These are some frequently asked questions that come up in conversation. If you have any queries that are not listed below, please do not hesitate to contact me as I appreciate there is so much to think about when choosing your photographer.
Q: What is documentary wedding photography?
A: Documentary wedding photography is all about capturing real moments as they happen, rather than directing or staging them. My approach is unobtrusive and focused on telling the genuine story of your wedding day, from the excitement of getting ready through to the celebrations on the dance floor. Drawing on my documentary and editorial photography background, I anticipate moments before they unfold, allowing me to capture authentic emotions, natural interactions and the small details that make your wedding unique. While much of the day is photographed candidly and without interruption, I’ll also make time for the important family group photographs and relaxed couple portraits, ensuring you receive a complete collection of images that beautifully reflects both the atmosphere and the key moments of your day.
Q: Why should we choose an experienced wedding photographer?
A: Your wedding day can’t be repeated, which is why experience matters. Having photographed weddings for many years and with a background in documentary and editorial photography, I’m able to anticipate important moments before they happen and adapt quickly to changing situations, lighting and weather conditions. Experience allows me to capture genuine emotions, natural interactions and all the important moments of your day with confidence and consistency, ensuring nothing important is missed.
Q: Have you photographed weddings at our venue before?
A: I’ve photographed weddings at many venues throughout Staffordshire, the Midlands and across the UK. If I’ve worked at your venue before, I’ll already have a good understanding of the best locations for photographs, lighting conditions and how the day typically flows. If your venue is new to me, I always arrive fully prepared and use my experience to make the most of every location. My focus is never just on the venue itself but on capturing the moments, people and atmosphere that make your wedding unique.
Q: We don’t feel comfortable in front of the camera. Can you help?
A: Absolutely. In fact, most couples tell me they feel exactly the same way. My relaxed documentary approach means you’re not expected to spend hours posing or performing for the camera. Instead, I focus on creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience, allowing you to be yourselves while I capture natural moments and genuine interactions. For couple portraits, I’ll offer simple guidance when needed, helping you feel relaxed and confident without awkward posing.
Q: What makes your wedding photography different?
A: My photography combines documentary storytelling, editorial experience and a relaxed approach to weddings. Rather than focusing solely on posed photographs, I capture the real moments that tell the story of your day – the laughter, emotion, excitement and connections between family and friends. At the same time, I understand the importance of beautiful portraits and family photographs. With over 100 five-star Google reviews, couples often choose me because they want natural, timeless wedding photography that captures both the big moments and the smaller details that might otherwise be forgotten.
Q: Do you photograph weddings throughout Staffordshire and the Midlands?
A: Yes, absolutely. While I’m based in Staffordshire and regularly photograph weddings throughout the Midlands, I also travel across the UK and internationally for destination weddings. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of documenting weddings at many beautiful venues throughout Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Shropshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire and the wider Midlands region, as well as further afield across the country.
Whether you’re looking for a Staffordshire wedding photographer, a Midlands wedding photographer, coverage anywhere in the UK, or a destination wedding photographer for your celebration abroad, my documentary approach remains the same. My focus is on capturing genuine moments, authentic emotions and the complete story of your wedding day through natural, timeless photography that reflects how your day truly felt.
Q: How do we book you for our date?
A: To book me for your big day I would ask for a £250 deposit and then all you would need to do is complete the online booking form, which forms the basis of our contract. I would then confirm all your details in writing for you. I work on a first come first served basis.
Confirm A Booking
Q: What does the payment schedule look like?
A: You would have paid your deposit when initially booking me as your photographer, this leaves the remaining balance which would be due a few weeks before the big day, normally around the time of our pre wedding zoom meeting.
Q: Do you have insurance?
A: Jon Thorne Wedding Photography is fully insured with both professional indemnity and public liability.
Q: How many images will we receive?
A: Every couples day is different re coverage. However, on average, you will receive between 450-550 images on your fully edited image gallery.
Q: Do we receive the copyright release?
A: Although you do not own the copyright for the images as the copyright by law is with the photographer, you will certainly have access to all the high-resolution images whenever you need accessible from your client gallery for printing or sharing. If required, you can also order archival quality prints directly from your gallery which are produced on the highest quality photographic papers, likewise, you also have options to order framed products.
Q: What equipment do you use?
A: I use a wide variety of equipment throughout the big day and into the evening, mainly Nikon cameras and lenses, as well as Profoto lighting... there is always a backup kit, just in case!
Q: How long will it take us to receive our images?
A: You will receive your fully edited, secure image gallery, no more than 3-4 weeks after the big day.
Q: Do you offer engagement sessions?
A: I do offer engagement sessions these can be added to your collection and cost £350 This can be discussed on meeting.
Q: How far will you travel?
A: I travel wherever required to shoot a wedding. I’m based in Staffordshire but have photographed weddings all over the UK and abroad.
Q: Are you a full time, professional wedding photographer?
A: I am a full-time photographer. It's not a part time job to make a few extra pounds, I put all my time and effort & heart into my business, I love it!
Q: Do you offer weekday discount?
A: I offer a weekday collection (Mon-Thurs) with coverage from Bridal preparation through to your First Dance for £1450 saving £200.
Q: Do you offer videography?
A: Yes, subject to availability I can offer a great value collection including both your photography and videography requirements. I work very closely with a fabulous videographer, Laura, who works in a similar way to me, so we make a great team.
A: Yes. I will contact you approximately a month before your wedding to arrange a convenient time for our pre wedding zoom meeting. This is a perfect opportunity to go over the itinerary for the big day and also it's lovely to see you both again before your wedding.
A: Absolutely. I feel it's so important to create that wonderful family heirloom. You can choose a collection that includes a beautiful storybook (details can be seen on my pricing page), or I can also offer a wide range of bespoke handmade albums or storybooks, details on request.
