones are particularly stunning in outdoor settings. The combination of muted hues and natural light creates soft, dreamy wedding photos that feel peaceful and refined.

6. Romantic Reds and Pinks: Classic Passion

For couples who want to bring passion and romance to their spring wedding, a palette of reds and pinks is a beautiful option. While deep red may seem more suited to autumn or winter, soft rose, raspberry, and coral shades are perfect for spring.

This colour scheme works wonderfully for floral arrangements, bridal bouquets, and bridesmaid dresses. A red wedding bouquet with pink accents creates a striking yet romantic look, and it photographs beautifully against a backdrop of fresh spring blooms.

Photography Tip: Red and pink are bold colours that stand out in photos, especially when paired with a natural or white background. These hues are perfect for capturing the romantic energy of your wedding day.

7. Golden Accents: A Touch of Glamour

To add a bit of sparkle to your spring wedding, consider incorporating golden accents into your colour scheme. Whether it’s gold tableware, metallic shoes, or gilded floral arrangements, gold complements any spring palette and adds a touch of glamour and sophistication.

Gold pairs beautifully with pastels, neutrals, or even darker tones like navy blue or emerald green. If you’re aiming for a vintage-inspired or elegant look, a hint of gold can elevate your wedding décor and tie everything together.

Photography Tip: Gold accents will catch the light and add a glamorous touch to your wedding photos. This reflective element can enhance your images, especially in a sunset or evening setting.

8. Bold Blues and Yellows: Bright and Cheerful

If you want to make a statement and celebrate the vibrancy of spring, a combination of bold blues and yellows is an excellent choice. These colours radiate energy and optimism, creating a fun and festive atmosphere for your wedding day.

A rich navy blue paired with bright sunflower yellow creates a striking contrast, while lighter shades of blue with soft yellow bring a cheerful yet relaxed vibe. This palette is perfect for a modern or whimsical spring wedding.

Photography Tip: Bold blues and yellows create a lively contrast in photos. These colours pop in both outdoor and indoor settings, and they’ll make your images feel energetic and joyful.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right colours for your spring wedding is an exciting part of the planning process. Whether you prefer soft pastels, earthy tones, or bold, vibrant hues, there are endless possibilities to make your day uniquely yours. As a wedding photographer, I can tell you that the colours you choose will play a significant role in how your wedding day is captured, so take the time to select a palette that reflects your style and enhances your venue.

Remember, spring is all about new beginnings, and the colours you choose should celebrate the beauty and joy of the season. Whatever palette you decide on, your wedding will be a stunning reflection of your love and the beautiful springtime setting.

Why Book the Tipis at Riley Green for Your Wedding: A Photographer’s Perspective

Your wedding day is a celebration of love, joy, and togetherness, and the venue you choose plays a significant role in setting the tone and atmosphere of your big day. While traditional venues are always a reliable choice, increasingly couples are opting for something more unique and personal like the stunning tipis at Riley Green. As a photographer, I can confidently say that these tipis offer an unforgettable backdrop for your wedding, creating a relaxed, intimate, and truly magical experience.

In this blog post, I’ll explain why booking the tipis at Riley Green for your wedding is an excellent decision not just for the overall vibe but also for creating incredible wedding photographs that you will cherish forever.

1. A Unique and Picturesque Setting

One of the standout reasons to book the tipis at Riley Green is the venue’s natural beauty. Located in the heart of the countryside, the site offers a stunning setting surrounded by lush greenery, rolling fields, and tranquil views the perfect environment for a rustic and elegant wedding.

As a photographer, I’m always looking for settings that add depth and character to the images. The tipis themselves are magnificent structures, with their sweeping canvas roofs and intricate detailing. They offer a rustic charm, while still being spacious and comfortable. When set up with fairy lights, candles, and beautiful floral arrangements, the tipis transform into a breathtaking venue that provides endless opportunities for stunning photographs.

