Expert Advice from Wedding Photographer Laura May

We caught up with wedding photography Laura May to get you the very best advice on choosing your photographer, when to book them, and how to get ready for your big confetti moment.

Grace and Ben - Goldstone Hall

Do you have a unique style as a photographer?

My approach to wedding photography is relaxed and that's why most couples book me. They're looking for candid photography and gently directed couples portraits. What many people don't realise (and what I tell all my clients) is that the secret to a relaxed day (and photographs) is to make sure you give yourself plenty of time for everything. Timing is absolutely key.

Jo and Chris - Goldstone Hall

When choosing a photographer, what advice would you give to couples?

There are four important questions to chat through with your fiance before starting the search: 

1) What's important to you both? Do you want lots of candids, lots of couple portraits, purely documentary, lots of group shots? Every photographer is different in their approach and I guarantee there'll be someone who does exactly what you want! 

2) What is their editing style? The colours in the final photos that I deliver are very true to life. Some photographers have a really light edit, some have quite a dark edit, some quite orange toned — what's your preference? 

3) What is your budget? Pick a budget and stick with it… or totally blow the budget if you find the perfect… 

4) Person! Choose someone you'll be able to get along with for an entire day and who you think you'll be able to communicate openly and honestly with in the run up and on the day of the wedding.

Laura and James - Iscoyd Park

How far in advance should you book a wedding photographer?

I tend to get booked up a year ahead, so it's never too soon to book someone if you find the perfect match! 

Do you have a favourite venue you visit regularly?

I adore Davenport House and have photographed many weddings there. I've also recently photographed weddings at Iscoyd Park. Both are beautiful Shropshire wedding venues with superb teams that I thoroughly enjoy working alongside.

 Annabel and Andy - Iscoyd Park

What is your favourite moment of the day to capture?

Now I'm not just saying this, but I do always love the confetti moment. It's usually immediately after the ceremony, so everyone is in great spirits before the party starts!

Louise and Jack - Davenport House

Now give us your top tips for capturing those perfect confetti shots?

Try to always do the confetti throw immediately after the ceremony and before your guests have the chance to start congratulating you. Because once that begins, it's really hard to interrupt it! The two of you should step to one side and have some just-married time while your photographer organises everyone. Then it's time for the confetti shot and then you can start receiving congratulations from everyone… another moment I love to capture on camera. 

 Annabel and James - Church Wedding

If you want more confetti tips take a look at our blog 5 Top Tips to Capture the Perfect Confetti Moment for inspiration and advice on capturing the perfect moment.

We hope you enjoy wedding planning!

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*List of suppliers in photographs supplied by Laura May

Grace + Ben 

@goldstone_hall_weddings 

@WildMint_floraldesign 

Jo  + Chris 

@goldstone_hall_weddings 

@shropshirecountrybrides  

@maccionibydesign  

Laura + James

@iscoydpark

@vickymhair

@jessicamairstudios

@white_wysteria

Annabel + Andrew

@iscoydpark

@duskyblooms

@bridalhairbymichellejewess

@maxinesmithmakeupartist

Louise + Jack

@davenporthouse 

@gingerlilyflorist

@bridalbyartists / @ellmakeup_ 

Annabel + James

@lucymartinbridal 

@biglittlethingsshop