My photography style is warm and moody. Warm like my personality and moody like Scotland.
Documentary, professional, storytelling, artistic, atmospheric, emotional, raw – the common words you can find if you look around for a wedding photographer. I feel like that is not quite the full picture of my photography style.
To put it simply, my work is a twist between honest editorial and art. But above all, what I LOVE is creating a visual story about people. I am for you, your family and your friends. Your day is unique and special. I will be there to capture your big day and bring back memories of the beautiful moments of your life. For me, it’s a privilege to be a witness to such a special day.
I don’t heavily edit or retouch photos. I use my own colour preset, developed over the years, to create that “moody” editing style with a touch of the grainy vintage film look. I deliver photos in colour and black and white. The amount of b&w shoots varies between 20% to 40% off the gallery package.
The Morning
My coverage usually starts 2 hours before the ceremony. For example, if the wedding starts at 1 pm, I’ll be covering the preparation from 11 am. I take my time to shoot details, dress, and all that’s happening around during this moment in the least interrupting way.
I usually let myself go as creatively as I can to play with light and shadows. I may ask you to move towards a better light in the room once you are ready and dressed, if needed, but that’s all. Ultimately, I’d like to blend in as much as an invisible man. In reality, that gives you plenty of time to get used to the camera and hopefully see me not much different from one of your guests.
Ceremony
This is your only time. I will not be directing or suggesting anything. I will keep a reasonable distance to avoid distracting you or your guests during that important chapter of your wedding day. However, focusing on every detail and moment. I must be prepared for every smile, tear, and confetti thrown in the air – all kinds of reactions of your close ones.
As much as your photos are important, in the end, the most important thing is your wedding day, and I’ll do my best to ensure the photography part is enjoyable and easy-going.
Reception
Right after the wedding ceremony is probably the best time for a “whole group” photo shoot that wedding guests can participate in. Also, it is the usual time for family shoots and requested bridal party photos. It should be arranged in advance to avoid any confusion, so you and your guests can sit back and enjoy the party. That’s the moment you’ll be fully aware of the camera, looking straight into the camera. It’ll be the most traditional portraits I’ll be taking during the wedding. But that doesn’t mean they are less important to me than the rest of the artistic, candid shots.
During the drinks and reception, I’ll be lurking around, capturing emotions and fun moments. It’s a good time for any additional photoshoots with the other family groups or your friends.
Before dinner, or shortly after, depending on sunset time, you shall reserve some time for an intimate portrait session. Sometimes it might be worthwhile to skip the extra dessert for the beautiful photos you’ll appreciate for years to come. A session usually lasts 15 to 30 minutes. Just go with the flow and trust your photographer. It also gives you a short and possibly the only break from the wedding guests. I will guide you a little and encourage you to focus on yourselves.
After that, it is time for the party! I usually cover from the first dance to supper. It’s a fun part; I love shooting happy people in dance motion. And, this is the last stage I’ll be with you. Great memories, I do hope, stay as vibrant as photos for years to come.
Radoslaw Rachwal
Elopement is easy to understand when you flip the coin and redefine why you got married in the first place. It’s all about how you want to spend your big day together. Your moments should not be forced by what you “have to” do, but should instead be focused on your own needs.
Elopement ideas are far from the traditional wedding routine, often seen in distant places, with epic views. Also, sometimes less is more. I love the forest and its connection with nature. But maybe you prefer an elopement in a city? Hiking, getting hair messy, and getting dirty boots. Having all available sports activities may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Now you have to ask yourself: how do you want to spend your day with your partner?
This definition is what I believe elopement is all about. Look into the open, unwritten book you are about to write a page in. Elopement can be super fancy, with a beautiful wedding dress. You get the hassle of climbing to some viewpoint, an epic place in Scotland. That’s great if this is what YOU want. Elopement can be in the back of your garden, Glasgow or the centre of Edinburgh and be just as beautiful as a day on the Isle of Skye. It’s your story, your connection. Make it unique.