Image of the week 7
This weeks image is one that pretty much speaks for itself.
At the very end of the evening the father of the Bride had arrange for a gorgeous fireworks display, which was held on the lawn next to the lake in the grounds of the reception.
One of those images that captures the moment perfectly.
A beautiful ending to a beautiful day.
Fireworks
Image of the week 5
This weeks image is one from the wedding of Paul and Lisa, going back to Dec 2008.
I love this shot for various reasons but I guess it would really boil down to two things. The Moment and the light.
The moment speaks pretty much for itself really. The look of pride and adoration on the man face is saying a thousand words without having to say anything at all. I guess we all have this moment as people, where you just catch yourself and realise how lucky we are to have that person, that someone special.
With regard to the light, the shot is just taken using the ambient light available from the dance floor. I was trialing a 50mm 1.2 lens at this wedding and have to say it was amazing. In all fairness, the shot could have still been achieved with a 1.4 or a 1.8, however the 1.2 was incredible. A pleasure to use.
It really is moments like this that mean far more to me on a wedding day than the formal line up shots as they tell the story of the day. They capture moment and, if you’re lucky they capture an emotion.
A quick plug to remind you that there is 20% of all bookings received before June 30th 2011.
www.mattbrodieweddingphotography.com
Dance © Matt Brodie Wedding Photography
Image of the week 4
This weeks image is from the the wedding of Oliver and Alexis, earlier this month.
The wedding ceremony and reception was held at Winkworth Farm, which a lovely barn conversion within a working farm, in the middle of some very beautiful countryside.
I had the great pleasure of meeting with Oliver and Alexis last year to discuss their wedding photography and it tuned out that they were very good friends of James and Laura, a couple who’s wedding I was photographing the following month. The meeting with them was one that will stick in my mind very clearly for many years to come. The reason being, once I had left them after our meeting I drove to my fiance’s fathers house to ask for his blessing to marry her. He said yes!!!!
Oliver and Alexis were at James and Laura’s wedding the following month and it was very clear to see how much they care about each other and also what good friends they are and have.
So, fast forward nine months and their day had arrived. It was lovely to see so many faces from the wedding of their friends the previous year. The day was full of laughter, love and had the feel of a wonderful, laid back, relaxed party.
I stole the bride and groom for 5 minutes during the afternoon for a quick walk around the farm grounds and we found this old building and it just had to be a shot.
I wish Oliver and Alexis many years of happiness, love and wonderful times together.
www.mattbrodieweddingphotography.com
Oliver and Alexis © Matt Brodie Wedding Photography
Image of the week 2
This weeks image of the week is from the wedding of Paul and Lisa
As photographers we often capture the preparations before the ceremony. From details through to the bride getting in to her dress etc.
On this morning I was going between the rooms where the Bride and Bridesmaids were getting ready and the room where the Groom, best man and ushers were doing the same.
This is one of those great moments where people are concentrating on getting ready, dressed, texting their significant others and generally making sure that everything is set. Neither of the chaps were even aware that I was shooting this moment, until the shutter had clicked. There aren’t too many times where you will see a couple of guys helping each other in the normal day to day. We’re all used to doing our own ties, shining our shoes and making sure we are ready to face the world. Wedding days are one of the few occasions where men are happy to help each other out.
The shot was taken using available light with the camera set to 1600 asa.
www.mattbrodieweddingphotography.com
Button hole
Image of the Week 1
There are a few photographers who I follow on the internet. Either from their blog or just the regular updates on their websites.
I decided that it might be a nice idea to post a weekly image on the blog and then discuss the details surrounding it. This isn’t going to be in the form of ASA, shutter speeds or apertures. The idea is just to discuss how the shot came about and what I think works about it.
I hope that this proves to be of interest. Please feel free to leave any comments ( no swearing or being stupid thank you. There are plenty of other places for that on the internet )
Keep in touch.
This is one of my all time favourite wedding images that I have shot over the years. It’s not a particularly technical shot in any way. It’s one of those images that mainly requires being in the right place at the right time.
The wedding was of Melanie and Simon, who were one of the most genuinely and openly affectionate couples on their wedding day. The whole day was beautiful, from Melanie getting ready at their flat in Bath through to the Ceremony at Bathampton Church and the reception at Priston Mill. You could feel the love that they had for each other in the simple way that they would look at each other. Truly one of my favourite couples to this day.
