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Why I Don’t Shoot Weddings (and What I Do Instead)

05/11/2025 Posted by Martin Bamford Ideas, Photography

People are often surprised when I tell them I don’t shoot weddings.

“But you’re a photographer!” they say, as if it’s a compulsory part of the job, like wearing a black shirt and shouting “one more for luck.” I get it.

Weddings are glamorous, emotional, and full of stories. As a photographer, they can be incredibly lucrative.

They’re also loud, frantic, and often involve someone’s uncle telling you how to do your job. I’ve done a few in the past, and I can tell you this: they’re not my thing.

The truth is, I’m not built for twelve-hour days of emotional chaos, tight schedules, and managing everyone from bridesmaids to caterers.

I’m not the guy who thrives on drama, confetti, and speeches that go on too long.

I like calm, I like connection, and I like spending time helping people feel comfortable in front of the camera. You don’t get a lot of that during a wedding day.

Wedding photography is a very specific skill. It’s about storytelling under pressure, balancing a hundred moving parts, and capturing every detail as it unfolds in real time.

I have nothing but respect for the photographers who love it and do it well. But for me, I realised early on that my real interest lies elsewhere.

What I love is photographing people when they’re being themselves. No scripts, no performance, no chaos. Just real people in real moments.

That’s what drew me into portrait and branding photography. It’s slower, more intentional, and far more personal.

Instead of trying to keep up with a timetable, I get to slow things down, build trust, and create something that feels genuine.

In a portrait session, we have time to breathe. We can chat, experiment, and find the version of you that feels most natural.

There’s no pressure to please a crowd or meet anyone’s expectations. It’s just you, me, and the process of capturing who you really are.

The same goes for my branding photography.

I love helping small business owners and creatives tell their stories visually. I get to translate their personality and values into images that actually mean something.

It’s not just about headshots; it’s about creating a sense of identity.

I’ve worked with personal trainers, financial advisers, artists, and entrepreneurs, and every shoot is completely different. It’s creative, collaborative, and full of purpose.

When I’m not working with clients, you’ll often find me out in the fields and woods at Knowle Park, where I work part-time as a ranger.

I spend my mornings checking the ditches, planting trees, or talking to volunteers. That slower rhythm suits me perfectly. It’s the same energy I bring to my photography. I want people to feel grounded and comfortable, not rushed or staged.

I also spend time supporting local charities, community groups, and events. I’ve always believed photography should serve people, not just sell to them. That’s why I’m drawn to projects that feel meaningful.

Whether I’m documenting a community event or creating portraits for a charity campaign, I care more about connection and story than spectacle.

So, no, I don’t shoot weddings. You won’t see me sprinting between the bride and groom, juggling flashes, and trying to stop someone’s aunt from photobombing the first kiss.

I’d rather spend that time creating portraits that help people see themselves in a new light, or branding images that make a business come alive.

If you’re after photographs that feel honest, human, and full of life, I’m your guy.

If you want someone to follow you around all day with a long lens while dodging cake and confetti, I know a few great wedding photographers I can recommend.

But if what you want is a relaxed, enjoyable session that’s all about you, your story, and the way you want to be seen – drop me a line.

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About Martin Bamford

I’m Martin Bamford, the guy who makes people forget they hate being photographed. Portraits, brands, events. I shoot it all in and around Cranleigh, Surrey. Book now and let’s create images that make you say, “Is that really me?” (Spoiler: yes, it is.)

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