Pre Wedding Photography shoot at The Spa Hotel Wedding Venue Tunbridge Wells - Natalie and Darren

Good Morning Folks, Yes it's me again and as promised I am bringing you the pre-wedding photography shoot of the very lovely Natalie and Darren. We had a great time wandering around the grounds of The Spa Hotel in Tunbridge Wells. I love this venue, it really is a smashing place to have your wedding whatever the time of year. I first met Natalie and Darren at the Spa's wedding fayre and we were giggling away so I was over the moon when they chose me as their photographer for their big day. I think finding the people who are going to make your day come alive is so difficult; not just for the mahoosive amounts that seem to have come into the industry over the last few years, but to find the right personalities that will make your day super special is daunting. Whenever I get chosen I always feel chuffed to bits and honoured to be a part of a truly special day. I like to get to know my lovely couples before their wedding and communication is the key. Natalie, Darren and I have been communicating a fair bit so when I met them for their shoot it was like I had known them forever, It is very scary to be placed in front of the camera so being familiar and comfortable really helps. The pre-wedding shoot is something I really advocate; not only does it help to banish those photography nerves but walking around the venue and visualising it for the wedding day really helps to make the day real and exciting, and you never know what plans will be made whilst we wander, chat and laugh :) As you can see the day was gorgeous, and I do love natural looking shots and still always observing the light and making the most of it; check out the shades gang, tres chic! You cant beat a good old kiss, and on any wedding day there will be loads of kissing so what better way to start that at the pre wedding shoot ;) We had plans for Darren but alas it won't happen because of the set up on the day, so there will be new plans afoot but crikey our Darren looks fab in front of a door. Another good thing about the shoot is to work out how people are in front of the camera, gorgeous Natalie is a smiler and wow she looks amazing. Needless to day I cannot wait to be a part of your day and yup as usual there will be tears; there always is! Claire :)

West Sussex Wedding Photography at Worth Abbey Worth - Red and Théo

Good Morning Folks, Hoorah a wedding photography post from a beautiful wedding at Worth Abbey, Worth, West Sussex featuring today's gorgeous couple Red and Théo. The rain was relentless on their day but Red saw this a nature giving her day rain to wash away the old ready for their new lives together, and these wise words came from her mother in law. I love that everything in life has a positive and did it hamper the fun, oh no; we may have slipped and slided (not a proper work but the only descriptive that seemed to fit) a bit and I think I commando rolled (unintentionally) over a hay bale, followed by my able assistant but we did it with aplomb :D The day started at Red's parents' house and there was excitement abound during the preparations; we then made our way to Worth Abbey, which is just breathtaking, to photograph the boys. I knew the service was going to be something special as Red's bother was in charge of the choir that had travelled all the way from Oxford to sing, and wow when the music started shivers went down my spine and I found it really emotional. For me it was like hearing the Kings College choir and I had to pinch myself to make sure I was there, what an honour. Writing this brings it all back and makes me quite teary! We then headed back to the house to enjoy the reception. I think the rain did impact on one part of the day and that was the garden that Rachel, Red's mother had been perfecting for months ahead of the big day. All was not lost though as I was able to pop over to photograph it before the marquees were erected. When I was editing the images I could not believe that it rained as much as it did because the day was full of love, happiness, joy, positivity and the determination to enjoy every last bit. So let's have a chat about today's images; I love this mother and daughter moment, I think once the dressing starts it all becomes real and that mix of nerves and excitement really kicks in. A little glance to each other of reassurance is always just lovely to capture during the service, and this service was just magical. For me this shot makes me a little teary yet again. Rachel giving Red communion wine to her daughter for her very first holy communion as a married woman; wow to witness and capture this makes my job such a joy. Oh yes, it rained, then rained and rained some more and yes we managed to get outside. As I am a positive type of 'gal' just look at the richness in the depth and colour. Today is my bits and bobs day; we all have those little jobs that build up so today is the day to get them all done. Oh and an update on the new washing machine, love it; it's quiet and steams stuff, oh happy days! I won't make any promises on what is coming up next because I keep changing my mind!!! Have a great week folks, Claire :)