Whether you’re hosting your ceremony inside the tipis or using them as your reception space, the surrounding landscape and natural light create the ideal backdrop for everything from intimate portraits to large group shots. The ever-changing natural lighting throughout the day provides a range of moods and tones that will bring your photos to life, whether you're taking them in the golden hour sunlight, under a dramatic stormy sky, or at twilight with the warm glow of the lights in the background.

2. Versatility and Customisation

The beauty of the tipis at Riley Green lies in their versatility. Unlike traditional venues, the tipis offer flexibility in how they can be styled and arranged. This means you can truly make the space your own, reflecting your personal style and the unique theme you have in mind for your wedding.

Whether you dream of a vintage, bohemian, or festival-style wedding, the tipis provide a blank canvas for you to bring your vision to life. You can add floral installations, rustic wooden furniture, or extravagant chandeliers, the possibilities are endless! As a photographer, this is incredibly exciting because I can tailor the photos to the distinctive style you’ve chosen, creating a cohesive set of images that truly tell the story of your wedding day.

For example, I love capturing the contrast between the natural, earthy tones of the venue and the rich colours of your floral arrangements, table settings, and wedding attire. The unique and adaptable space allows for creativity, making each shot feel fresh and personal.

3. An Intimate and Personal Atmosphere

One of the reasons so many couples choose the tipis at Riley Green is the intimate atmosphere they provide. Unlike large, impersonal venues, the tipis offer a warm, cosy, and welcoming space that encourages close connection between guests.

This sense of intimacy is perfect for creating genuine moments between you and your loved ones, moments that are a joy to capture. The relaxed, informal vibe encourages guests to let their guard down and enjoy the day without the stiffness of a more traditional setting. As a photographer, this results in truly candid and emotional shots. I’m able to capture real, unposed moments from laughter-filled conversations to joyful dances and heartfelt speeches.

The outdoor nature of the tipis also means you can easily incorporate natural elements into your wedding, whether it's a stunning outdoor ceremony, an alfresco dinner, or a late-night bonfire. These elements provide beautiful and dynamic shots, as well as more intimate moments with your guests, giving your wedding album a personal touch.

4. Plenty of Space for All Your Guests

One common concern couples may have when considering a tipi wedding is the space available for guests. The tipis at Riley Green are designed to be spacious and adaptable. With multiple tipis available, you can easily accommodate large wedding parties, making it a perfect option for both intimate weddings and larger celebrations.

The space allows for a variety of different areas — a designated dining area, a dance floor, a cosy corner for guests to relax, and plenty of space for mingling. As a photographer, this layout allows me to move freely and capture the event from multiple angles. I’m able to photograph guests enjoying themselves in different parts of the venue, ensuring no important moment goes unnoticed.

Moreover, the versatility of the tipis means that we can capture a range of different wedding shots, from wide-angle shots of the entire space to more personal, close-up moments between the couple and their guests. This variety adds richness and depth to the final wedding album.

5. Stunning Sunset and Nighttime Photos

One of my absolute favourite things about the tipis at Riley Green is the incredible opportunity to capture stunning sunset and nighttime photographs. As the sun sets over the countryside, the sky is painted in hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your wedding photos.

The open fields surrounding the tipis also allow for perfect portraits during the golden hour. As the soft light of the setting sun bathes you and your guests in a warm glow, the images that result are timeless and romantic. This is an ideal time for capturing couples’ portraits that exude warmth, love, and the magic of the moment.

As the evening continues, the tipis come alive with lights, candles, and fairy lights twinkling in the dark. The contrast between the soft glow inside the tipis and the deepening night sky creates a truly enchanting atmosphere. These lighting conditions are perfect for capturing some of the most magical photos of your wedding day, from the first dance to moments shared with loved ones.

6. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Weddings

For couples who are passionate about the environment, Riley Green and its tipis are a great choice for a sustainable wedding. The tipis are a more eco-friendly option compared to traditional venues, which often require energy-intensive lighting and heating. Additionally, the natural surroundings and the emphasis on outdoor spaces help create a harmonious connection with nature.