This shot was taken as Melanie arrived at the church for the ceremony. I knew the direction that the car would be arriving from and had positioned myself accordingly. I took a few shots as the car approached the gateway of the church before this one, but this was my favourite of the sequence. I have just moved in as the car stopped in order to shoot this shot. For me it works due to the lack of distractions. I could have shot wider in order to show more of the scene, but for me the moment is all about the bride and the sense of anticipation. I think that the look on Melanie’s face perfectly captures the various feelings and emotions that most brides have as they arrive at their wedding ceremony.
I sometimes feel that I can’t really take credit for certain images. This would be a case in point. The moment was there for the taking. The light was bright, crisp and clear and melanie looked effortlessly beautiful. All I really had to do was press the button.
For me, the shot sums up a wedding.
Have a great weekend.
Matt.
Wedding show at The stratford in…….you guessed it, Stratford
Becky getting ready
A walk at the beach
We decided to take Oliver to the beach for the very first time today. So, we bundled everything into the car, along with the dog and headed an hour down the road to Weston Super Mare ( or Weston Super Mud as it is affectionately known ).
As expected, the dog went nuts, Oliver was pretty oblivious and the sea was pretty far out in the distance, perfect for strolling along the beach.
Took a couple of snaps whilst we were there. Here they are.
The new Pier
Pier walkway
Beach Comber
Wedding show prep
I’ve spent quite a lot of time in the last couple of weeks sorting out new albums and a whole new product range.
We have quite a few wedding shows to attend over the next 4 weeks, so it has been a good time to look at what we can bring to the table in terms of great value for our customers.
There are now 3 packages to chose from, ranging from an all digital delivery package through to packages containing bespoke, personally designed wedding albums. All packages are fully inclusive of full coverage on the wedding day and should give clients some great options to chose from
I’ll be posting about each of the wedding shows as we do each one, for those of you who are interested. I will be curious to see how they go as I have always gained work through recommendations. Really looking forward to getting out and meeting potential clients face to face.
A huge thank you to my album manufacturers. We had some problems getting the products just right, but they have come up trumps and the new album range looks fantastic. The quality is without a doubt the best that I have seen, an considerably better than the leading Italian manufacturer that I used up until a few years back.
Anyhoo, I’ll leave you all to it for now and will be waffling again in the next few days.
www.mattbrodiewedingphotography.com
Becky and Patrick
I had the great pleasure of covering the wedding of Becky and Patrick last year.
The wedding was at St Gregory’s church in Tredington near Ettington. The ceremony was conducted by Becky’s grandfather, which added such a beautiful and personal feel to the day, even as a spectator. I can only begin to imagine how wonderful it must have been for Becky and Patrick.
After the ceremony everyone hit the road and headed for Gorcott Hall, in Redditch. The afternoon reception was set to live music in the gardens whist guests, family and friends enjoyed a glass or two of Champagne before heading in for the speeches and meal.
In the evening a live band kept everyone entertained and a cartoonist mingled with guests and produced some fantastic and very funny portraits of willing victims.
Wishing Becky and Patrick a wonderful life together and my heart felt thanks for letting me share their wonderful wedding day with them.
www.mattbrodieweddingphotography.com
The Valentine’s Day Special offer
So, I got my thinking cap on regarding what would make a really good Valentine’s Day offer.
If you are anything like me, the best offer is when you can keep money in your back pocket, which led me to this.
Between today and the 18th of Feb 2011 I will offer both packages at a whopping 30% discount.
This will make the top package £1750.00p and the cheaper package £1470.00p. These packages are totally inclusive. Check the website to see what is included with each one.
This offer can’t be used in conjunction with any other promotion and is only available between the dates mentioned above.
Have a wonderful Valentine’s Day weekend.
Kind regards,
Matt
www.mattbrodieweddingphotography.com
© Matt Brodie Wedding Photography
Valentine’s Day Special—-Watch this space
I was thinking that with Valentine’s Day almost upon us, I should really offer something special online.
Keep your eyes peeled and watch this space for a special offer that I will announce on 14th Feb. I’m going to
get my thinking cap on and come up with something good.
All the best,
Matt.
www.mattbrodieweddingphotography.com
Tips for choosing your wedding photographer
Start researching for your wedding photographer and you will soon discover quite how many there are, all offering similar services – but are they? Choosing according to a set budget may mean you end up with less than you bargained for but paying “top dollar” may not guarantee “top quality”. In this post I will put an end to some of the myths.
