Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. How would you describe your style?
As difficult as this question is to answer, I think it’s important to understand that there are many, MANY different approaches and editing styles in wedding photography these days. Personally, I’m very much in love with cinema, art, and contemporary design, and rather than look to my peers for inspiration, I prefer to look at the work of artists, photojournalists, and street photographers. Details are important as they help provide context to the day but mainly, I like to focus on light, colour, composition and the unique connections between those attending.
Q. Do you do this full-time?
I do. My background is in sports and commercial photography which I used to do while living in New Zealand. But since moving back to the UK I’ve been focussed on weddings. I was named Europe’s Best New Talent in 2019 by BODAF and included in the top 30 Rising Stars of world wedding photography by Rangefinder Magazine in New York. In 2020 I was named one of SLR Lounge’s Top 100 UK photographers and named one of Elle Magazine’s Top 17
Q. Do you photograph the actual wedding ceremony?
Yes. I’m very discreet and hopefully, you’ll never know that I am there. 99.9% of the time I only use natural or available light (no flash) which helps considerably too. Please note, you should always check with the person who you’ve chosen to lead your ceremony ahead of time to ensure they have no restrictions they wish to impose – especially if you are holding your ceremony in a religious setting.
Q. What areas of the UK do you cover? Do you ever shoot destination weddings?
I love to work in new places so I routinely cover weddings throughout the UK. However, if you live further afield, or wish me to cover your overseas destination wedding/elopement, then please get in touch as I’m more than happy to travel greater distances if I’m required to.
Q. How many photos do you take on the day?
I don’t limit the number of photos that I take on your wedding day. I just keep shooting. After, you will typically have over 450+ fully edited shots to look back on.
Q. What do we do if it rains?
While bad weather is always a big worry for brides and grooms, it doesn’t have to be. While it’s advisable to always have a Plan B (an area away from the rain and wind where you and your guests can shelter) some of my favourite shots have been taken outside in conditions where the couple has taken it on with laughter and good grace.
Q. Can we have a chat before the wedding to talk about our plans?
Absolutely. When I’m not travelling I have a busy family life so I usually suggest a video call so I can introduce myself properly and learn a bit more about what you have in mind.
Q. Can I let other people see my wedding photos?
Of course. I know that you’ll love your wedding photos and I very much want you to share and show them to your guests. Your online gallery and slideshow are password protected but please feel free to pass on the links to whoever you wish and share away on social media too.
Q. Are you insured?
Absolutely. I have full public liability insurance and I’ll happily provide evidence over cover if you or your wedding venue require it.
Q. How long do you stay on the day?
Usually, from bridal/groom prep (normally a couple of hours prior to the ceremony) until I have enough images of the reception – but never straight after the first dance! I don’t work set hours and I tend to call it a day only when I’ve got enough images from each part of the wedding but this is usually something we’ll discuss prior to your wedding day.
Q. Do you require us to provide you with a meal/refreshments on the day?
If you or your caterers wish to provide me with a little something to eat, I would never say no! But please don’t feel obliged to do so.
Q. Do you take any formal or group/family photos?
Always! It’s a great idea to take a few formal group shots, and although you won’t see many of them in my portfolio, I think they’re an important part of the day. But while I’m more than happy to oblige, I do recommend keeping these to the most essential ones (bridal party, immediate families, bridesmaids, groomsmen, etc) so we don’t eat into too much of your precious time.
Q. Who will take our photographs?
I will! I don’t have any associate photographers working under my brand. However, should you require me to, I will bring along an experienced second shooter to cover some of the action too (we would agree on this long before the wedding)
Q. Help! I don’t like my photo being taken!
I understand that a lot of people don’t like having their photographs taken so I work in a friendly and unobtrusive way to minimise any awkwardness. I never ask anybody to hold a smile or hold each other in a peculiar way. I’m all about light, details, colour and fleeting moments. Have a look through my wedding portfolio or Instagram page and you should get the idea.
Q. Can my friends and family purchase any prints?
Of course. There are a number of print options in the online gallery area. Remember though, you will have the high-resolution images as well so you could pass the images onto them directly if you wish.
Q. How do we secure our date with you?
Once we’ve had a chat and you’re both happy to proceed, you’ll need to pay a booking fee (which comes off the total cost of your wedding package). I’ll also send you a digital contract that will need to be viewed and signed too. As soon as I have both of these your booking will be confirmed.
FAQs – Luke Bell Photography – Beautiful Modern Wedding Photography / Frequently Asked Questions / Winner BODAF New Talent 2019
