Alicia Victoria | Red Maple PhotographyAlicia Victoria | Red Maple Photography

Category: Planning

Bride and groom posing for wedding picture at Pauntley Court, Gloucestershire

Top Gloucestershire Wedding Photographers: How to Choose the Right One for You

Choosing your Gloucestershire Wedding Photographer

Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting and sometimes overwhelming experiences of your life. From the dress to the venue to the guest list; every detail matters. But one decision that often holds more weight than most is choosing the right wedding photographer. After all, your photos will be the lasting memory of your day.

If you’re getting married in Gloucestershire, you’re in luck. The region is not only known for its stunning countryside, elegant venues, and historic charm it’s also home to some truly talented wedding photographers. But with so many choices, how do you know which one is right for you?

In this post, I will guide you through my knowledge and experience from photographing wedding all over Gloucestershire on exactly how to find your perfect Gloucestershire wedding photographer, location, including what to look for, what to ask, and what to avoid.

Why Gloucestershire Is a Dream Wedding Location

Before diving into the photography, let’s take a moment to appreciate why Gloucestershire is such a popular choice for weddings:

The Lost Orangery Wiltshire couple dancing in boathouse

  • Rolling Cotswold hills and scenic backdrops

  • Historic manor houses, barns, and castles

  • Great transport links for guests from Bristol, London, and the Midlands

  • Beautiful seasonal variety: spring blossoms, summer fields, autumn colours, and even magical winter frost

This range of backdrops gives photographers the creative freedom to capture your day in unique and memorable ways.

Step 1: Understand Your Style

The first step in choosing your wedding photographer is understanding what photographic style suits you best. Here are some of the most popular styles you’ll find in Gloucestershire:

  • Documentary / Reportage: Candid, natural moments that tell the story of the day as it unfolds.

  • Fine Art: Artistic and stylised photos with careful attention to composition and light.

  • Traditional / Classic: Posed group shots and timeless portraits.

  • Editorial / Fashion-Inspired: Dramatic, styled imagery similar to magazine spreads.

Ask yourself: Do you want relaxed and unobtrusive coverage? Or do you love the idea of bold, stylised images?

Bride and groom hold Prosecco bottles in their hands at night time at Tortworth court in front of Gloucestershire wedding photographer

Step 2: Shortlist Local Photographers (because we are all very different!)

Start by searching online for phrases like:

  • Gloucestershire wedding photographer

  • Cotswolds wedding photographer

  • Documentary wedding photographer Gloucestershire

Check out our websites and portfolios. Look for the following:

 Consistent editing style
 Full galleries (not just highlights)
 Real weddings (not just styled shoots)
 Images that evoke emotion and feel personal

If you find yourself smiling, tearing up, or feeling like you were there while browsing the galleries: you’re on the right track.

Step 3: Think About Personality and Connection

Your photographer will be with you for most of your wedding day, often in very personal moments. Ladies, when you getting dressed think about how you feel having a male or female photographing you in those intimate moments. Does it bother you? If so keep that in mind. That’s why connection is key.

When you meet or have a video chat,I always ask clients to ask themselves:

  • Do they make you feel comfortable and heard?

  • Is Alicia confident, organised, and calm?

  • Can she adapt to different personalities, family dynamics, or unexpected moments?

The best photographers don’t just take beautiful photos: they know how to read the room, direct with kindness, and put people at ease. You shouldn’t be worried about time on your wedding day. A good photographer will be well organised before the day so we can help it run smoothly on the day. LESS stress gives you better pictures!

Bath prior Park wedding ceremony outside in beautiful summer weather

Step 4: Ask the Right Questions

Here are some helpful questions to ask during your consultation:

  • Have you shot at our venue before?

  • What’s included in your packages?

  • Do you work alone or with a second shooter?

  • How many photos will we receive and when?

  • What happens if you’re unwell on the day?

  • Can we see full galleries of weddings similar to ours?

A professional photographer will be happy to answer all of these and more with transparency and enthusiasm.

alicia Victoria takes a selfie with wedding guests

Step 5: Consider Packages and Budget

Wedding photography in Gloucestershire can range from £1000 to £3000+, depending on experience, coverage, and extras like albums or engagement shoots.

Here’s a rough guide:

  • Basic coverage (4–6 hours): £750–£1500

  • Full-day coverage (8–10 hours): £1600–£2500

  • Luxury or editorial-style packages: £2500+

Remember, photography is one of the few investments that lasts beyond your wedding day. Prioritise quality and connection over price alone. My prices for full day start £2000 and you will get more than just me for the day. We spend alot of time preparing for your day by making sure your timeline is smooth and runs beautifully so you are not stressed on the day.

Step 6: Read the Reviews (and Trust Your Gut)

Google reviews, Instagram tags, and testimonials on websites can offer great insight into how a photographer works. Look for repeated mentions of:

  • Calmness under pressure

  • Friendliness and professionalism

  • Quick communication

  • Fast turnaround time

  • Emotional and beautiful results

And finally trust your gut. If you connect with me or someone else, love my work or theirs, and feel excited about working together, that’s your person.

Final Thoughts

Gloucestershire offers not just stunning locations for weddings, but an incredibly talented pool of photographers to match. Take the time to explore, connect, and ask the right questions. The right photographer will not only document your day they’ll help you relive it, forever.

Ready to find your Gloucestershire wedding photographer?
Explore my portfolio, real weddings, and packages here and get in touch to book a free consultation. Let’s tell your story, your way.

Bride and groom cuddle on a sofa at Pauntley Court in front of Gloucestershire wedding photographer

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