Natural is the word most people use to describe my photography.

I love this, and it always sets me thinking - what does Natural mean? To me it means unforced, relaxed and in the moment. And this comes through in my photographs - whether they be candid or posed I always try to bring the same relaxed, natural energy.

Styles of photography vary and styles of wedding photography vary further still. Documentary, reportage, candid - these are all commonly used terms for my style of photography. Whatever terms we use I’m really glad the overall result is natural looking photographs.

Read on for my thoughts on how to achieve this on your wedding day…

Natural Moments

Trends in photography change, every wedding is unique and everyone has different thoughts on what makes a good photograph. To me they are more than just photographs - they return you to the emotion of the moment, each one a memory of a perfect day. Whether the moment is candid or posed my aim is to capture images that are natural.

So, how do you achieve a natural look in your photos?

Do these six things and you’ll be a good way there…

1. Choose a photographer who you’re comfortable with and brings the same energy as you to your wedding day. This will help put you at ease.

2. Have a pre-wedding shoot with your photographer so you can see the results in advance. This will demystify the whole process and your confidence will sore on the actual day.

3. Do your day your way. Seriously, it’s your day so ignore convention and if you dream of a ceremony on the beach, followed by the mountains - go for it! If you’ve always dreamed of having your ceremony in the same church as your parents - make it happen. These personal choices will help create photographs that tell your story.

4. Stay comfortable - change into comfy shoes for your photos, eat and hydrate regularly (little and often is the key here), keep warm and delegate tasks (well in advance). This will mean you’re not flustered with important decisions on the day.

5. Don’t try to fit too much in. A packed day is bound to run behind schedule at some stage and too much going on will be stressful. A relaxed timeline lets you enjoy the day, make memories and take it all in. It also allows your photographer to be creative with any opportunities that arise. The best photo opportunities are often serendipitous!

6. Wear your heart on your sleeve (and of course your face). Smiles or tears, be proud of your emotions. This will mean when you look back on your wedding photographs in 50 years time you’ll be showing your future selves how amazing it felt.