Dominique and James’ wedding photographs at Laughton Barns, East Sussex.

Dominique and James booked me as their wedding photographer on Friday. I started the day at the bride’s home in Brighton, taking shots of Dominique and her bridesmaids getting ready, and details of the dress and flowers. I set off for Laughton Barns ahead of Dominique, who was driven to the venue by her father in a vintage Triumph Herald.

The ceremony, reception, wedding breakfast and party all took place at Laughton Barns near Lewes, followed by overnight camping for the guests. I’ve never been here before and thought the grounds were great. There were two lakes, with a view of the Sussex landscape behind, very nice for photos. There was also a hay cart which we tried as a backdrop but it looked a bit too tatty (you need a bit of new hay in there folks).
The lighting for the wedding ceremony was potentially tricky. It was dark enough to need flash but there was no suitable ceiling or wall to bounce off, and I wanted to avoid using direct flash if at all possible. Luckily, Carol, the registrar, was very helpful and allowed me to set up a light and brolly to one side, which solved the problem.

I had a couple of photo opportunities with the bride and groom, one after the ceremony when the skies were very grey, and a later session when the sun came out and really made the place look good. For a comparison look at the first and last shots in this post, first shot in the gloom and the last shot in the evening sun. I used a speedlight and brolly for both shots.

It’s difficult to say nice things about a couple without sounding like a bit of a toady, but Dom and James both seemed like lovely people and a great match. I enjoyed myself during this wedding, particularly during the speeches from the two best men, fantastic stuff but I’m surprised James is still talking to you.
Thanks to Ashley and the staff at Laughton Barns who sorted out a meal and generally looked after me, always appreciated during a long day.

Finally, a nod to Dominique’s father who, as I left the venue told me “You looked like you probably knew what you were doing”. Thanks a lot Neill, I’ll try not to let that go to my head.

See the wedding photography page on the main site for more information