Haxted Mill Edenbridge Kent Wedding photography with Lisa and Tim

Good Evening Folks, Welcome to the wedding photography of Lisa and Tim who were married at our very own St Swithun's Church East Grinstead, West Sussex and then to the absolutely gorgeous Haxted Mill, Edenbridge, Kent afterwards for their reception. The wedding day started at Lisa's family home where I captured some moments before Lisa and her Father left. We then zipped off to the Church to capture Tim and the boys ahead of Lisa's arrival. This was one of those days where the weather wasn't prepared to let us know exactly what it was going to do. We were happy because the light was good and the rain that seemed to be just in the horizon never really materialised and it was warm so what more could a girl want; well a Ferrari, swimming pool, cleaner, ironer wouldn't go amiss but that's just being greedy!! Just before Lisa walked in with her Father, a few nerves kicked in so we all did lovely relaxing breathing exercises to make sure Lisa was 'aisle fit' and then before we knew it Lisa was walking down to marry the love of her life. I loved capturing their wedding service and being able to do this without being seen is something that I love. I don't think that wedding vows should feature the wedding photographer in close proximity to the bride and groom or 'gurning' over the vicar's shoulder. When you have such a magnificent space as this it is a crime not to make full use of these beautiful surroundings. We had great fun outside the church, there were a few spits and spots of rain but nothing major; I really wasn't sure if the downpour was going to materialise so we did some insurance portraiture at the church, just in case. Haxted was just sublime with so many little nooks and crannies it was a difficult choice, but a choice was made and fun was had. I have chosen 5 images for today. How cute is this, a little documentary moment captured during the signing of the registers; it was quite a confined space but I am so pleased I managed to capture it. I do love the walking down the aisle shot, this one was great because it was a purely documentary moment and the only light that you see is emanating from a flash of the guest; with the settings I have on my camera I have managed to also keep the beautiful ambience of the church lighting and that's where training comes in folks! Lisa wanted a shot of the boys holding her up, but she wasn’t banking on naughty me developing the shot and I think the surprise on her face is evident here; naughty Claire but I won't change ;) Love this of Lisa having a moment under the weeping willow at Haxted, just love it. This one is so sweet as Lisa and Tim steal a little kiss as their guests enjoy a drink and a chat. I love all the couples that I photograph and I am so privileged to be a part of their day. I am also lucky that they trust me completely to capture the day as they would want it too, so thank you all my lovely brides and grooms you are wonderful. As for this year's couples, he, he what have I in store for you? Have a wonderful week and be sure to check back on Monday for surprise one of 2014. Claire :)

Spa Hotel Tunbridge Wells Kent Wedding Photography - Andrea and Philip

Good Morning Folks,

It has been a while since my last proper blog; things have been trés busy chez Woodland Hill and I have been busily making plans for the New Year. So welcome to the Spa Hotel Wedding Photography of Andrea and Philip and what an incredibly classy day this was.

Andrea and Philip first saw my stand at the Spa Hotel Wedding Fayre last year. I was on my way to an awards ceremony so did not get to meet them immediately but when I did we had so much fun I just knew we were going to have a brilliant day.

The big day started at The Royal Wells Hotel in Tunbridge Wells to capture Andrea's bridal preparations then we headed off to The Spa Hotel to meet Philip and capture the boys ahead of Andrea's arrival. I loved the fact that they giggled throughout their wedding ceremony and their giggling was so infectious that we were all at it!!! It was so lovely to see them so happy and relaxed in each other's company that the ceremony just flew by.

Great fun was had during the group shots with the King and Queen aka Philip's parents; I know that Andrea's mother will never look at her handbag in the same way again ;) Then it was off to create some drama and oh wow drama is what we created, love it!

I loved the fact that Andrea and Philip decided on a different layout in their reception room. They had a table with just the two of them sumptuously decorated with beautiful flowers. On the table were the most exquisite chocolates it was just wonderful. They had chosen a Janeymac cake that did not fail to take my breath away. After some evening photography the dancing began and what a perfect end to a perfect day.

