What I Learned: Shooting Videography as a Wedding Guest in Umbria, Italy
I have an exciting story to share with you today, one that involves personal growth, unexpected discoveries, and a dash of humor. Over the past year, I've embarked on a bit of a learning adventure, investing both my time and resources into mastering the art of videography using my professional cameras. Why, you ask? Well, let me take you on a journey through my motivation and the experiences I've had so far.
It all began when some of my commercial photography clients started requesting short video clips for their social media and websites, I felt I needed to be able to capture these simple requests for them but being the perfectionist I am, I had to really master it before helping them.
When I started some of the training it made me think about working alongside videographers at weddings. They tend to pop up in the most heartfelt moments, brandishing massive cameras and making me worry about inadvertently intruding on their shots (which can’t be photoshopped). That's when I had an idea—I could offer something truly unique and valuable to couples by providing a hybrid photography and video service.
Picture this: couples receive the same exceptional photography service they've come to expect from me, but with an added twist. During the moments that usually constitute downtime, I would discreetly capture video snippets, allowing me to craft a professionally shot "highlights video" that encapsulates the essence of their special day. How awesome is that?
You see, back in 2015 when I tied the knot myself, my partner and I hired both a photographer and a videographer. While the videographer's work was excellent, he appeared in a lot of our photos and I must admit that we've only watched our wedding video a couple of times. Why, you ask? Well, let's just say it contained the ENTIRE ceremony (which was in Greek), speeches, and even people chowing down on their meals. It was a feast for the eyes, but perhaps a little too literal! A few minutes would have been more than enough and plenty to satisfy our grandparents who couldn’t make the wedding abroad.
My training journey so far has blended online and in-person courses, lots of reading and hands-on practice. I knew I had a family wedding to attend in Italy, not as a professional photographer, but as a guest! However, I couldn't resist the opportunity to test my skills. With only hand luggage I had to travel light so, just one camera, a single lens, and a trusty waterproof GoPro, I set out to create a short practice "highlight video" as a guest. Don't worry, I made sure to stay well out of the photographers' way!
Guess what? I ended up shooting not one, but TWO different short films. One was in a vertical format, perfect for mobile phones and social media sharing, while the other was in landscape format, longer in duration and ideal for the couple's afterparty celebration and for showcasing on TV screens to their proud grandparents. To add more zest to the films, I even recorded the heartfelt speeches, a touching reading, and the soulful live music on my trusty iPhone. As you can see, I also took a few photos (couldn’t resist!). My Dad took this one of me and Aaron.
Now, let me tell you some lessons I learned during this short and hot filmmaking adventure:
The GoPro turned out to be a bit of a letdown, providing footage that fell short of my expectations. Lesson learned: Stick to the reliable gear you know and love.
Primer is super important for make up in the heat, bonus points for one that contains SPF!
Surprisingly, the iPhone recordings exceeded my expectations, capturing voices with remarkable clarity. If I ever find myself in a pinch without my fancy recording equipment, I'd happily rely on my trusty smartphone again.
Stationary objects are simply not as captivating on film as they are in photographs.
Balancing the roles of guest and aspiring videographer was quite the challenge. I found myself torn between capturing the perfect angle and wholeheartedly immersing myself in the atmosphere. Nonetheless, I managed to enjoy every moment, even if it meant occasionally slipping into "work mode."
The hassle of coordinating sparklers for a few shots was absolutely worth it! The resulting footage added a touch of magic and excitement to the final video, making it an unforgettable moment for the couple.
Now, without further ado, I present to you my very first attempt at a wedding highlights video. I hope you're ready to experience the magic of an Italian wedding.
Click here to watch the 6-minute landscape version (on a computer or TV). (this one is my favorite of the two)
or
Click here to watch the 3 minute horizontal version (on a phone)
As I reflect on my new journey of learning and growth, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to record Hannah and Conor’s wedding and to the trainers who have given some brilliant advice, inspiration and guidance. It's amazing how investing in new skills can open doors and allow us to offer something unique to our clients.