Firstly, decide how much of the wedding budget you are willing to spend prior to commencing your research. Prices vary wildly from £500 to approximately £10,000 depending on a number of factors, sadly none of them necessarily clear. Whilst there are a vast number of passionate and dedicated professionals out there, there is also an increasing number of “hobbyists” and “amateurs” that have invested in the latest gadgetry and profess to be full time wedding photographers. This can cause wild variations in both prices and quality.
Once a budget is established, decide on what style of photography you prefer. From modern to traditional, there are many options, so research different websites to gain a clear idea of what you like.
Following that, my advice is to look carefully at what the packages cover as this is where many of the pitfalls can occur. Similar to low cost airlines, by the time you have chosen your preferred items you can suddenly find yourself paying considerably more than originally thought.
Consider the following:
How much coverage do you require? Some packages only cover the ceremony and speeches whilst the bridal preparation and first dance will be charged as extras.
How many images will you receive? If, after editing the photographer has 300 images for you to view, will you receive them all? Some photographers will only supply a set number of images, charging for additional extras.
What copyright permission are you granted? Many photographers will not release high resolution images digitally, allowing you to freely reproduce and share prints. Be sure of what you are getting.
What products will you receive to showcase your images? From DVD’s and web galleries to prints and bespoke handmade albums there are packages to suit and confuse all. Be sure of what you want and are getting for the price.
Summing up:
Research is key. Know what you want. Know your budget and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Put a shortlist of potential photographers together and meet up for a coffee and an informal chat.
Matt Brodie Wedding Photography
Matt Brodie Wedding Photography offers fully inclusive packages. Clients receive all images as digital high res files in both colour and B&W, a web gallery of all images, proof prints and a bespoke coffee table book, designed personally by Matt Brodie.
Matt is based in the cotswolds in the heart of Gloucestershire and covers, Bath, Bristol, Gloucestershire and the UK.
www.mattbrodieweddingphotography.com
Matt Brodie in conversation
INCONSPICUOUS. This is the word I like to use when anyone asks me to describe my approach to photographing a wedding. The dictionary definition puts it best; Modest, Quiet, not attracting attention.
For me, a wedding should be approached in a sympathetic and truthful manner, providing an honest and beautiful record of the day.
How long have you been photographing weddings?
I launched Matt Brodie Wedding Photography 7 years ago, having previously spent 3 years in the commercial and editorial sector.
Where is the most interesting place you have photographed a wedding?
Nash point lighthouse on the south coast of Wales, the only lighthouse that is licensed for weddings in the UK. It was quite a cold and blustery day, and not being a huge fan of heights, proved to be quite entertaining. It made for some lovely images and a very memorable day. I also had the privilege of shooting a beautiful wedding in Sorrento on the Almalfi coast in Italy. The day was absolutely beautiful and very warm. The bride arrived in a horse drawn carriage and the wedding was conducted by the Mayor. All of this with Mount Vesuvias as a backdrop. This has to be one of my favourite weddings to date
What is included in your wedding packages?
My packages are all inclusive from start to finish. There are no extra costs if you want to include the bride getting ready, the first dance or even fireworks at the end of the evening.
After the wedding I personally edit every image. My clients receive all images in colour and black and white, both as high resolution files and proof prints. Full copyright usage is granted, allowing the reproduction of images as required, without extra costs being incurred. I also provide a unique web gallery and a DVD slideshow. The only difference between my packages is the size of the album.
How long is your average day?
This depends on the days structure. I have shot a wedding that only took 6 hours in total and I have also covered a 13 hour day, not including travel. No wedding is the same.
What makes you work different from other wedding photographers?
I would say the difference is in the way that I approach the day. I see it as my job to provide a record of the wedding, that not only tells a story but also conveys the emotion and feel of the day. I don’t base my work on the latest trends, but shoot in a photojournalistic style that provides a timeless and lasting record.
What is the most important aspect of photographing a wedding for you?
Honesty. I don’t believe in arranging the wedding, as this then becomes the photographers idea of what the wedding should look like, rather than how it really is. I am there to document the day, not to create a version of it.
When your not photographing weddings, what keeps you occupied?
I shoot commercially for a number of clients, ranging from Center Parcs, Sky TV, the RSPCA and Celebrity Chef Aldo Zilli.