So for today's images. This image was taken by the lake as we were walking back from the little bridge. Now this image I love because it oozes love but I know that Philip was being a minx before and after this shot. Andrea's daughter was singing for their first dance (it was sublime she has an angelic voice) she held it together quite well but just burst out laughing. He was so funny that we all fell about laughing too; love it!! This shot is a sneaky kiss as the guests were making their way into the hotel before the wedding breakfast, although surrounded by people it was such a private moment. Oooh look at this for a bit of drama; Andrea I will love you forever ;) I love this shot of Philip as we had a quiet 10 minutes taking a few shots in their wedding suite.

So are you all ready for Christmas? I sort of am; this month has been resisting the urge to buy Quality Street as this is a part of Christmas for me that harks back to my childhood. I wasn't going to then I just couldn't allow it to happen so the tub has been well and truly bought and the festive atmosphere is well and truly here!! We had a disaster this week; my Husband thought it would be a good idea to leave the freezer door open; I have reminded him at lot, and I mean a lot that it was not. Well when these opportunities arise one has to make the most of them doesn't one ;)

Claire :)

Lovely words from brides who voted in the 2014 Wedding Industry Awards

So I got to the regional finals and that's where my journey ended but wow I have been bowled over by the wonderful things that have been said about me from my brilliant Brides and Grooms. There are quite a few so over the next few weeks I am going to post them here as I want each and every comment to be cherished. Thank you so, so much and with words like this I don't care I didn't win, your comments mean the world to me :)

Weddings at West Heath School Wedding Venue Sevenoaks Kent - Rachael and Patrick Part One

Good Morning Folks,

We have a two part Kent wedding photography story this week. Part one see us at West Heath School, Sevenoaks, Kent and this beautiful wedding venue was once the school of Princess Diana. It is still a school today but is run as a charity for the diverse needs of so many children who face many challenges.

It has been wonderful getting to know Rachael and Patrick over the last couple of years and their wedding day was enormous fun. The day started at a gorgeous bespoke bed and breakfast in Farninham called Tabsfield and wow what a place to have the bridal preparations. The owners were just a joy and it was like a boutique hotel, just lovely.

We then popped off to meet the boys at West Heath and to inform Patrick that the girls were running a little late. I always feel sorry for the poor grooms and all that angst. He visibly relaxed when he knew his gorgeous girl was on her way :) The service was lovely and it was laughter all the way, which I love. There was one thing that made us giggle during and afterwards; all I can say is poor Patrick and dress hankies are useless for anything practical! Afterwards the champagne, fun at chat flowed then their guests departed for part two and we spent some time wandering, laughing and photographing….perfect.

So for today's images. The staircase at West Heath was sublime; I love this image as Rachel's Dad spends a precious few moments with his daughter for the last time as a single woman. The light and mood in this image helps to create the story here. I do love details in my photography, they bring the whole story together and this shot was taken just after the rings were put on, the gentle way they are holding hands shows how they are supporting each other during their vows and as an essence in the background eager little eyes taking in every moment. Hoorah we have done it, phew that's the narrative of this image and I think I see a hint of "where's the champagne?" I love this little hidden nook at West Heath; the image is almost in silhouette and my aim was to create a fairy like appeal; the backlight really helps to achieve this.

So folks check back for part two of Rachel and Patrick's story that will take place at Swallows Oast. I have the second of two very busy weekends coming up, so off I go and have a great weekend folks but I will leave you with this…brrrrrrrr!!!!!

