BOURNEMOUTH WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

Relaxed, natural wedding photography across Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch and the South Coast

Bride and groom laughing together during relaxed wedding portraits in Bournemouth

WHATS MY STYLE …

My reportage style of photography focuses on the story and flow of your wedding day, for those who value natural, spontaneous coverage.

If you’re looking for a Bournemouth wedding photographer who keeps things relaxed, captures the real moments, and doesn’t turn your day into a photoshoot you’re in the right place. I’m Joe, a documentary style wedding photographer based in Dorset, photographing natural wedding photos Bournemouth and the surrounding coast. You’ll get natural, joyful images, gentle direction when you need it, and a calm presence that helps everything run smoothly  from prep to the dancefloor.

 

  • Full-day storytelling coverage (prep → first dance)
  • A private online gallery to share
  • Natural couple portraits without the awkward posing
  • Clear communication and planning support
Dorset wedding photographer at Rhienfield House Hotel

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT …

If you’re after a boring Bournemouth wedding photographer who gets awkward around lots of people… I’m probably not your guy.

I’m relaxed, confident, and genuinely love being around people. No stiff posing, no fake smiles, and definitely no cringe. I blend in with your guests, keep things easy, and capture the laughs, reactions, and those brilliant little moments you didn’t even realise were happening.

Fun energy, real moments, and photos that feel exactly like your day.

"humour and friendliness really puts you at ease"

“Joe was excellent. I cannot recommend him enough. His manner is great – his humour and friendliness really puts you at ease and definitely added to the vibe of our wedding day (as you do spend a lot of the day with your photographer!) His photos are brilliant. He is a preferred supplier to many venues for a good reason! Do not hesitate to book Joe. You will not regret it!” Dorset wedding photographer.

"he is so easy to get on with and made my day perfect"

“One of my best decisions about my wedding was the photographer I chose! I am over the moon with my wedding pictures!! Joe has such an artistic way, with his forward thinking and planning when the heavens opened up and we faced all the elements he still produced some amazing and different photos, he is so easy to get on with and made my day perfect, he captured some beautiful moments especially of my candlelit ceremony. Thank you so much, can’t thank you enough – next will be my baby photos!!!  xxx” Alicia Matthews, Bournemouth, Dorset.

"It honestly felt like having a friend photographing our wedding"

“Not only is Joe a great wedding photographer Dorset but he’s a great guy. It honestly felt like having a friend photographing our wedding. He was equally comfortable joking with the groomsmen as he was helping out our bridesmaid in the middle of a panic attack after her dress split! We are so happy we chose Joe and he played a huge part in delivering our perfect day. Thank you.” – Annie Westerby, London

"Everyone loved him. It was like having a friend at the wedding"

“Joe was truly amazing. He put us all at ease for the whole day. Everyone loved him. It was like having a friend at the wedding. I know that the pictures will be prefect. Thank you so much!! I can’t wait to see the album photos!! Would highly recommend Joe to anyone!! Thank you again”  – Chelsea Ann Kumar, North, London

"even got my daughter smiling"

“We know from the moment we met joe we wanted him to be are wedding photographer he was friendly made everyone feel at ease and just amazing to be with we can not recommend him enough are guest said how great he was he even got my daughter smiling for the camera witch don’t happen often thank again joe.” – Vicky Beesley, Ferndown, wedding photographer Dorset.

"there is not one that we don’t absolutely love"

“Thank you so much Joe for your wonderful wedding photography. Looking back over the photographs, there is not one that we don’t absolutely love. The day was perfect and you captured so many amazing memories for us and our families/friends. You were so attentive and made everyone in the wedding party feel at ease all day. I would recommend Joe as a wedding photographer in a heartbeat.” – Alice & Matt Bevis, Poole Wedding Photographer Dorset

"bringing smiles and personality"

“Oh my goodness we absolutely love the wedding photos you have put up!!!! I would just like to say thank you so much for being our wedding photographer! You have been an absolute star. So professional! But not only that you made every one feel at ease, bringing smiles and personality too. Everyone commented on how lovely you are!! I will be recommending you to everyone I know. Thank you so much for being part of our special day!!” – Sarah Fisher, Bournemouth wedding photographer, Dorset.