If you're planning your own wedding or know someone who is, I encourage you to consider the possibilities of hybrid photography and videography. By seamlessly blending both art forms, couples can relive their special day through stunning visuals and heartfelt moments captured in motion.
Sarah x
P.S. The beautiful venue Hannah and Conor chose is a large stone farmhouse in the hills of beautiful Umbria, Italy, around 40 minutes from Perugia. It’s called ‘I Casali di Colle San Paulo Fontanelle’. Here are the details if you are looking for an international elopement or destination family wedding. www.collesanpaolo.it or check it out on instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/icasalidicollesanpaolo/
Check out my wedding services page if you are looking for hybrid photography and video, here is the link: Pictorial Photography Wedding Photography
Charlton Hall wedding photography with a serious pink and sparkly party vibe!
Holly and Mike’s wedding at Charlton Hall in Northumberland was the epitome of a party wedding, from start to finish it was all just fun fun fun, the interiors are so cool, it’s such a pleasure to photograph here!
Holly’s dress was from SJ Bridal and her hairpiece by Glorious by Heidi.
The interior decor at Charlton Hall is amazing, something unique and eye catching in every room, a photographers dream!
“Till death do us party”
The girls did a great job posing!
Archie the dog just had to get in on some photo action, what a bari joogle!
You have got to love this reception room, what views!
Holly and Mike chose the amazing balloons from Balloonilicious. Their discoball-themed tablescapes, flowers and styling were by The Whole Schbang and the Illuminated lettering was from Coco Luminaire Prop Hire.
The speeches are one of my favourite parts of a wedding day. I love learning little bits about the couple, especially when I already know the family.
I babysat for Holly when she was a toddler!
Geoffrey the Giraffe is a barrel of laughs.
It’s so much fun to work with interiors like this!
A long awaited wedding photography at Le Petit Chateau, Otterburn
Le Petit Chateau is a stunning hotel and wedding venue in Otterburn, Northumberland. The old hotel has been made to look like a beautiful French chateau inside and has vast dreamy gardens and a lake outside too.
Jade, Matt and their girls waited through covid and a lot of stressful reschedules for their big day but the sun shone for them and boy was it worth the wait.
Here are a few photographs from the getting ready and the ceremony part of the day, check out the gorgeous bridal suite (it has a huge free-standing copper bath!) and the huge French mantelpiece in the ceremony room.
As this was in June 2021, masks still had to be worn during the ceremony. The masks were coordinated with the bridesmaid’s dresses which made them blend in nicely, and luckily the masks could come off when everyone retreated to the gardens.
I spent the whole day at Le Petit Chateau, from Jade getting ready right through until after the dancing.
After the ceremony there were canapes and drinks for the adults, then ice creams and candy floss which were very popular with the children.
I still managed to prize them away from the ice cream for these quick shots!
The afternoon teas were served with edible flowers, they were so pretty and tasted amazing!
Matt gave a great speech to everyone then we went outside for some couple’s photographs of just Jade and Matt.
There was a fire pit in the water?!
The beautiful gardens seemed to go on forever. Lots of the guests took a nice peaceful, romantic walk after their dinner too.
Everyone was back in time for the dancing in the ballroom!
Intimate and Colourful Wedding Photography at Paxton Boat House
Grace & Tom’s wedding was held in early July at the Boathouse which is on the grounds of Paxton House, down by the River Tweed.
With a copper flower arch made by Grace’s father Amos and beautiful flowers supplied by Grace’s friend Liz Ellis, who runs The Meadow Bothy, the wedding had a natural and relaxed feel to it.
Grace made a lot of the decorations and favours, she even baked her own cake!
There are lots of different spots for great photos down at the Boathouse. There are old rustic doors and walls, the salmon fishing boats, the inside of the boathouse with the fairy lights and paper lanterns, beautiful woodland which looks great at every time of year, and the River Tweed itself.