Claire :)
http://www.woodlandhillphotography.co.uk

Wedding Photography at Hayne Barn House Hythe Kent - Pru and Simon

  Good Afternoon Folks, Welcome to the wedding photography at Hayne Barn House, Hythe, Kent of Pru and Simon and if you have been reading my pre-wedding photography shoot blogs you will know this is a very special wedding indeed. In contrast to the rather grey and cold day in March, this day was gloriously sunny and when I arrived the guests were already enjoying a drinkie or two with convivial chat. The whole wedding took place at Hayne Barn House and Simon was able to get the know the venue prior to the wedding so that his surroundings were more familiar. As you know from my previous blog Simon had a terrible car accident, which among other things has left him totally blind. Does this get Simon down, nooooo, he met his beautiful bride Pru at the blind college he attended and it was love at first touch and sight :) Pru and Simon are a truly lovely couple and I always come away from my visits with a light heart and aching muscles from laughing so much, and beware that Simon is a minx, but we love it; don't ever change :) So here are today's images and the descriptives are for Simon so he can match them with my dialogue on the day. Simon you should remember this very well; there was chat as to how you were going to walk up the aisle together and you didn't want to do the shoulder guidance but walk hand in hand. In the end the decision was made for the shoulder hold, well this had to be the funniest walk up the aisle I have ever seen. 'Foxy' managed to tread on the dress, the train and the veil and this picture is just after you trod on the veil and Pru's head was yanked back. Pru has the most brilliant laugh, you are grinning like a Cheshire cat and then Pru says "Foxy your feet are too big" in the background you can see your guests laughing. Pru then says "well it wouldn't be us if something like this didn't happen"...fabulous! This image is black and white and suits the mood perfectly. The next image is of Pru under the shade of the trees adjacent to the marquee, she is standing up and holding her bridal bouquet of cream roses and lilies; at the centre of each rose is a little purple crystal that brings together the colours of your wedding. This image was taken before the wedding, so that would be before you trod on the train, dress and veil Simon...and this is my cue to duck ;) The image has been presented in a muted colour tone that echoes back to another time. So we now move on to you Simon, this image was taken by the door to the house, if you walked through the door you would be in the hall. You are doing a fantastic pose with great leg and arm positioning and I have to say that you were one the easiest Grooms for posing and as for that Liam; well least said soonest mended eh Simon! Umber is with you and you are facing towards the gardens where you could probably hear all your lovely guests having a chat in the sun. The image is in black and white for extra fabulousness; not sure that's a proper word but I like it. After your meal we went for a stroll in the grounds to bask in the warm glow of the evening sun, the house is to your right and behind you is the tree lined path that we wandered along earlier in the day. There is a beautiful tree behind you, a maple of sorts I think, with leaves of the deepest, glossiest and richest burgundy. This light here really echoes how relaxed and happy you both felt at this time, and you were able to have a quiet chat and a sneaky kiss too. Well this makes me giggle, it is a collage of four images and features Fraya your little bridesmaid. This was taken in the formal garden behind the yew trees that are placed either side of the crazy paved path with the curvy steps. I like it because the gardens are long and thin with a white picket fence surrounding them, straight down the middle is a thin path and we had a wander along there at the pre-wedding shoot. Fraya is on her way down the path with the purple pom, poms that you gave her, in the next image she has 'clocked' me photographing her. I then tell her to put her pom poms in front of her face and quickly pull them apart and smile. She did it beautifully and looked so adorably cute. These images have a different sort of muted colour tone applied and I like it because it gives more of a feel for the story being told, it evokes more of an emotion for some reason. I had loads of fun on your day, you are a wonderful couple and a pleasure to photograph buts let's finish off with a bit of humour. I was doing a shoulder walk with Simon to the sunny spot in the evening, well there was only so much Pru's dress and neck could take; Simon says "what's that on your shoulder Claire, it feels like rubber" "Oh does it it Simon" peals of laughter ensue "Well it's my camera strap" says Claire "Are you sure" says Simon "Well me dressed in rubber and it would probably be the one time you would be thankful you couldn't see" says Claire...peals and and peals of laughter! Have a great weekend folks, Claire http://www.woodlandhillphotography.co.uk