IT’A ALL ABOUT CAPTURING THOSE SPECIAL MOMENTS…

My job is to catch all the good stuff without getting in the way — the big laughs, the emotional hugs, the questionable dance moves, and those blink-and-you-miss-them moments happening in the background.

I shoot from a distance, keep things relaxed, and let your wedding day unfold naturally. As a Bournemouth wedding photographer, I’m there to tell the story as it actually happened, not to stop it every five minutes for a photo.

The result? Photos that feel real, bring back the atmosphere, and still make you smile years down the line.

Bride laughing at speech

I’M HAPPY TO TRAVEL

I’m a Bournemouth wedding photographer based in Dorset and fully mobile, regularly photographing weddings across Bournemouth and the surrounding areas.

From beach celebrations around Bournemouth, Southbourne and the Corfe area, where I spend a lot of time, to relaxed venues in Poole, Christchurch and the New Forest, I know how to make the most of every location. Coastal locations are very much my thing, but I’m just as comfortable shooting woodland weddings surrounded by trees.

Planning something a little further afield? No problem at all, travel is never an issue.

wedding day sparklers

Recommended by many outstanding wedding venues.

Bride & Groom running and having fun

DID SOMEONE SAY FUN…

Let your hair down and have fun on your wedding day.

I love having fun with my bride and groom as it  allows you to truly enjoy one of the most memorable days of your life. As a Bournemouth wedding photographer, I know that when couples are relaxed and in the moment, it leads to more authentic and joyful memories. This not only makes the day more special for you but also helps me capture natural, beautiful photos that reflect your true happiness. Your positive energy will spread to your guests, making the celebration even more enjoyable for everyone involved!  Looking for  wedding photography Dorset & South Coast.

Ok! sometimes it can go a bit to far…..

Bride and groom sunset

Want something special …

Your wedding day can be pretty intense, I always offer my couples the oppotunity to take some time out as a newly married couple to capture something truly stunning.

Taking time out for photos on your wedding day is a romantic way to pause and savour the moment together amidst all the excitement. It gives you the chance to step away from the crowd, reconnect, and reflect on the significance of the day as a couple. As a Dorset wedding photographer, I capture these intimate moments in beautiful settings, resulting in stunning, emotional images that you’ll treasure forever.

Wedding photographer Dorset
Couples time out wedding photography
Bournemouth wedding photographer
Bride and groom portrait
Dorset wedding photographer
Bournemouth wedding photographer
Kingston Country Courtyard recommended photographer
Italian villa recommended photographer
Kings arms hotel recommended

“My laid-back approach helps even the most camera-shy couples feel comfortable in front of my lens”.

As both a Dorset wedding photographer and videographer, my laid-back approach helps even the most camera-shy couples feel comfortable in front of my lens. This allows me to create beautiful, artistic wedding photos and videos that truly capture the essence of your day. My reputation for producing incredible images and working closely with some of the top wedding venues in the South (and even the country) ensures your wedding day will be captured perfectly.

Recommended by
THE ITALIAN VILLA

The Italian Villa in Poole, Dorset, is an exceptional wedding venue for photography due to its stunning blend of elegance and picturesque surroundings. The villa’s beautifully landscaped gardens, with vibrant flowers, tranquil water features, and perfectly manicured lawns, provide breath taking backdrops for romantic shots.

The Italian Villa Poole Dorset

Recommended by
THE ORANGERY SUITE

The Orangery Suite in Wimborne is a seriously cool wedding venue for photos, effortlessly stylish, a little bit hidden, and full of character. Tucked away in a private walled garden, it’s got that secret garden vibe that makes every shot feel extra special. For any Dorset wedding photographer, it’s a total win. Whether you’re going for romantic, playful, or straight-up cool, this place has the kind of laid-back beauty that just works, no filter needed.