After the ceremony, all the family and friends returned to Ayton Bowling Club for some tasty food by Stewart Brown Catering, drinks, sweeties and dancing into the wee small hours!
I loved the vibrant flowers adding a pop of colour to photos at this wedding, especially the wild strawberries on the groomsmen’s buttonholes. Check out more flowers on her Instagram @themeadowbothy.
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A Magical Tipi Wedding in Bamburgh, Northumberland: Celebrating Amy and Campbell's Love Story
Today, I want to share with you the incredible day I had capturing the magical wedding of Amy and Campbell in the picturesque village of Bamburgh, Northumberland. From the breathtaking views of Bamburgh Castle to the vibrant tipi celebrations, this wedding was a true delight for the senses.
Capturing those precious moments before the ceremony is always a treat. Amy and her bridesmaids chose her parents' house as the perfect setting for their preparations. With the talented makeup artist Eren Saygilier working her magic and the Ministry of Design hairdressers creating stunning hairstyles, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation.
Meanwhile, Campbell and his groomsmen were getting ready above Carters the Butchers, a beloved family establishment in the village. It was a special touch to capture a group photo in front of the butchers, paying homage to the bride's family heritage.
The wedding ceremony took place at St. Aiden's Church in Bamburgh, adding a touch of tradition and elegance to the day. Amy and Campbell embraced the rich history of the region by incorporating a Northumbrian tradition, the coin scatter. The guests' children had a blast joining in this activity, creating a lively atmosphere.
Amy and Cam chose a field in Glororum with breathtaking views of Bamburgh Castle as the setting for their tipi wedding reception. The same field now serves as their glamping site, known as Bamburgh Under Canvas, a beautiful testament to their love story. As their wedding photographer, I had the pleasure of capturing the essence of their business for their website too.
Amy and Campbell's wedding was an extraordinary celebration of love, family, and tradition. The stunning views of Bamburgh Castle, the lively Northumbrian traditions, and the warmth shared by all created an unforgettable experience. As a photographer, it was an honour to capture the beauty, joy, and cherished moments throughout the day. I am grateful to have been a part of their journey and to have documented this incredible day.
If you're ever in the area, don't forget to check out Bamburgh Under Canvas, the couple's glamping site, and experience the magic of this remarkable location for yourself. Cheers to a lifetime of joy and adventure!
You can read more about when I photographed Carters the butcher shop for their website here.
What does a phase 3 of lockdown, 'garden wedding' in Scotland really look like?
Like many others, Amy and Callum’s wedding plans were put on hold due to Covid-19, so when they heard that you could still get married again they arranged something extra special at home for a select few (20 to be precise!).
The current phase 3 rules in Scotland* are:
no more than 20 people should be there (including any children)
this includes the couple, witnesses, guests and anyone employed by the couple, such as a photographer
it does not include the person doing the ceremony or staff at a venue such as hospitality staff
everyone should follow physical distancing rules
there's no limit on how many households can attend
It was hardly noticeable as it seems quite the norm now but everyone kept their distance and stayed in their household/family groups, hand sanitiser was used by anyone going into the house and anyone signing the register (the witnesses and Amy and Callum) had to use separate pens, no biggie.
It was really easy to follow those rules in the garden, everyone was so relaxed and the sun was shining it was a wonderfully joyful day with so many special moments to be treasured.
Right after the ceremony, Callum took Amy for their first dance on the lawn and then everyone else joined in, it was so beautiful and great fun! Amy hadn’t managed to have her dress altered because of the lockdown but she managed just fine by scooping it up.
Each family group had a ‘formal’ photograph taken and we did manage a group picture with everyone.
We then escaped around the side of the house for a few bride and groom portraits with Rollo the wire haired Hungarian vizsla who loved to pose.
Aside from the rules, Amy and Callum’s wedding was one of pure happiness and joy, I am so honoured that they included me as one of their 20 allowed people.
This wedding looked friendly but it had entertainment that the guests would fight over!
I’ve been dreaming of beautiful sunny weddings and am missing special locations like Hulne Abbey in Alnwick which is so stunning on a summers day, perfect for a secluded and private family wedding.
