Why I Chose to Be an Alternative Wedding Photographer in Sheffield
Congratulations! You've found the one and are about to embark on a journey that will have you exchanging "I do's" in front of all your family and friends. With that comes endless decisions to make, from choosing a venue to finalising the guest list. But amongst all the hustle and bustle of wedding planning, there's one decision that can get overlooked – who will capture those precious moments on your big day? As an alternative wedding photographer based in Sheffield, I've seen my fair share of unique weddings and have chosen to stray away from traditional photography styles. Let me tell you why I chose this path and how it could benefit your special day. So sit back with a cuppa (or maybe something stronger) as I spill the behind-the-lens secrets of being an alt-wedding photographer at heart.
I didn't want to be a wedding photographer at first. In fact, I never thought I'd even be in the wedding industry! The traditional style of wedding photography never really spoke to me – the posed shots, stiff smiles and overly filtered images just didn't feel authentic. I enjoyed street photography and capturing candid moments, so when a close friend asked me to photograph their wedding in a more alternative style, I jumped at the chance. It was a game changer for me. I loved the freedom of expression and creativity that came with shooting an alternative wedding. So much so, that I decided to make it my niche.
So what is alternative wedding photography? It's essentially a non-traditional approach to capturing your special day. Instead of following a strict shot list and spending hours posing for photos, alternative wedding photography focuses on natural moments and emotions. This means less forced smiles and more genuine, raw moments captured forever.
I didn't love traditional wedding photography
Traditional wedding photography usually follows a classic approach, documenting the day in a formal and structured manner. It typically includes posed photographs of the bride and groom, the wedding party, and family members, often at various stages such as the ceremony, reception, and sometimes the preparation. The objective is to capture key moments and people in a way that creates a timeless record of the day. This style is characterised by its meticulous attention to detail, careful staging, and polished presentation.
The traditional approach to wedding photography just didn't cut it for me. It felt too predictable, lacking in spontaneity. I craved the unexpected, the raw emotions, the laughter and joy that can't be posed. The essence of the wedding got lost in all the structured and planned shots. I wanted those magical, unscripted moments that truly capture the spirit of the day. That's why I veered off the traditional path and found my own style of wedding photography - one that's authentic, storytelling, and a little bit alternative.
What makes alternative wedding photography different?
Alternative wedding photography is all about capturing the essence of your special day in a unique and creative way. It's not about following a strict shot list or adhering to traditional poses, but rather it focuses on capturing genuine, candid moments that truly reflect the emotions and personalities of the couple.
Instead of spending hours posing for photos, alternative wedding photography encourages couples to be themselves and enjoy the moment. It's about capturing the little details, the beautiful imperfections, and the spontaneous interactions between loved ones. I still take portraits and group photos, but I do so in a way that feels natural, informal, unforced and fun.
Why is alternative wedding photography perfect for Sheffield?
In Sheffield, you'll find a diverse range of venues, from industrial warehouses to lush parks and gardens, providing endless opportunities to capture unique and creative shots. The city's stunning landscapes, Victorian industrial backdrops, and colourful street art provide the perfect canvas for alternative wedding photography. It allows couples to have a wedding that truly reflects their individuality and the city's vibrant character.
Moreover, Sheffield is known for its friendly and laid-back atmosphere, making it the ideal setting for capturing natural, intimate moments between loved ones. As an alternative wedding photographer in Sheffield, I strive to capture the true spirit of this wonderful city and its people through my photography.
Alternative Wedding Photography in Action
Not convinced? How about a few examples of alternative wedding photography in action? From intimate elopements on mountaintops to wild and colourful festivals, there are endless possibilities for capturing your unique love story. And don't worry, it's not just about the bride and groom - alternative wedding photography also focuses on including all of your loved ones and creating a sense of community in the photos. How about a shot of the bride's reflection in a mirror as she gets ready? It captures the excitement and anticipation in her eyes. Or maybe the candid laughter and joy during a fun celebrant ceremony, or the fun moments when you have time to yourselves later in the day. These unconventional shots perfectly capture the essence of your wedding, reflecting the love and happiness shared on your special day.
How can couples incorporate alternative wedding photography into their special day?
The beauty of alternative wedding photography is that it effortlessly blends with any style or theme. Whether you're having a bohemian outdoor ceremony, a quirky urban celebration, or a traditional church wedding, my approach of candid, natural, and creative photography works like a charm.
Here are some nifty ways couples can incorporate alternative wedding photography into their special day:
Embrace the surroundings: As I mentioned before, Sheffield has a bunch of cool spots for weddings. You can totally take advantage of that and pick a venue that screams your style and personality. It'll give your photos a unique backdrop and make them stand out from the usual wedding shots. Check out some of Sheffield's unique venues here, and if you're set on the industrial vibe, I have a whole post dedicated to Kelham Island and Neepsend, Sheffield's former industrial heart.
Have a blast and be yourselves: Alternative wedding photography is all about capturing those real emotions and candid moments. So, let loose, have a blast, and be your awesome selves on your special day. That's how we'll get those authentic and personal photos that truly reflect your love for each other.
Let's break free from traditional 'poses': Rather than stiff, posed shots, alternative wedding photography captures natural, unscripted moments, so you don’t need a shot list. I love incorporating this approach into your photos by getting to know you and encouraging genuine actions during portraits. Think walking hand in hand, dancing together, or sharing a good laugh. It's all about capturing those authentic, in-the-moment memories that truly reflect your unique love story.
Ignore the camera and live in the moment: This is probably my favourite tip for couples and their friends and family. During your wedding, you'll have so much going on that it may feel like a whirlwind of emotions. It's easy to get caught up in all the planning and stress, but try to take some time with your partner and ignore the camera. Really soak in those precious moments together, forget about the camera, and just be present in each other's company. Trust me, those will be some of your favourite memories (and photographs) from your special day.
In a nutshell, alternative wedding photography is an awesome way to capture the unique essence of your special day. It's not just about documenting the event, but freezing those genuine, unfiltered emotions and spontaneous moments that make your love story one-of-a-kind. By being yourselves and letting the day unfold naturally, you have the chance to create a heartfelt and captivating photo narrative that you'll treasure forever. So, let's throw out the rulebook and celebrate your love in an authentic and personalised way.
