As a professional wedding photographer based in the picturesque county of Somerset, I have had the immense pleasure of working with such amazing couples during the first half of 2024. Reflecting on these past months, I’ve loved creating stunning and natural visuals, from stunning venues to picturesque marquees. Let me take you through some of my highlights and points of reflection from this first half of 2024.

Highlight Reel

To say that there has been one standout moment to the first half of 2024 with my wedding photography would be wrong, so I will let you have a taste of a variety of highlights from across all the weddings in list form:

• Singing waiters without the groom knowing about. The reaction on his face when the first singing waiter fell over was priceless.

• Breath taking views from a marquee wedding down in Cornwall. On top of that, I really enjoyed photographing my first wedding down in Cornwall, it was magical.

• Stunning sunset over the Avon Gorge for Couple’s photos at Clifton Suspension Bridge.

• My first inclusive wedding was simply special and when the couple wielded a sword to cut the cake, that topped it off.

• Capturing my first couple to go from engagement photoshoot to wedding photography was a big milestone and loved every moment. They also happened to have the most amazing confetti at their wedding.

• Lastly, absolutely nailing an amazing reel (yes I can actually do video from time to time) during an engagement shoot using a drone circling a single tree. Watch it HERE if you haven’t seen it!

Capturing Stunning Venues and Breathtaking Settings

One of the standout aspects of working as a wedding photographer is being able to capture the beauty of each wedding venue. From the rustic charm of countryside barns to the grandeur of historic manor houses, the venues photographed this year have provided stunning backdrops for wedding photography. Each location not only complements the couple's unique style but also enhances the overall aesthetic, making every photo a piece of art. Throw in marquees into the mix and it completes the set. Either placed perfectly in a field, or close to home, each marquee wedding I have captured has been equally as amazing to capture.

Attention to Detail

When it comes to photographing weddings I try to leave no stone unturned when it comes to the details. Every element, from floral arrangements to table settings, is captured with precision and care. As a photographer, this attention to detail is a dream come true. It allows me to document the beauty of the day in its entirety, from the intimate moments to the grand gestures. The cohesive and elegant designs I try to bring to life ensure that every photograph tells a part of the couple's story, harmoniously and beautifully. Adding to this, being able to capture the candid moments makes every album delivered to my couples very personable. From kids playing football, to adults playing Jenga, I try to capture all these moments that I believe makes my photos stand out.

Seamless Coordination

Another massive part to what I deliver to my couples is coordination. Weddings are complex events with many moving parts, and the ability to seamlessly orchestrate through a pre-wedding videocall and through the sending of a questionnaire is an art in itself. The professionalism and efficiency means that I can focus entirely on capturing the special moments, knowing that the schedule is in capable hands. This seamless coordination has been particularly evident in the first half of 2024, where every wedding has flowed effortlessly, creating a relaxed and joyous atmosphere for everyone involved. It also means that if something does overrun, that there is no stress on the couples, when I know they’ve created some buffer time between events. As I progress to get busier into 2025 and 2026, I might have to review how I handle my consultations. I can already feel the pressure of having all my evenings spent having phone calls with couples and therefore not allowing any free time to relax and unwind with my wife and family.

Celebrating Love and Diversity

I pride myself in celebrating love in all its forms. This inclusivity has brought a rich diversity of couples and cultures to their events, each one unique and beautiful. It has been a privilege to photograph a variety of traditions and ceremonies, each filled with profound love and commitment. The ability to honour and integrate different cultural elements into my wedding photography has created some of the most heartfelt and memorable moments I’ve had the pleasure of capturing thus far. I look forward in the years to come to continuously open my books to all couples looking to have their day captured.

Looking Ahead

As I move into the latter half of 2024, which is going to be busier than the first half, I am excited about the upcoming weddings planned. I have opportunities at a lot of new venues which I am very much looking forward to. Hopefully my creativity, passion, and dedication promise many more beautiful moments to photograph. I look forward to capturing the magic that unfolds at each meticulously planned celebration.

In conclusion, the first half of 2024 with Just James Weddings has been nothing short of spectacular. Their unparalleled attention to detail, seamless coordination, and celebration of love in all its diversity have made every wedding a joy to photograph. Here's to many more beautiful moments and unforgettable weddings in the months to come.

Warmest regards,

James
Somerset Wedding Photographer