How one wedding changed everything
Starting out in wedding photography was never part of my original plan. In fact, it was born from heartbreak, disappointment, and a gut punch of a wedding photography disaster I experienced firsthand.
Let me take you back. We were newly engaged, everything falling into place for our dream wedding. We’d found the perfect venue, booked all the right suppliers, and trusted a friend of mine who was a professional wedding photographer to capture our day. He was a good mate, and I believed he’d handle everything professionally. But when we met before the wedding, he mentioned needing surgery around our date but promised to keep us updated. I trusted him. Why wouldn’t I?
The morning of my wedding, his 'associate' turned up late. No explanation beyond "my friend having just come out of hospital", this was the first time it was mentioned after our meeting, so I was a little annoyed that I wasn't updated about it as promised. Still, I put on a brave face and decided to enjoy our day. And whilst for the most part I did, I knew that photography wise, things were going south. The replacement photographer was unprepared, had no shot list even though one was provided, and even needed guests and myself to organise group shots. He barely spoke at all, didn't conduct guests for shots or anything, just stood and twiddled with his camera. Worse still, he got drunk on the job and then made inappropriate comments to my bridesmaids.
As a photographer myself, I could see he wasn’t adjusting his settings properly or paying attention to detail. But I stayed positive. I believed we’d still have something beautiful to look back on. I knew that my photographer wasn't shooting on the day but industry standard would be that you'd still edit the photos.
When the photos arrived, my heart sank. Apparently my original photographer was having nothing to do with the editing of the photo's? They were all to be done by his 'associate'. They were blurry (and not the good, 2025 trend kind either.) They were poorly composed, badly exposed, and flat. There was no soul in them. I was devastated. This wasn’t just about bad photos, it was about having the most important day of my life reduced to a gallery of images that didn’t reflect us at all. I cried, fought for the RAW files and eventually salvaged about ten useable images from thousands. The heartbreak was real.
But instead of being consumed by anger, I decided to turn that pain into purpose. I vowed to become the photographer I needed on my own wedding day. Someone who shows up. Who listens. Who creates a safe, inclusive, and affirming space. Someone who truly gives a damn.
That experience didn’t just shape my photography style, it shaped my entire ethos.
I believe wedding photography is about so much more than beautiful images. It’s about creating an experience where you feel heard, seen, and supported from start to finish. That’s why I give so much help and guidance around wedding planning. Because I know how easy it is to feel overwhelmed, especially when you’re neurodivergent, disabled, or navigating this while trying to hold true to your authentic self. It’s not just about logistics; it’s about creating a space where you can be your whole self without judgment.
I’m here to be your calm, grounding presence.
To make sure your day runs smoothly. To offer tips that go beyond photography—like how to handle sensory overload, what to consider when choosing a venue that works for everyone, or how to make your timeline inclusive and flexible. I share what I’ve learned not just from my own disaster but from years of working with couples who needed that extra bit of care.
My photography isn’t just about the technical stuff, it’s about heart. It’s about capturing honest, raw, and beautiful moments that reflect who you really are. It’s about respecting every identity, every dynamic, and every need. Whether you’re LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, disabled, or just want someone who’ll listen and make you feel seen, I’m here for that.
This experience of being let down, not just by a friend, but by someone in the industry I trusted, has driven me to build a photography practice built on empathy and real connection. I know how vulnerable it feels to put your trust in someone on such an important day. That’s why I show up early, plan meticulously, and stay fully present throughout your day. I offer a calm, reassuring presence and ensure your experience is as positive and stress-free as possible. It’s about creating a partnership where you feel supported, valued, and confident – not just in the photos we create but in the entire experience of your wedding day.
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