Wedding Photgraphers Brighton East Sussex Thistle Hotel - Karen and Callan

Good Afternoon Folks, Welcome to the seaside wedding photography in Brighton East Sussex of Karen and Callan; the day was a scorcher and yes we are talking Brighton East Sussex in the UK and no I wasn't dreaming! Karen had the most amazing suite and it had gorgeous views overlooking the sea with a balcony and hot tub, it really was a tranquil and spacious place to enjoy getting ready before the wedding. I went downstairs to find the boys just arriving and we popped outside to get a few shots. After the wedding Karen and Callan had a stroll along the beach and I am sure they felt like celebrities as everyone was wishing them well. So for today's images; the first was taken in the suite and I love it because Karen looks so calm, she was so chilled all morning and only had very few nerves as she was being dressed and I think you can tell how chilled she looked from this shot and she looked absolutely radiant. Here is Callam looking splendid in his kilt and a fact for today, the sporen was inititally used as protection and I am sure you don't need me to explain to protect what, then over the years evolved into the multi use pocket/purse it is today. I do love the walking down the aisle shots, the utter relief and happiness at being married and looking forward to some lovely celebrations with family and friends. There were lots ofsun lovers on the beach that day and I did love capturing some shots with Karen and Callan mingling but this is lovely as they are just having a quiet moment together to chat and catch a sneaky kiss or two. Last but not least that bench, which you may remember seeing from their pre-wedding shoot...I love that bench! I am steadily workng away here trying to catch up with my editing and hoping that at last we can have some sustained sunshime. Catch up soon, Claire :) http://www.woodlandhillphotography.co.uk

Weddings at The Spa Hotel Tunbridge Wells Kent - Andrea and Philip

Good Morning Folks,

Today we are featuring pre wedding photography at The Spa Hotel, Tunbridge Wells, Kent. I do love photographing at this venue as it is situated in my hometown of Tunbridge Wells and it is just beautiful with a contrasting architecture that is fabulous to give many different looks to your wedding photography. Although contrasting the blend is seamless and that is not something that is easy to achieve, but the Spa have so happy days for me!

It was really lovely to meet up and have a chat with Andrea and Philip, they first came across me at The Spa Hotel wedding fayre last year but I was winging my way to an awards ceremony so my assistants had a lovely chat with them. I have spoken to them on the phone on several occasions so it was to good to meet face to face to show that I really do exist.

As you can see from the images the day was very sunny and very hot. I know lots of Brides and Grooms wish for very warm and sunny weather for their wedding day but in reality being too hot is not the best for anyone, especially our lovely grooms who are often wearing wool!!!! Balmy but cooler weather is much nicer and so much more comfortable for everyone, no burned shoulders or melting make-up for the bride or heat exhaustion for the groom.

We had a lovely wander around the grounds and here are today's images, the theme today is spot the ducks :) The first is on the lovely bridge nestled in the many acres that the hotel has to offer, the trees behind add some drama to the image too. Our second image today is walking back towards to hotel jus by the water's edge in what I think is a quintessentially English scene. Oooh those who know me know I love a bit of drama and so does Andrea; happy days and I must say folks she is so easy to photograph but I know you don't believe me Andrea! Last but not least today, Philip looking mighty dapper and again falling into those poses like he has been modelling all his life. So how many ducks did you spot?

I am really looking forward to your big day and I know we are going to have lots of fun.

See you soon you two and for all my lovely readers have a great weekend and pop by next week for more ramblings from me!

Claire :)

http://www.woodlandhillphotography.co.uk

Wedding Photographer for Worth Abbey Balcombe West Sussex- Rachel-Emily and Theo

Good Afternoon Folks,

The light for the pre wedding photography shoot with Rachel-Emily and Theo in Balcombe was sublime; there was a richness to the light that was just beautiful to work with. Rachel-Emily and Theo are having their wedding at Worth Abbey and then their wedding day celebrations will be back at Rachel-Emily's family home in Balcombe. Our pre wedding shoot took place there and it really is just stunning; I couldn't contain my excitement as we wandered around taking photographs and chatting about the big day. I was also pleased on a personal level as I understood some of the French being spoken; happy days or heureux jours ;)

Alors, les photos pour aujourd hui; I do love a rustic scene with lots of long, wild grass growing. It reminds me of all that is typical about Sussex and Kent, which are just beautiful counties to live in. The richness of the evening light really adds some depth to this image and is just wistful as Rachel-Emily and Theo enjoy being together. J'adore cette photo; it is so carefree and reminds me of days where things were so much simpler and lovely. There was little great little ramshackle building that caught my eye as soon as I drove down the drive, the textures both inside and out were wonderful, we popped inside to capture this image. I also took an image of Theo and wow just look at him at the window with the cobwebs, what a fantastic space :) Last but not least let me introduce you to Jacques; he loved coming for a walk and he was easy to find in the long grass; just look for the black tail! He really is lovely and adores Rachel-Emily and Theo as you can see from this image with Rachel-Emily. I think he is going to have a wonderful time on the big day too.

