Photographing a Wedding at Corfe Castle
Last year I had the pleasure of photographing a wedding at an iconic Dorset Landmark, and according to the National Trust it was actually the first wedding they had (in modern times I suppose) as a new wedding venue. Yes, Corfe Castle are now doing weddings! Who wouldn’t love to get married in a Castle in the heart of Dorset?
With the Groom looking suave in his traditional navy suit, and joined by his best friends, the grooms party headed up to the castle to await all the guests. Meanwhile, I darted back and forth to see Emily the bride with her bridesmaids, as well as the fantastic hair and makeup team on the day. When Emily was ready, we all headed up to the castle where the guests awaited us with a stunning view.
Emily and her sister as a bridesmaid, walking up to the ceremony amongst the rolling hills of Dorset and the famous Corfe Castle backdrop (and a little bit of wind I might add!)
Photographing the smiles on everyone’s faces as Emily walked down the aisle in Corfe Castle was magical, as any castle wedding should be! I loved the free nature of the ceremony, there was even no aisle music!
The money shot, the photo that will be framed by the fireplace, or maybe even on a fridge magnet! Grabbing the first kiss for Emily and Max, and framing them with Corfe Castle in the background was certainly important, and I think we nailed it here!
Do you find yourself thinking that if you hired a wedding photographer at your wedding, that you won’t know how to pose in front of camera, and that you’re nervous for your portrait session? Honestly, it’s so much more common than you think, and you’re not alone.
The more relaxed, documentary approach that I take is very non-intrusive, and I work with my couples to make them feel very relaxed and with a bit of guidance, help you feel a million dollars. Emily and Max were a bit apprehensive for photos at first, but look at how beautiful they look!
After the drinks reception in the grounds of Corfe Castle, we headed over the road to The Bankes Arms hotel for the wedding breakfast and speeches. An authentic little hotel in the heart of Corfe with beautiful interior, it was the perfect place to host.
After some rather emotional speeches and learning all the lovely details of Emily and Max’s family (always so wholesome!), it was time to cut the cake, but it had to have the navy twist to it.
I must say, Emily and Max’s cake cut might be one of my favourite cake cuttings I’ve photographed! Love the sword!
Ending the day with a boogie to Jack Johnson, for me, a perfect first dance song choice!
Emily and Max were the epitome of the type of relaxed wedding couple that are just so fun to photograph. Such lovely people, surrounded by amazing family and friends with a relaxed atmosphere, which fits exactly into my style of photographing a wedding. I love to blend into the background and chat with your guests, always meanwhile capturing beautiful moments for you to cherish!
Are you thinking of getting married in a castle like Emily and Max did? I’d love to hear about it!
Emily and max on 35mm film
