Lauren Mitchell Photography – Photography in Hampshire

The day started with a little rain but this didn’t dampen the spirits of the bride who was with her bridesmaids busily getting ready at one of my favourite venues – Cain Manor. The bridal suite in Cain Manor is such a large room which is perfect for taking all types of shots, which was lucky as all the individual shots had to be done inside! Caroline didn’t seem nervous at all during the preparations, as she chatted and laughed with her family.

The ceremony was very meaningful and full of happiness. Even Caroline’s mother had written a poem for the special day. Everything went to plan, and by the end of the ceremony the clouds had blown over the the sun was starting to shine. Time was a little tight so we started the group shots just after everyone had walked out into the sun. The wedding party were all in high spirits and the groups shots were all done in under 15 minutes – Teresa and I then took Caroline and Lee around Cain Manor for their couple shots.

The weather was still on our side so we were able to capture some great couple shots and Caroline and Lee enjoyed it too, even Lee who hates having his photograph taken!! We always try and make it as fun as possible

We left the couple ready to begin their Wedding Breakfast with their guests. Caroline and Lee – have a fantastic honeymoon! We enjoyed the day as much as you, all the best for the future.

Lauren and Teresa x

The wedding of Vicky and Adrian was held in the small village of Old Alresford. The couple had flown all the way from Australia to get married in front of friends and family. The morning started cloudy and damp but that didn’t damped the spirits of the bride and bridesmaids as they all busily got ready for the ceremony at 2pm. After photographing the preparations and the individual portrait shots of the bridesmaids and bride Teresa and I headed to the church to meet Adrian and the guests.

The church was situated on a hill overlooking the rest of the valley where we could see some very dark clouds coming our way – not something any wedding photographer likes to see! While I waiting for the bride to arrive, Teresa was inside the church photographing the nervous groom and guests. The bride arrived a little late in a beautifully decorated camper van. The ceremony was thoughtful, fun of laughter and in places emotional, but enjoyed but all.

Teresa and I arrived at Heather’s mum house in the morning where we were greeted by a big smile from her mum. Heathers hair appointment was running late so we started photographing the gorgeous dress, shoes and all the accessories. The weather was clearing after a night of rain so we used the bright weather to capture some great shots of the shoes and flowers outside. Heather finally arrived with her bridesmaids, and they all had to change into their dresses promptly ready for their individual photographs.

The church was filled to the brim as over 100 guests were attending, which created a lively and fun atmosphere. The ceremony was thoughtful and emotional. The priest (who was a biker!) allowed us to take shots from any location in the church which was fantastic. After the ceremony we were able to use the church surroundings for some shots of the couple – I loved using the textured brickwork of the church, the natural lighting available and low camera angles to create some really dramatic and romantic shots of the couple.

All the guests made their way to the Oaklands Hotel for the reception. Heather and David arrived in a open top car to be greeted by guests waiting for them outside. They gathered with their guests for half an hour or so while we photographed all the table decorations and favours, made by Heather herself! The ushers were a great help, ushering everyone outside for the group shots – and although Heather had given me quite a list of shots to photograph, we were able to get through them very quickly.

We left the happy couple to enjoy the evening with their family and friends.

It was a great day guys – congratulations to you both!

Lauren and Teresa x

The John Lewis Partnership have launched a new wedding website which is packed full of great information and ideas to help any couple planning a wedding. Their reporter asked LMP if we would like to share 5 top tips for great wedding photos…..so here they are!

1. Test your make-up.
Always have a trial run before your big day – regardless of whether you’ve organised a professional make-up artist, or decided to do it yourself.
One great tip is to apply a little extra eye make-up than normal. Eyes are a key focal point that people look at in a photograph and adding just an extra touch will really help your eyes stand out when captured on camera – rather than getting lost within the picture.

2. Don’t rush…
Ensure you give yourself plenty of time to get ready on your big day. In my experience, it’s surprisingly how many brides end up in a mad rush to change into their dress, apply last minute make-up and put on accessories. The time just before the ceremony is the ideal opportunity to catch you when you’re at your best. Your make up will be perfect, your dress pristine, and you can gather with your bridesmaids for shots your photographer won’t want to miss.

3. Talk to your venue.
Wherever you’ve chosen to get married, from a church to a listed building, try and find out the details of when your photographer will be able to take photographs. Some venue and priests can be very strict. And some may not allow photography during the whole service. It’s best to let your photographer know early on about any limitations, to avoid any possible embarrassment during your day.

4. Planning a receiving line?
If you’ve got your mind set on a receiving line, don’t forget to let your photographer know when you discuss timings. Receiving lines can take up a huge amount of time, which will shorten the moments you’ll have left for other photographs. By making your photographer aware, they’ll be flexible with their timings and be able take all the photographs you want.

5. Have fun!
When choosing your photographer, don’t just look at their portfolio – think about their personality. Do you share the same sense of humour? Are you happy for them to follow you around all day? Because, apart from each other, you’ll be spending most your time with them! Recommendations are ideal, as your friends will tell you exactly what they thought. I’ve always found the best photographs come when we’re all laughing and having a good time.

If you wish to find out more about what Greenbee – Weddings can offer please follow this link http://weddings.greenbee.com/