Cherry fest is still with us and has been joined by tomato and runner bean fest...fabulous!

A bientot tout le monde :)

Claire

www.woodlandhillphotography.co.uk

Dorset House Bury West Susssex Wedding Photographers

See the new post featuring Imogen and Guy on the all new Woodland Hill Photography Blog :)

Buxted Park Hotel Uckfield East Sussex Wedding Photography - Terrianne and Dan: East Sussex Wedding Photographersrs

Good Afternoon Folks,

Just before Christmas I photographed the festive wedding of Terrianne and Dan at the gorgeous Buxted Park Hotel, Uckfield, East Sussex.  I was very excited to be photographing a wedding at Buxted Park and I was particularly pleased that the wonderful Marc was on hand; he is so lovely and nothing is too much trouble.

Terrianne stayed in one of Buxted Hotel's wonderful suites and she was very relaxed when I arrived; I then popped down to find Dan and Best Man Dylan who is their little son.  He is such a sweetie and did everything I asked; in fact he was wonderful for the whole day and did not flag at all, despite staying up until 8.00 pm!

The whole day was very relaxed just as Terrianne and Dan wanted and I loved being amongst the festive surroundings of Buxted Park Hotel, as Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year.

Today I am posting five images; the first was taken after their reception meal, light was at a premium this time of year so is does help to be comfortable with photographing in any light and any experienced wedding photographer will not be fazed by this at all.  The second image is always a favourite with me and this was taken at 3.50 pm two days after the shortest day!! Being able to mix the remnants of natural light with introduced light to create a natural shot is something that an experienced photographer will do as second nature at this time of the year.  The third image is a quirkly little number taken in Buxted Park Hotel's cinema and what else does one watch during the festive season but It's a Wonderful Life!!  I just love the image of Dan and Dylan, he was such a cutie. So to the final image, the pond with the magnificence of Buxted Park in the background with two people so in love enjoying their wedding day.

Have a great week folks, I am off to the annual international photographers convention that I affectionately call 'geek week'; I love it and it is a great way to talk all things photography and catch up with friends and colleagues from all over the world...Geek me up baby; love it!!!

Claire :)

To see more of my work pop along to my website Woodland Hill Photography

The Spa Hotel Tunbridge Wells Kent Wedding Photographers - Clare and Chris: Tunbridge Wells Kent Wedding Photography

Good Morning Folks,

As promised I am blogging about Clare and Chris' wedding Photography at The Spa Hotel in Tunbridge Wells Kent recently.

The day started in one of the gorgeous suites at The Spa Hotel in Tunbridge Wells and it was a haven of calm with a mixture of anticipation and excitement.  We had lots of fun capturing this time and then we headed downstairs to capture of images of the boys prior to their interview.  We then headed back upstairs (yup it had to be the stairs for the sake of a bit of exercise) to wait for Deniz to arrive to signal that Clare and her Father should make that final walk together.

The day was just lovely; Logan, Clare and Chris' gorgeous, impeccably behaved son executed his best man duties beautifully.  They must have been so proud and rightly so.

The day was cold, crisp and a bit wet underfoot so the photography took place in the hotel and we popped outside in the evening to capture a shot that we had been planning since I first meeting last year!  The first dance was lovely and after a quick run through behind the scenes it was then to create a sensation on the dance floor; well done gang you were great.

So for today's images I am posting an image taken outside under the lamplight and we all enjoyed the fresh air.  Secondly I just love the first kiss, such a romantic moment mixed with relief and I never tire of seeing it.  Last but not least the man himself, Logan looking proudly up and two very proud parents looking down; love it!

I am really looking forward to photographing more weddings at The Spa Hotel next year and if Deniz is in charge of the day it will all go swimmingly!

Enjoy your weekend folks; so how many of you are Christmas shopping?  I have definitely made a start on mine.

Claire
 If you would lke to see more of my work pop along to my website Woodland Hill Photography