It was a Taylor & Broome thing..

Welcome to another beautiful Yorkshire wedding story. As a wedding photographer with over 25 years of experience capturing special moments across York, Leeds, Harrogate, and the Yorkshire Dales, I love sharing these real love stories. Whether you are planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, I hope this post gives you plenty of inspiration for your own big day.

What made Samantha and Malcolm’s wedding day truly unforgettable?

From the moment I met Sam and Malcolm at Kirkstall Abbey for their pre-wedding shoot, I knew their day would be something special. Their relaxed and fun nature, combined with their personal touches, made their wedding a heartfelt celebration right here in beautiful Yorkshire.

Why is a pre-wedding photoshoot so valuable?

Pre-wedding shoots are a brilliant way for us to get comfortable together before the big day. They help ease nerves, build trust, and give me the chance to capture natural moments without the pressure of the wedding timeline. Sam and Malcolm were naturals, which led to some of my favourite black and white images.

Where did the wedding preparations begin and what was the vibe like?

The day started at the Mercure Hotel in Bingley, where I captured all the excitement and candid moments of Sam getting ready. There’s something magical about those early hours filled with anticipation and laughter. Sam’s makeup was done by Laura Angel, a fantastic artist based near Leeds and Bradford, who really brought out her natural beauty.

How did a tiny caterpillar become a memorable part of the day?

While photographing Sam’s bouquet from Owl House Flowers, a wonderful Yorkshire florist, we spotted a tiny caterpillar – who we affectionately named Fred. It was a charming surprise that added a touch of whimsy to the floral story and made for some unique shots.

Did I nearly spoil any surprises during the morning preparations?

Absolutely! I almost revealed a watch gift for Sam’s dad, Colin, before he’d even received it. Luckily, everyone was understanding, and I quickly switched to photographing his current watch instead. Just one of those funny Yorkshire moments that keep me humble!

What was it like photographing the ceremony at East Riddlesden Hall?

East Riddlesden Hall, near Keighley, is a stunning National Trust venue with beautiful grounds and a rustic barn that provided the perfect backdrop. It was my first time shooting there, and the staff were incredibly helpful, suggesting some great spots for photos. The ceremony was full of emotion and love, making it a real privilege to capture.

How did the entertainment enhance the wedding atmosphere?

The caricature artist, Duncan Storr, brought a playful and light-hearted energy to the celebrations. The group photos were full of laughter and fun, with a few animal appearances adding to the charm. A shout out to Paul Thornton, the solo guitarist from Bradford, whose music beautifully underscored the ceremony and afternoon.

Note to self: when up on the stepladder for group shots, maybe hold back on the jokes and just focus on the picture!

What was the experience like with SMJ Falconry’s birds of prey?

Having SMJ Falconry at the wedding was a real highlight. These majestic birds are breathtaking, and it was a first for me to be up close with birds of prey. Capturing their flight and presence added a unique element to the day, even if I did embarrass myself by asking Malcolm if he wanted a photo with one perched on his arm!

How was the wedding catering and what stood out?

The Hog and Apple provided a delicious meal, with a standout steak pie served alongside mash and seasonal vegetables. I was so focused on photographing the rings that I forgot to snap my own plate – a rare miss for me! Sam and Malcolm were thoughtful in making sure everyone was well looked after.

What made the speeches and cake cutting memorable?

The speeches were a wonderful mix of laughter and heartfelt moments. Nick’s hilarious Tinder story had everyone chuckling, and the cake from Aunty P’s was a true masterpiece, almost too beautiful to eat. I managed to resist temptation, but just barely!

Where did we take the couple portraits and why did they work so well?

After the ceremony, we made the most of East Riddlesden Hall’s stunning grounds for the couple’s portraits. Thanks to their confidence from the pre-wedding shoot, Sam and Malcolm were relaxed and natural in front of the camera, resulting in some fantastic images that truly show their personalities.

How did the day conclude with the first dance and twilight photos?

The day flew by, and soon it was time for the cake cutting and first dance. The New Vintage Band got everyone on their feet, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere. To finish, we headed out for some twilight shots in unique locations I had scouted earlier, with Sam arriving by golf buggy – a fun and practical touch that added something special to the photos.

What is my lasting impression from photographing Sam and Malcolm’s Yorkshire wedding?

Weddings like this remind me why I love my job so much. The blend of heartfelt moments, laughter, charming details, and even a few unexpected wildlife encounters made it a day full of character and joy. Thank you, Sam and Malcolm, for trusting me to capture your story and for being such a pleasure to work with.

Ben x (and of course Nibbs, aka Neil)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do you recommend pre-wedding photoshoots?

They help couples relax in front of the camera and build a good rapport with me. This means less nerves on the wedding day and more natural, genuine photos.

What makes East Riddlesden Hall a great wedding venue?

Its beautiful grounds and rustic barn provide stunning backdrops for photos. The staff are welcoming and helpful, making it a fantastic choice for couples wanting a classic Yorkshire wedding setting.

How do you handle unexpected moments during a wedding?

I embrace them with humour and flexibility, seeing these moments as part of the unique story of the day. Whether it’s a surprise caterpillar or a near spoiled gift, these add character to the memories.

Why is capturing bridal preparations important?

These photos document the excitement and anticipation before the ceremony, capturing little details and emotions that are often overlooked but are vital to the wedding story.

What advice do you have for couples planning their wedding photography?

Plan for relaxed portrait time and consider a pre-wedding shoot. Choose locations that are meaningful or visually striking, and most importantly, be yourselves to get authentic and heartfelt images.

If you’re planning your Yorkshire wedding and want to chat about photography, I’d love to hear from you. Whether your venue is a grand country house in North Yorkshire or a stylish city spot in Leeds, I’ll make sure every special moment is beautifully captured.

If you are ready to start planning your Yorkshire wedding photography, I would love to hear from you. Get in touch today and let us have a relaxed chat about your wedding day. Whether you are getting married at a grand country house in North Yorkshire or a stylish city venue in Leeds, I will make sure every precious moment is captured beautifully.