This wedding took place at the very end of November, but so close to December that all the Christmas decorations were already up. That always changes the feel of a wedding day in the best possible way. Soft lights, Christmas trees, warm colours and that cosy atmosphere that only comes around once a year.
It was a small, intimate wedding with around 30 guests at a wedding venue I know so, so well; The Osborne Hotel in Torquay. I have said it many times before, these smaller weddings are often some of the nicest to photograph. Everyone knows each other, nobody feels lost in the crowd, and the atmosphere is relaxed and genuinely enjoyable. There is far less rushing about and far more time for people to actually be present and enjoy the day.
I started with a little bit of bridal prep in the bridal room. At that time of year the light coming through the windows is lovely and soft, which makes a big difference for photographs. It wraps around people gently and gives a very natural look without needing to force anything. The room itself was calm and organised, which always helps keep the morning stress free.
The ceremony took place indoors. The room had a lot of natural light coming in from the front, which is great, but it also meant the back of the room was noticeably darker. This is one of those situations where subtle lighting makes all the difference. I placed a couple of AD200 strobes at the back of the room on their lowest settings, just enough to lift the shadows and even the light across the space.
It is not something guests ever notice, and it should not be. The goal is never to make the lighting obvious, just to make the photos feel balanced and natural. That kind of attention to detail is exactly what you are paying for, even if you never realise it is happening at the time.
The ceremony itself was warm and personal, with plenty of smiles and emotion throughout. With a smaller guest count, reactions are easier to see and easier to capture. Little moments between family members, knowing looks, quiet laughs, all of those things that add depth to a wedding gallery.
After the ceremony, the confetti was thrown as the couple walked back down the aisle, which worked brilliantly. It meant everyone was already in place, the moment felt spontaneous, and it kept the energy flowing. The venue staff were incredibly efficient and had the room cleared quickly, ready for the next part of the day.
The reception was held in the larger event room, which had been beautifully set up. Haidee was the wedding coordinator for the day, and as always, she did an amazing job. I have worked with her many times now and she is consistently organised, calm, and completely on top of everything. Days run smoother when you have a coordinator like that, and it shows.
After the meal, we attempted a couple of bride and groom photos outside. Unfortunately, the weather was very much against us, but rather than forcing it, we leaned into the situation. We moved into the area by the check in desk and turned it into something fun instead.
The bride is a big fan of Sarah Morgan Christmas books, which gave us a great excuse to have a bit of fun with the surroundings. We took a mix of light hearted and more formal photos by the fireplace and Christmas tree. Sometimes the best photos come from adapting rather than sticking rigidly to a plan.
The evening entertainment was brilliant and very much reflected the couple. There were casino tables with roulette and blackjack, and they had even brought a games console with them. Mario Kart battles were going on all evening, with plenty of competitive spirit and a lot of laughter. It was relaxed, personal, and exactly how an evening reception should feel.
This was one of those weddings that proves you do not need big numbers or grand gestures for a day to feel special. A small group of people, a warm atmosphere, and a couple who are genuinely enjoying themselves will always result in a great wedding day.
Equipment used on the day
2x Sony A7IV
Sony 70 to 200mm f2.8 GM V2
Sony 24 to 70mm f2.8 GM V2
Sony 24mm f1.4
Sony 85mm f1.4
Godox AD600 Pro flash
Godox V1 speedlights on both cameras, each controlling the other lights
Godox AD200 strobes on each side of the reception room
Do you need a wedding photographer at the Osborne Hotel? Look no further!
