FAQ

What is documentary wedding photography?
Documentary (or photojournalistic) wedding photography is all about capturing your day naturally, as it unfolds, rather than focusing on posed shots. I’ll be discreet throughout the day, looking for those real, in-the-moment memories that tell your story. While I do include some relaxed portraits of you, your families, and bridal party, around three quarters of your photos will be natural, documentary-style images that reflect the true spirit of your wedding.

Where can I view examples of your documentary wedding photography?
You can explore six featured wedding stories on this page, which show how I capture real, unscripted moments like laughter, nerves, and joy, throughout the day. Most of your photos will be natural and documentary-style, but I’ll also include beautifully staged portraits of you both that are designed to truly wow. Together, this mix of candid and posed images tells your story in a way that feels authentic, emotional, and unforgettable.

We want natural looking photographs of our wedding that are not over-posed, do you provide these?
Yes, my style and approach is all about capturing people naturally in order to tell the story of your day authentically. When it comes to take those all important portraits of the two of you, this will also be as natural as possible. A certain amount of positioning is needed to create photos that will wow everyone, though I’m always looking to photograph couples in a way that will capture who they really are and to do this I will be as unobtrusive as possible.

Do you take traditional formal group shots?
Yes I do and I also like to take creative group shots that will not only document who attended your wedding, but in a natural, exciting or humorous way. This is usually the bridal party, the Bride with her Bridesmaids and the Groom with his Best Man and Ushers.  I also like to take natural, informal family photos such as the Bride and Groom with Mother and Father to capture the closeness within the families.

We only want a few formal group shots, is this ok?
Absolutely and the good news is I’m not the kind of photographer who will have you and your guests waiting in line for long periods of time whilst I take these. I love the documentary approach which means being unobtrusive and photographing people being themselves. You can view many of these kind of shots in my featured weddings below.

Do we need a second photographer?
Not typically. However, if your guest list is over 250, it allows more time for candid coverage. It’s also a great option if the bride and groom are getting ready in different locations and you’d like both captured.

Do you provide albums?
Oh yes indeed and I supply only the very highest quality! my albums are hand-made in Italy and our fabulous range comes with multiple gorgeous cover options. To give you a taste of whats on offer click here.

How many photos will I receive?
I’ve spent years perfecting the art of telling a wedding story, and for me it’s all about quality over quantity, capturing the moments that truly matter. Typically, a full-day wedding with around 100 to 120 guests, you can usually expect 450+ images, all carefully chosen to tell your story in a creative and exciting way. The exact number varies depending on things like the amount of guests, weather, length of speeches, or evening entertainment. But rest assured, you’ll always receive the right amount to capture your day beautifully and every time you look back, you’ll notice new details and relive those memories all over again. I also highly recommend investing in a wedding album. It’s a wonderful way to experience your story in one sitting and share it with loved ones, while also preserving it for future generations.

You are based in Swindon, which is far from us, is this a problem?
Not at all, I cover the whole of England, Wales and Scotland and no destination is too far. For locations further a field, I will ask for travel and accommodation costs to be covered.

We would like a consultation to discuss our requirements and see your albums and portfolio. 
A video call consultation is arranged at a time and date that is convenient for you. If you would prefer we meet in person, we can arrange to meet at your home if you live in Swindon where I am based.

How does the British weather affect the photography?
Rain or shine, every weather brings unique opportunities! Rain can make stunning portraits, and I’ll provide an umbrella if needed. For group shots, we’ll use covered outdoor spots or indoor areas, and if there are brief showers, we’ll simply wait for the right moment to get some beautiful shots outside.

Do you provide B&W photos as well as colour?
I photograph everything in colour and occasionally choose a small selection of photos to be black and white. The bride and groom prep stage and first dance can work well as monochrome adding an extra dimension to a wedding story.

Is a pre-wedding shoot worth it?
Definitely! It’s a fun and relaxed way to get amazing photos together before the big day, while also helping you feel totally comfortable in front of the camera. You’ll end up with beautiful images you can use for save-the-dates, thank you cards, or a guest book—and it’s a brilliant warm-up for your wedding photography. Plus, when added to an album package, it comes at a special discounted rate.

Can our families and guests purchase prints and digital downloads through your service?
Oh yes! I will email you a link and password to view your photos on your very own private online gallery where you can view your photos, purchase prints, digital downloads, wall and desk products with ease.

Do you own the copyright to our photographs?
Yes—retaining copyright is standard practice for professional photographers. Don’t worry though, all packages include a full licence for you to print and copy as much as you like, with all your images provided at high-resolution on a USB.

Do you provide the raw files?
No, I don’t provide RAW files. Editing is a key part of my creative process, ensuring your wedding story looks polished, consistent, and beautiful.

If needed, are you able to work extra hours?
Yes, I am very flexible and extra hours can be added on the day of your wedding.

I can’t find the answer to my question in the FAQ, what should I do?
The FAQ contains commonly asked questions. To discuss your wedding in-depth, we can arrange a video call chat. A video call chat is a really good idea as we can get to know each other a little and discuss all your exciting plans for your wedding! You can also give me a call me on: 07756540584 or you can email me at: peter@petersmartphotography.co.uk.