As a photographer, I love working in environments that are mindful of sustainability because they offer a raw, authentic aesthetic. The organic beauty of nature becomes an extension of the celebration, enhancing the photographs with elements like natural light, greenery, and the natural textures of wood and canvas.

7. Unforgettable Memories in a Stunning Location

Ultimately, booking the tipis at Riley Green provides more than just a beautiful wedding venue — it offers an unforgettable experience that will remain etched in your memories forever. From the moment you arrive and see the stunning tipis set against the idyllic countryside backdrop, to the relaxed yet elegant atmosphere of your reception, every part of your day will feel special.

As your photographer, I can promise that the tipis will provide an unparalleled setting for capturing moments that reflect the essence of your love story. The natural beauty, intimate atmosphere, and flexibility of the space make it one of the most visually striking venues I’ve had the pleasure of working in.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right wedding venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your big day. The tipis at Riley Green offer a unique, picturesque, and unforgettable setting that combines the beauty of nature with the charm of a rustic venue. As a photographer, I can confidently say that these tipis provide everything you need for stunning, timeless wedding photos that will capture the love, joy, and magic of your celebration.

If you’re looking for a wedding venue that offers beauty, versatility, and an intimate atmosphere, look no further than the tipis at Riley Green. Trust me, your wedding photos will be nothing short of extraordinary. Get in touch today to discuss how we can make your tipi wedding photography truly spectacular!

How to select the Right Wedding Photography Package

Your wedding day is one of the most significant milestones in your life. As you walk down the aisle, exchange vows, and celebrate with friends and family, the memories you create will stay with you forever. Choosing the right wedding photographer to capture these moments is essential but with so many different packages available, how do you know which one is the best fit for you?

At The Story of You, we understand that every couple is unique, and so are their wedding photography needs. Whether you're looking for full-day coverage or just a few hours of shots, there are various options to consider. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting the ideal wedding photography package, helping you make an informed decision that reflects your style, preferences, and budget.

1. Understand the Different Types of Wedding Photography Packages

When it comes to wedding photography, the most important step is to understand the types of packages available. Generally, wedding photography packages fall into a few main categories:

Full-Day Coverage

Full-day coverage typically means your photographer will be with you from the morning preparations all the way through to the evening celebrations. This package is ideal for couples who want to capture every moment of their big day from getting ready, to the ceremony, reception, and even late-night dancing. This is usually around 10 hour of coverage

Half-Day Coverage

If you don’t want your photographer to be with you all day, a half-day package is an option. This usually covers the ceremony and part of the reception, offering enough time for key moments like the couple portraits, family photos, and the first dance. A half day package from The Story of You is around 6 hours of coverage

Shorter Coverage

For more intimate weddings, or if you prefer fewer formal shots, a shorter package (typically 3 hours or less) may be a good choice. This is perfect if you're having a small ceremony or only need coverage for specific parts of the day, such as the ceremony and group shots.

Custom Packages

At The Story of You, we offer flexibility with custom packages. If none of the standard packages perfectly suits your needs, we can create a bespoke option tailored to the specific moments you want captured. Custom packages allow for more control over what you get and can help ensure you're not paying for hours of coverage that aren’t necessary.

2. Consider Your Budget

Wedding photography is one of the most important investments you’ll make for your big day. While we all want beautiful photos, it’s important to be realistic about your budget. Wedding photography packages can range from a few hundred to a few thousand pounds, depending on the photographer’s experience, the length of coverage, and any additional services included (such as albums, prints, or second shooters).

To choose the right package for your budget, consider:

• What you can afford: Be honest about how much you’re willing to spend on wedding photography. Remember, this is an investment that will preserve your memories for a lifetime. Your wedding photographs are often the only remaining physical memory from your wedding day, that can stay with you forever.

• What’s included: Some packages may appear cheaper upfront but don’t include key services, such as travel costs or high-quality prints. Be sure to compare what’s included in the cost.