Orangery Suite Wimborne wedding venue

Recommended by
KINGSTON COUNTRY COURTYARD

The Kings Arms Hotel in Christchurch offers an amazing, relaxed atmosphere for Dorset wedding photographers to capture stunning images. The historic charm of nearby ruins and picturesque surroundings, not to mention the leave tunnel, creating beautiful backdrop, perfect for your special day. With beautifully manicured gardens and stunning views of Christchurch Priory, this venue provides natural, elegant settings that enhance every shot.

Kings Arms hotel Christchurch, bride and groom dancing

Recommended by
BARTLEY LODGE

Bartley Lodge in the New Forest has that irresistible mix of charm and mischief that wedding photographers secretly adore. From the grand sweep of the driveway to the cosy, character packed rooms inside, the whole place feels like it’s just begging to be photographed. Step outside and you’re hit with those dreamy woodland views, perfectly manicured gardens, and that “wow, this is actually our wedding day” kind of backdrop. It’s romantic, a little wild, effortlessly stylish, basically, a photographer’s playground where every corner gives you another gorgeous shot.

Kings Arms hotel Christchurch, bride and groom dancing

Recommended by
KINGS ARMS HOTEL CHRISTCHURCH

Kingston Country Courtyard is a fantastic wedding venue for photography due to its charming rustic atmosphere and stunning countryside location. Nestled in the heart of the Dorset countryside, the venue offers panoramic views of the Purbeck Hills, providing a breathtaking natural backdrop for photography.

Kings Arms hotel Christchurch, bride and groom dancing

Trusted by
THE LARMER TREE

The Larmer Tree wedding venue is a dream location for any Dorset wedding photographer. With enchanting gardens, ornate pavilions, and stunning exotic architecture, it offers a wealth of unique, picture-perfect backdrops. The lush greenery, charming peacocks, and historic structures like the Roman Temple create a magical, fairy tale like setting for capturing unforgettable wedding photos. For couples looking for a Dorset wedding photographer, this venue provides the ideal blend of natural beauty and architectural elegance, ensuring breath taking photography on their special day.

Larmer tree wedding photography

SOPLEY MILL

Sopley Mill is a fantastic wedding venue for stunning photography, making it a top choice for any Dorset wedding photographer or Bournemouth wedding photographer. Set beside the Avon River, this beautifully restored mill offers charming rustic interiors and picturesque outdoor spaces, providing a variety of unique photo opportunities. With its exposed brickwork, wooden beams, and scenic riverside views, Sopley Mill creates the perfect backdrop for capturing natural, timeless wedding photos. For couples seeking a Dorset or Bournemouth wedding photographer, this venue offers endless possibilities for breathtaking images on their special day.

Sopley Mill Dorset & Bournemouth wedding photography

HIGHCLIFFE CASTLE

Highcliffe Castle is an exceptional wedding venue, perfect for capturing breath taking photography. Its grand architecture, beautiful gardens, and stunning sea views provide a magical backdrop for any Dorset wedding photographer or Bournemouth wedding photographer. The castle’s elegant interiors, with high ceilings and intricate details, offer timeless photo opportunities, while the coastal scenery adds a romantic touch. For couples seeking a Dorset or Bournemouth wedding photographer, Highcliffe Castle’s blend of historic charm and natural beauty ensures unforgettable wedding photos.

Highcliffe castle wedding photography in Christchurch

TICKLED PIG, WIMBOURNE

The Tickled Pig in Wimborne is a fantastic choice for a wedding reception, especially for photography. Its rustic charm, cozy interiors, and delightful garden spaces provide a relaxed yet stylish setting, ideal for capturing intimate and natural moments. For any Dorset wedding photographer or Bournemouth wedding photographer, the combination of farm-to-table cuisine, warm lighting, and charming décor offers a perfect backdrop for photos.

