In the beginning!
My interest in photography started early, thanks to a small hand-me-down camera my dad gave me when I was five. It only took eight photos at a time, and I had to wait a week for the prints to come back, but those first simple shots - our cat, my younger brother, the dog, the house, even the washing line - were enough to get me hooked.
I went on to study Photography at the University of Plymouth, graduating in 1999. While I was there, I worked in a high street photo lab, helping customers improve their own images, which taught me a lot about both the technical and practical side of photography. After managing a lab for Lloyds Pharmacies, I opened Photogenix on Commercial Road in Hereford age 24, and I’ve been working in photography full-time ever since.
The lab quickly built a solid reputation for quality and good customer service, and every Monday morning we’d have piles of film from local wedding photographers dropping off their weekend work. Sorting through hundreds of wedding images each week gave me an unexpected but invaluable crash course in what really matters when photographing a wedding.
Not long after opening the lab, a customer realised I had a photography degree and asked if I’d take some photos for them. One job led to another, and before long I found myself drawn into wedding photography. Capturing real moments and genuine interactions felt like a natural fit. The lab soon doubled as a small gallery for my wedding work around Herefordshire, the West Midlands and the wider UK.
By 2006, it made sense to commit fully, so I sold the lab and focused on wedding photography full-time.
Making the move to Wedding Photographer
The development of Wedding Photography
Twenty years ago, wedding photography in Herefordshire was fairly straightforward. You’d shoot three rolls of medium format film - 36 images in total - mostly family groups and a few portraits of the couple. I found that approach a bit limiting, so I started bringing my 35mm camera to capture the unscripted moments in between. Without really planning to, I became one of the first locally to move away from the traditional format and take a more documentary approach, and before long I’d built a reputation as the go-to wedding photographer in Herefordshire.
Wedding photography has changed a lot since then. Digital technology opened the door to a wide range of styles - everything from fashion-led shoots to full documentary coverage. My view is simple: the focus should always be on the genuine story of the day, with family portraits adding structure without taking over. A photographer who understands weddings will get the images you need while still giving you time to enjoy the day with your guests - not turning it into an endless photoshoot.
I learned early on that when the day runs smoothly, the photography naturally follows. Many couples have told me I was “more than just the photographer” - something I take genuine pride in. Often it’s the small details that make the biggest difference. For example, memorising the bridal party’s names helps create a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. I also know that the bridal party may be new to their roles, so I keep them informed and involved, which helps everyone feel at ease and confident that everything is under control.
Over the years I’ve helped with all sorts of unexpected moments. I’ve sewn up dresses, repaired a broken nail, chased down missing suits, and yes, once gave a bride my own socks so she could cross a field without ruining her shoes. I’ve driven couples when their wedding car broke down, pinned on buttonholes, kept the schedule on track when ceremonies overran, dealt with small emergencies - and on one occasion, ended up trapped in a church as floodwater rose outside. Whatever the situation, my aim is always the same: to help the day run as smoothly as possible.
It's all in the detail
Support throughout your Wedding Day
I’ve been photographing weddings across Herefordshire, the West Midlands and the wider UK for more than 20 years, and that experience means everything runs smoothly and without fuss. My approach is to work quickly and unobtrusively, adapting to the light, the location and whatever the day brings. And there’s always a plan B - and usually a plan C - ready if needed.
When it’s time for some photos of just the two of you, I keep things relaxed and straightforward. I know not everyone feels comfortable in front of a camera, so I offer gentle guidance where it helps while making sure the moment still feels natural.
Above all, I’m there to support you throughout your day. I aim to be a calm, steady presence so you can relax and enjoy the moments that matter.
I’ve photographed ceremonies at over 200 wedding venues across Herefordshire, the West Midlands and beyond - even as far as New Zealand. That level of experience means I understand how to work with different spaces, timelines and conditions, so you can feel confident your photography is in capable hands.
When I think back to those first eight photos I ever took, I can still remember the place, the light and how it all felt. That’s the strength of photography. It allows you to return to a moment and see it clearly again.
My aim is to create a straightforward, honest record of your wedding day - something meaningful that you’ll want to revisit and share for years to come.
If you’re looking for an experienced wedding photographer in the West Midlands, feel free to get in touch.
Hire an experienced Photographer in the West Midlands
I’m based in Herefordshire in the West Midlands with my family, but I also have a small retreat near Tywyn in mid-Wales. It’s a quiet spot that’s perfect for switching off and enjoying the views and walking routes. If you’re looking for a short break, the place is available to rent - and you can even combine your stay with a location portrait session if you’d like. You can find the details here for Chalet 18!
