Oh, what a day it was! A day where the sun seemed to smile down upon us, as my son William and I ventured into the heart of Sidmouth, armed with our four cameras and a passion for capturing moments that would last a lifetime. Our destination was the enchanting Harbour Hotel, where love and lots of smiles were the currency of the day. After just one visit, we were added to their preferred vendor list. Find out why…

The Harbor Hotel in Sidmouth sits on the coast with stunning views across the town and beach. There are not many places with a better view for a wedding ceremony!

Our journey began by being greeted by the amazing staff, who were nothing but professional and helpful all day. We always start off with the careful choreography of all the details within the reception room. The couple spends a long time picking everything to make it the perfect place. William and I, side by side, documented the meticulous arrangements, the little things that make it their own. We use lighting to balance the room so it has a more even light across the picture.

Let’s take a look at some photos from the day and then give you an idea of what to expect if you’re having your wedding at the Harbour Hotel in Sidmouth.

In the midst of the bustling Bridal Prep, I found myself surrounded by a symphony of laughter and excitement. Meanwhile, William, my talented son, navigated the world of Groom Prep, capturing camaraderie and anticipation. The rooms, despite the heat, were alive with genuine smiles, reminding us of the profound significance of the day.

The Ceremony

Outdoors, beneath the golden sun and amidst the grandeur of nature, the ceremony unfolded. Vows were exchanged, promises made, and love hung thick in the air. With each click, our cameras became vessels of emotion, capturing stolen glances, tender touches, and an overwhelming sense of joy. The sea, a silent witness, provided the perfect backdrop, enhancing the beauty of the moment.

Post-Ceremony Revelry

The celebration spilled into the hotel grounds, where champagne flowed and laughter filled the air. Guided by an invisible choreography, we orchestrated groups, freezing genuine smiles and shared jokes. As I took all the formal shots that had been requested, William, against the delicate white rose flower arch, captured photos of all the guests. We take both wide and close-up, so the couples could choose which they preferred, rather than us picking it for them.

When I’m taking formal photos, I do so with the biggest smile and with humor. I love it when people ask to take some less serious photos during the formal photos. I’ll include those silly ones in-between photos (as above) because it shows why the smiles were natural!

I use lighting for 90% of the day, including the formals. As you’ll see above, it’s difficult to tell I have used lighting. People look like they ‘pop’ in the photos and look much nicer than in the phone photos. That’s how I achieve it! When I’m taking formal photos, people always stand by me taking photos on their phones, but I never mind. The lighting will always make mine look so much nicer.

The Speeches

Inside, amidst the clinking of glasses and the resonance of heartfelt words, speeches unfolded. Humor mingled with sentiment, and the room was alive with raw emotions. Through our lenses, we captured laughter lines, misty eyes, and the genuine warmth of embraces. The speech-givers gave it their all and the laughs and tears reflected how well each had done writing their speeches.

Sunset Portraits

As the day transitioned into dusk, we whisked the newlyweds away to a nearby park and gardens. The fading sunlight painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, creating a magical atmosphere. Against this backdrop, we directed the couple, freezing stolen glances, shared laughter, and promises exchanged in whispers. I don’t pose, I ask you both to do things or say things that will make you both smile or laugh. That’s why the photos always look so natural!

Memories Captured

As night descended upon Sidmouth, we packed our cameras, each photograph echoing with the love and joy of the day. We weren’t just ‘the photographers’; we love our roles so much that we became an unforgettable part of the day for everyone there. The staff at the Hotel were so impressed with how we engaged with everyone and kept everyone smiling, they placed us on their preferred vendor list on just our first visit.

Do you need a Wedding Photographer for the Harbour Hotel Sidmouth? Please get in touch!