Fab bit of broomstick training back at Alnwick Castle after the ceremony for all those Harry Potter fans!
Helen, Richard and guests dined in the Guest Hall with a bit of dancing before returning home to Newcastle safely tucked up on the coach.
A Joyful Celebration: Mel and James' Fun, Informal Wedding After-Party at Marshall Meadows Manor House Hotel in Berwick upon Tweed
Mel and James celebrated their wedding with a fun, informal after-party at the wonderful Marshall Meadows Manor House Hotel in Berwick upon Tweed. Having tied the knot in Brighton a few weeks earlier, this gathering was a delightful opportunity for the couple to share their happiness with loved ones from home.
Hidden just north of Berwick, Marshall Meadows’ breathtaking natural beauty and historic charm set the stage for family and friends to come together to celebrate Mel and James.
I tried to capture every heartfelt moment of this after-party celebration. From the beaming smiles of the couple as they mingled with guests, to the playful children with their bubble wands, each snapshot shows the genuine love and happiness shared by all.
As a wedding photographer, capturing such special moments is an honour and a privilege. If you're looking for a professional photographer to document your own wedding or special event in Berwick upon Tweed or its surrounding areas, please don't hesitate to reach out. Let's create everlasting memories together!
The best way to get in touch with me is to book a telephone call by using the button below.
Or if you want to learn more about my wedding and party packages and pricing, visit the weddings page.
This bride really didn’t want wedding photos at her tipi wedding in Norham.
Thank goodness her soon-to-be mother-in-law had a word in her ear!
Take a look through some of the photos from Laura and Norm’s June tipi wedding in Norham, it was the biggest tipi I have been in so far with peaks plus another for the catering tent.
P.S. Check out the evening sky at the end too, just as I left it was stunning.
Anne and Simon's Sunny May Wedding at St Anne's Church, Ancroft
Thinking back to when sunny weekends were for hugging loved ones and dancing with friends without fear. I can’t wait for those times to return, I think we will appreciate them so much more.
I was delighted when Simon and Anne asked me to photograph their wedding last year because they are a lovely couple and I’ve always wanted to visit the 11th-century church in Ancroft.
St Anne’s is quite a unique church, built at the end of the 11th Century by the Holy Island monks. There are views of Bamburgh and Holy Island from the church on a clear day and it has the most fantastic big red tree in the centre of the churchyard.
The reception was held at Marshall Meadows Hotel and, as you will see we stopped en-route at Cocklawburn Beach, a favourite of Anne and Simons for a short walk with Sally the dog and some photographs with the lovely vintage car.
Beautiful wedding cake by Robert Whitten.
“Prior to our big day, we met with Sarah in her studio. She confirmed everything in written form which gave us confidence and important trust in her abilities. We felt very comfortable because of her friendly approach as well as her skills and knowledge as a professional photographer.
Some aspects of our wedding day were challenging, however, Sarah performed above and beyond our expectations. It became evident to us during the day how much Sarah was able to engage easily with everyone at the wedding without being overly intrusive or fussy; the outcome was a natural yet professional collection of images. Great observational skills ensured she sensed when we were becoming overwhelmed and intervened discreetly to encourage us to take a break.
I was very impressed by Sarah’s ability to even get the attention of our dog Sally so she too looked great in the photographs!
There are many stresses associated with the planning of a wedding however the photography arrangements flowed perfectly thanks to Sarah who in our opinion is more than a photographer she is an essential member of your wedding party.
Thank You Sarah from the bottom of our hearts xx
”
A relaxed family wedding then an epic party at Doxford Hall Hotel
Karen and James enjoyed a weekend retreat wedding at Doxford Hall, they and most of their guests stayed and took advantage of the lovely facilities at Doxford over the weekend of their wedding. This wedding was so full of love and laughter and it shines through in the pictures.
Karen made sure that she used local suppliers like Jodi Lamb for the makeup, Charlie from The Salon for hair and Buds the florists from Tweedmouth.
