How to plan your Wedding part one - a spotlight on photography
As it’s the most special day of your life, planning a wedding deserves all the time you can give it. But while the process may seem daunting at first, take comfort in the fact it’s all the little details coming together that truly bring your vision to reality.
In our How to Plan a Wedding journal series we’re shining a light on these ‘little things'. That means chatting with the incredible suppliers, creatives and small businesses that work so hard to make each wedding shine.
Perhaps one of the most nerve wracking prospects of the big day is having those forever memories captured by a photographer. So you can ease into the idea, we grabbed a chat with Lincolnshire wedding photographer Kev Elkins to find out what inspires his stunning work and what makes the perfect wedding photograph. We worked with Kev last year at a gorgeous Aswarby Rectory Wedding and we love his style.
A lifelong passion for documenting memories
When you’re searching for a wedding photographer, it’s important to find someone who has a deep appreciation for the art form. This is something Kev can relate to as he developed his photography passion in childhood.
My dad had a makeshift darkroom at the back of our garage and I was always interested in the process. When I got older I got into skateboarding and started to notice the photography styling in skating publications such as Thrasher Magazine and Sidewalk Magazine. When I had children I bought a DSLR and photography became more about documenting our lives.
After building up a portfolio of family life, Kev began working with local models. He shared his portraiture work on Facebook where friends of his wife (who were due to be married) saw something special. Kev hasn’t looked back since.
The secret to perfect wedding photographs
For many of us, the first time we have professional photos taken is on our wedding day. This is why Kev likes to offer free engagement sessions to help couples feel comfortable and confident.
On the day, Kev works from the perspective of a guest so he can split focus between all the highlights of the wedding - from the first cheeky boogie to those always-emotional speeches.
“What makes the perfect photograph in my mind is something that’s not contrived or forced in any way - an image that captures the moment there and then. It doesn’t have to be technically perfect or adhere to any rules of photography. As long as it makes you feel something, it’s the perfect photograph.”
What about those of us who have a case of camera shyness? Kev recommends coming along on an engagement session to break the ice, but his main tip is to simply be yourself. He says: “Just act natural. If you’re normally a goofy couple who laugh and joke around - do that!”
A unique perspective for your special day
Kev has lots of exciting plans for the future (including teaching others how to take the perfect wedding photograph). But it’s his passion for capturing special moments and love of the wedding industry that make him a joy to work with.
“The wedding industry is filled with amazing suppliers and I love meeting new couples. There are lots of wedding photographers out there and they’re all great in their own way. I’m different from the rest as my journey to this point in my life has been different from everyone else’s!”
Inspired to book your wedding photographer? You can take a look below at the Wedding we worked together on last year or browse Kev’s portfolio here and don’t forget to give him a follow on Instagram.
