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Frequently Asked Questions

Bridesmaids and flower girl before St Luke's Bombed Out Church wedding photography

Do you want to know more about the ins and outs of booking me?

Here are some of the most common questions I get from couples. If you still can’t find the answer you’re looking for, fill in the contact form at the bottom of the page or email justin@justingouldingphotography.com.

First things first

We like your style. What do we do next?

Thanks very much. The next step is to get in touch – let me know when and where you’re getting married and hopefully I’m available. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask.

Our wedding isn't in Manchester. Does that matter?

Not at all. I love exploring new places and I’ve shot weddings all over the UK and even abroad. My travel costs are included in my prices for UK weddings.

When do we need to book?

Couples usually book their photographer at least 12 months before their wedding, and sometimes even two or three years ahead. It’s never too early, so it pays to be organised. Contact me to check my availability.

How much do you charge?

My prices start at £795 – you can find more details on my pricing page. As a carbon negative business, I offer discounts for eco-friendly weddings. Just ask for more information.

Do we need to pay a deposit?

Yes. I ask for £250 by bank transfer to secure the booking, and the remainder of the balance no later than six weeks before your wedding.

On the day

What exactly is documentary photography?

Documentary photography is candid, unposed photography which captures things exactly as they are. I love this style of photography – whether it is on the street, with families or at weddings. In my eyes, people and how they interact are interesting enough on their own without manufacturing moments. And, most importantly, it’s way more fun for you to enjoy your wedding day as it happens – not how a photographer thinks it should be. Find out more about my style.

I don’t like having my photo taken

You’re not alone – most people don’t, me included. But I’ve worked with enough couples to know that you’ll be so busy having an amazing time on your wedding day that you soon won’t care. Those wrinkles around your eyes when you’re laughing out loud? Miles better than an Instagram pout, trust me.

Will you tell us where to stand and what to do?

You’ve probably realised by now that that’s not how I roll. I prefer to let things happen naturally because a genuine moment is much more memorable than a pre-planned one. In fact, I’d say 99% of my photos are completely unposed. I may occasionally point you in the right direction of some good light that could make a great photo, and any time we spend on couple portraits is super relaxed.

Can you cover both the bride AND groom getting ready?

If you’re getting ready in the same place or nearby, yes. If you’re in different places or you want full coverage of both the girls and the guys getting ready from start to finish, most couples ask for a second shooter. Not only are they really useful during bride and groom prep, but they can also capture moments throughout the day from different angles. I know lots of brilliant photographers, so I can find one who matches my style. You can find more details on my pricing page.

Do you take family group photos?

Of course. I’m more than happy to take some group shots if you’d like them. But one piece of advice I always give couples is group photos can take much longer than you think – you’d be surprised how tricky it is get dozens of people to stand where you want them, especially after a couple of drinks 😉

My friend has a pretty good camera - could they not take our wedding photos?

They could – and they might take a few great images. But the fact you’re looking at my website suggests you value great photography. Taking a few snaps at a wedding is very different to specialising in documentary photography and being passionate about telling your story through memorable, meaningful images. None of the couples who have hired me have regretted their investment. Plus your friend can fully enjoy the wedding as a guest. Here’s more info on my style of shooting.

Do we need to provide a meal for you?

Not at all. I’m more than happy to bring my own food, so you don’t have to worry about feeding me.

After the wedding

How many photos will we get?

That depends which package you book, but a full day’s coverage usually means several hundred high-resolution photos. These are available in a secure online gallery. Some photographers outsource their editing, but I edit every image in my signature style. Check out my latest weddings to see what I mean.

When will we receive our photos?

I aim to send you the full gallery within six weeks of your wedding, although it’s often quicker than that. Editing and curating takes much, much longer than the actual wedding.

What can we do with the photos?

All the photos are yours to print and share as many times as you like. The copyright always belongs to the photographer (unless you’re this monkey), so if you’d like to use any images for business or commercial purposes, you’d need to contact me first.

What if you’re ill or can’t make our wedding?

It hasn’t happened yet (touch wood), but if I can’t be there because of an emergency or illness, I know lots of top-class photographers who can cover for me.

Are you insured?

Absolutely. I have professional liability and indemnity insurance so you don’t need to worry about that side of things.

Check my availability

    If you’ve got any more questions, you can get in touch on justin@justingouldingphotography.com or 07854 420785.

    “Justin was amazing. He was there early on in the morning, was part of the whole day and worked non-stop!” Emily & Ross