When I don’t have a camera in my hand I love to spend my time with my beautiful fiance, Verity, our baby boy, Oliver, and our crazy dog, Polly.
www.mattbrodieweddingphotography.com
Alex and Abi
End of the year
So, here we are and another year is almost at it’s end, but what a great year 2010 has been in so many ways.
Without a doubt the highlight has been the birth of our son at the end of September, followed closely by getting engaged in the summer, not a shotgun in sight, you’ll be pleased to hear.
As far as work is concerned, I’ve had the pleasure of covering some absolutely gorgeous weddings throughout the country in the last twelve months. A few spring to mind in particular. I covered the wedding of Louisa and Rob at Spring Hill Farm in Fladbury, on a very warm day in June. The wedding was held on the lawn under a beautiful canopy, surrounded by their friends, family and guests, with the backdrop of a lake, swans, meadows and the surrounding countryside. After the ceremony the guests all enjoyed a glass of champagne on the lawn, followed by traditional tea and cream cakes and a selection of lawn games. The end of the day culminated in a spectacular fireworks display followed by live music until the small hours.
Another favourite of the year was the wedding of Laura and James at the Riverstation in Bristol. A very modern location for a wedding, right on the river, as the name would suggest. After the ceremony the bride, groom and the wedding party all made their way to The Matthew, a replica galleon style ship which cruised along the river, allowing them to enjoy their champagne whist taking in the surrounding area and receiving applause from passers by and well wishers.
The commercial side of the business has been busy this year too, shooting for clients ranging from hotels and restaurants, through to the likes of Savills and Property Week magazine. I also had the pleasure of shooting the imagery for a Sky Arts 8 part series called Music Room which is in the middle of being aired at present. The series looks at a different classical musician each week, cutting between live performance and interviews, which were conducted by Howard Goodall.
We moved into our new base at Cheltenham Film and Photographic Studios earlier in the year allowing us to offer studio portraits as well as the location portraits we have been shooting for some time now. Let’s be honest, our weather isn’t always as predictable as we would like it to be, and this helps us to offer our clients the best of both worlds.
The next twelve months look to be just as interesting as this last year. We have weddings throughout the UK, ranging form informal garden parties to traditional and very grand churches and stately homes. Some of the days will probably be as short as eight hours and others will be in the region of sixteen. Luckily for me, I have an ongoing love affair with the beauty that is inherent in a wedding day and all that it symbolises for everyone involved. I am lucky enough to be doing something that I love for a living, and you can’t ask for more than that.
I would like to wish you all a very happy, healthy and prosperous new year from Matt Brodie Wedding Photography.
www.mattbrodieweddingphotography.com
© Matt Brodie Wedding Photography
Greg and Sally
One of my most logistically challenging weddings was 2 days ago. It was, however, one of my favourite ones of the year.
Greg and Sally are a wonderful couple whom I had the great pleasure of covering as my last wedding of this year. The weather, as we all know was challenging, to say the least. Getting from Cheltenham to Cirencester normally would take no longer than 30 minutes, but due to the snow, pretty much all of the roads out of Chelt were closed. I popped round a Rd closed sign and slowly slithered my way to The New Inn at Coln St Aldwyns, where Sally was getting ready.
After about an hour with her I Slithered a few miles down the Rd to Barnsley to find Greg and his friends having a drink in the pub before heading across the St to St Mary’s church for the service.
After the ceremony they left the church via the guard of honour ( Greg and Sally are both n the army ), heading for Cripps Barn for their reception.
The turnout of guests was fantastic and the reception, speeches and the whole day was beautiful and a true pleasure to be a part of.
I would like to take the opportunity to wish Greg and Sally many years of health, love and happiness.
Matt
www.mattbrodieweddingphotography.com
Springhill House
Springhill house is a fantastic venue that I had the pleasure of shooting a wedding at earlier this year for Louisa and Rob (Burni to his friends).
Springhill house can be found in Fladbury, just outside of Evesham. Set in beautiful grounds, including Tennis courts, beautiful lawns, a lake, with resident swans and trout and a croquet lawn set in the walled gardens.
The property is owned and run by Jonathan and Marion Bomford. The website can be found at http://www.springhillhouse.co.uk/index.htm
A truly special location and a joy to photograph.
Many thanks to Louisa and Rob.
www.mattbrodieweddingphotography.com
Louisa and Rob Springhill House meadow
Louisa and Rob Springhill House Fireworks
Matt Brodie Wedding Photography Blog 