• Consider value over cost: Wedding photography isn’t just about the price — it’s about the experience and the quality of work you’ll receive. Opting for the cheapest option may lead to disappointment, so look for a photographer who aligns with your style and offers a value-packed package.

3. What’s Included in the Package?

When evaluating a wedding photography package, always look at what’s included. Some packages are all-inclusive, while others may offer additional add-ons for an extra fee. Common inclusions to look out for are:

• Number of hours: Make sure the package covers enough hours for your wedding. It’s important to discuss the timeline of your day with your photographer to ensure they’re available for key moments.

• Pre-wedding consultation: Many photographers offer a pre-wedding consultation or engagement shoot, which gives you a chance to get comfortable in front of the camera and discuss the details of your day.

• Second photographer: A second shooter can provide a more comprehensive view of your wedding day, capturing candid moments, different angles, and a wider range of emotions. Some packages include this service, while others offer it as an additional option.

• Editing and post-production: Some photographers include full editing in the package, while others may charge extra for this service. Be sure to clarify what’s included in the post-production process to ensure your photos are polished and professionally edited.

• Albums and prints: Wedding albums and prints can often be added to packages, but not all photographers include these in the initial package. If having a physical album is important to you, make sure to choose a package that offers this or is available as an add-on.

• Travel fees: If your wedding is outside the photographer’s local area, ensure the cost of travel is included, or ask about additional travel fees.

4. Do You Need a Second Shooter?

A second photographer is an additional professional photographer who works alongside the main photographer to capture more moments throughout the day. This is especially beneficial for larger weddings or those with multiple locations.

A second shooter is ideal if you’re planning a grand wedding or want to ensure every detail is captured — such as the groom’s reaction to the bride walking down the aisle, or candid shots of guests during the reception. If your photographer offers the option of adding a second shooter, it may be worth considering for comprehensive coverage.

At The Story of You, we offer second shooters as part of many of our packages, ensuring you get a wider range of photographs and more moments captured.

5. Personal Style and Experience of the Photographer

The best wedding photography package for you should align with your personal style and the kind of memories you want to create. Consider the photographer’s style and experience when selecting a package. Do you want candid, documentary-style shots, or more traditional, posed portraits?

It’s also worth checking the photographer’s portfolio to ensure their work resonates with you. A photographer’s style will significantly impact how your photos turn out, so choose one whose work you love. Don’t be afraid to ask for references or reviews from past clients.

6. Discuss the Timeline of Your Day

Once you’ve shortlisted a few photographers and packages, have a conversation about the timeline of your wedding day. This helps to ensure the photographer can capture all the essential moments and gives them an idea of how long they’ll need to be there.

If your wedding is spread out over different locations or has multiple key events (e.g., pre-wedding photos, ceremony, reception, speeches, and dancing), you may need extended coverage. If it’s a more intimate affair, a shorter package might be sufficient.

7. Review the Contract and Terms

Once you’ve selected your wedding photography package, make sure to carefully review the photographer’s contract. This should include the following:

• Payment structure: Ensure you understand the deposit amount and the schedule for full payment.

• Cancellation and rescheduling policies: Life can be unpredictable, so it’s important to know the photographer’s cancellation or rescheduling policy in case your wedding plans change.

• Delivery timeline: Ask about the photographer’s expected delivery timeline for your wedding photos. You don’t want to be left waiting months for your images, so confirm how long it will take before you receive your final photos and any prints or albums.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right wedding photography package is a big decision, but with careful consideration, you can ensure that the memories of your wedding day are beautifully captured for years to come. Whether you're planning a grand celebration or an intimate affair, The Story of You offers a variety of packages designed to suit different budgets, styles, and needs.

By understanding your options, setting a realistic budget, and considering what’s included in each package, you’ll be able to make an informed decision that reflects your vision for the big day. After all, your wedding photos are the timeless keepsakes you’ll cherish forever.

Feel free to get in touch with us at www.thestoryofyou.co.uk to discuss your wedding photography needs. We’d love to help you capture the magic of your wedding day!