“Have you photographed a wedding at our venue before?”

This is a question that I expect most photographers get asked regularly. Personally, I absolutely love it when I receive an enquiry for a wedding at a venue I’ve not been to before!

I think the reason that couples ask this question comes down to a few concerns: they want to know if I’ll know ‘the best spots’ for photos; they want to know if I’ll be able to handle the different lighting situations that the venue might present; and really, they just want to make sure that everything will run smoothly on the day. What they’re actually wondering is, do I have the skills and experience to adapt to a new venue.

In short, yes, I believe I do! I’ve been a photographer for many years, and I think I’ve probably come across almost every lighting situation you can think of, and of course, some are more tricky than others! When it comes to weddings, yes it’s nice if I already know a few spots around the venue that work well, but it’s also great if I don’t know the place well – it means that I can look at your venue with a fresh perspective, finding ways to be more creative and spontaneous, rather than relying on ‘safe’ shots. I think that this actually leads to images that feel more personal, and more intentional.

That said, I always prepare. I’ll research your venue online, and I’ll have a look at what other photographers have done in the past. I usually arrive a little early to have a look at the layout, and to asses the lighting conditions. This includes figuring out some back-up indoor areas in case there is torrential rain! Understanding light is far more important than having been to a venue before. I need to know what to do if the sun is harsh at midday; if it’s very dark indoors; and what to do with the crazy DJ lights on the dancefloor!

If you like a photographer’s work, and their approach to photographing weddings, that’s what really matters. A good photographer should be able to adapt, and to bring their skills and creativity to any venue.

We have to remember that weddings aren’t styled shoots. A lot of the images you might have in your Pinterest board are probably taken from beautiful, carefully organised styled shoots. But real weddings are fast-moving, emotional and unpredictable, no matter how much you plan! After all, the venue is just the backdrop – what really matters where photographs are concerned, is the connections – the people who were there with you, and all the little moments that unfolded throughout the day.

Mind you, a beautiful venue is always a bonus 😉