My approach to wedding photography differs from other wedding photographers. From the moment I started shooting weddings, 15 years ago, I had already been an editorial and fashion photographer for over 10 years.

Looking at what was around I knew I could offer something more unique, something that could be treasured in years to come. Most wedding photography seemed to follow the current trends being set by the parameters of Photoshop and a lot of it still quite cheesy.

Thinking of what I could do didn't take particularly long, and it was right in front of me. At the time I was shooting colour digital for all my editorial and fashion but I was brought up as a photographic assistant loading camera with film. I would also shoot film myself for clients who wanted the fine art print as the final product and not just a USB stick... and there it was!

I decided to offer film in my packages alongside digital and people absolutely loved the prints to have alongside their book. There is always something special about a handprint. Knowing the work that has gone into it and the processes involved etc. It's a little like comparing CDs to Vinyl. A handprint has a depth and quality a digital print just wants to emulate.

Loving documentary photography and shooting a bit in the past, I decided to do more of that style for my weddings. It means the cheesiness is eliminated and you spend a lot less time doing shots for me than you would with a lot of other photographers. I've been a guest at many a wedding where Bride and Groom can very easily disappear for an hour or more of “their” reception.

Finally, what else could I do to attract clients and stay outside the box? It comes in the form of a large Contact Print made from your film. At past shows, it has really attracted so much attention. It's purely analogue and will never date. See images and find out more on my website.

Website: Richard Payne Weddings
Instagram: @richardpayne_
Contact: info@richardpaynephotographer.com