Dorset Wedding photographer

MILTON ABBEY, MILTON ABBAS

Getting married at Milton Abbey is a jaw dropping choice, particularly for photography. This stunning venue combines historic architecture with beautiful grounds, providing a variety of picturesque backdrops for any Dorset wedding photographer or Bournemouth wedding photographer. The magnificent abbey, with its stunning stained glass windows and tranquil grounds, creates a romantic atmosphere perfect for capturing timeless wedding photos.

Milton Abbey wedding photography

Recommended by

ENGLISH OAK VINEYARD

Getting married at English Oak Vineyard is a truly enchanting experience, especially for photography. Nestled in the picturesque countryside, this venue offers stunning views of lush vineyards and rolling hills, creating a breath taking backdrop for any Dorset wedding photographer or Bournemouth wedding photographer. The rustic charm of the vineyard, combined with its elegant event spaces, allows couples to capture both intimate moments and grand celebrations.

Couple at the English Oak Vineyard in Dorset

Need an experienced Dorset wedding photographer & or videographer?

Dorset wedding photographer
Groomsmen having fun

Looking for a Bournemouth wedding photographer?

Wedding photographer Dorset
wedding photography Bournemouth

If you are looking for a wedding photographer…

I am happy to meet with prospective couples to discuss your specific requirements and for you to view my portfolios.

Rest assured I will be there to capture all the special moments on your big day, from Bridal preparations right through to the first dance.
View my wedding photography packages

Dorset wedding photographer
brides flowers and shoes

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you cover weddings outside Bournemouth?

Yes, absolutely. While I photograph lots of weddings in Bournemouth, I’m Dorset-based and fully mobile, so I also regularly work across Poole, Christchurch, Wimborne, the New Forest and the wider South Coast. If your venue is a little further afield, that’s never a problem just let me know.

What’s your photography style like on the day?

My style is documentary at heart real moments, genuine reactions and lots of laughter. I’m very big on rapport and keeping things relaxed, always up for a joke to help everyone feel comfortable. I’ll give gentle direction when needed, but there’s no stiff posing or awkward moments, just you being yourselves and enjoying the day.

How many photos do we receive and will we get black & white images too?

On a typical wedding day, couples usually receive between 400–500 images, covering everything from morning preparations right through to the evening celebrations. Alongside the colour images, you’ll also receive a selection of black and white photographs. All images are delivered in high resolution via a private online gallery that’s easy to view, download and share.

We’re camera shy, will it feel awkward?

Lots of couples say this, and it’s never an issue. I’m very relaxed, friendly and always keen to keep things light, which helps my couples forget about the camera pretty quickly, plus the majority of photo are taken without you even noticing as I work with a long lens allowing me to stay hidden. I use simple prompts rather than poses and keep things flowing, so it feels more like hanging out than having your photo taken.

Can you recommend good photo spots around Bournemouth?

Definitely. Whether it’s coastal backdrops, gardens, nearby viewpoints or quieter tucked-away spots, I know Bournemouth and the surrounding areas well. I’ll always suggest locations that suit your venue, timing and vibe without pulling you away from your guests for ages.

Next steps

To see some stunning wedding photos, visit my portfolio page, or to view full wedding stories, take a look at my rocommended weddings page.

I’m always happy to meet with prospective wedding couples to chat through your plans in more detail and show you full galleries. You can get in touch via my contact page, or simply give me a call or text on 07814 720 258,  just remember to include your wedding date so I can check availability.

Book your Bournemouth photographer today

Looking for a relaxed wedding photographer?

Get in touch today.

 

Don’t hesitate to get in touch to check your date is still available, you can call or text me on 07814 720 258 or use the contact form below. If you haven’t received a reply within 6 hours please check your spam folder.

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