I was really impressed by the cake maker who painted the wedding cake to Karen’s bespoke design in the morning, that must be a scary job!
The weather was not ideal for family group photographs outside (remember storm Dennis? yeah, that.) but we did manage a very quick group photo with everyone from the daytime, brave people.
The Kennedy Suite at Doxford is a huge hall so you can’t really tell here but there were about 250 guests in the evening and every one of them really knew how to party! So so many friends!!
A Locally Sourced Holy Island Wedding on a Special Date
Sarah and Alan chose to marry on the second of the second of twenty twenty or 2/2/2020, a special date, a Sunday wedding, and in a very special location, Lindisfarne Castle on Holy Island.
It was lovely to hear Margaret and Andy Watchhorn, The Northumberland Pipers, again. In fact, everything to do with the wedding was local or locally sourced: the beautiful flowers were from Buds at Berwick; the drinks and cake were all made on the island; the wedding cake was by the amazing Pilgrims Cafe; and, obviously, Lindisfarne Mead had to be consumed!
The view from the Upper Battery is pretty spectacular on any day and from any direction (I’m not saying it won’t be cold or windy though)!
After the ceremony and a few family group shots, the Glen Valley minibus took the guests to the Bothy Bar at Barn at Beal for an entertaining afternoon reception.
A gorgeous autumnal wedding at Dryburgh Abbey Hotel
Erica and Jamie celebrated their wedding on a gloriously colourful October day. The weather wasn’t too kind but we managed to (mostly) avoid getting wet outside and Erica came prepared with her sparkly wellies.
The day started at Erica’s parent’s home in Ancrum, Jedburgh with some photographs of the bridesmaids and family that were there. It wasn’t far to go to get to Dryburgh Abbey Hotel in a shiny Mercedes car.
The ceremony room was set out beautifully with simple acorns and white chairs to incorporate the autumnal theme.
The theme also ran through the Order of Service booklets, table plan, and other literature throughout the day - a really nice touch.
The humanist celebrant gave a beautifully meaningful and emotive ceremony with a hand fasting ritual.
After the ceremony everyone retired to the lounge areas for coffee and nibbles then out we went for some quick formal family photographs, the next photo here includes ‘the best family’ and the bridesmaids, I loved that idea!
I then stuck my head out of an upstairs window for a group shot of everyone before heading out with Jamie and Erica to Dryburgh Abbey next door for the first photographs of them as husband and wife! (It’s also nice for them to take a break away from everything and regather just after the ceremony).
Soon after it was time for the wedding meal and some great speeches.
As you can see, the Scottish ceilidh dancing was a big hit. The first dance was rather impressive too - I’m sure there must have been some practising.
I loved the colours of this wedding, from Erica’s dress and the contrast with her mum’s outfit to the warm tree-lined drive at the hotel, I can’t wait to see Erica and Jamie show them the rest of their photographs.
Bamburgh Castle Wedding in Windy and Beautiful Northumberland
The day started with a quick visit to Bamburgh Beach. Julie and Mark were not concerned with tradition and were happy to see each other before the ceremony - it was lovely for them to spend some time together with the children before all the events of the day. You really can’t tell how windy it was in the photos on that day - it was actually insane!
We headed back to the Castle for a few more shots around the grounds before ‘the finishing touches’ of getting ready and welcoming all the guests to the Grand Kings Hall. The ceremony included a beautiful sand ceremony and readings from both mums.
After the ceremony, Mark and Julie jumped on their tandem bike for a hilarious ride around the grounds. Julie’s blue veil left her hair but fortunately, the wind blew it right back down and into my hands! We all walked down to another part of the castle where there were fish and chips served from a van and cake and drinks were served inside.
The very next day I attended their wedding reception at Crusoes, Tynemouth - its the second time I’ve photographed a reception here and it is a fab location!
This has been quite a long blog, mainly because Mark and Julie have opted for a USB digital photo only package so I didn’t get to create a storybook album (and I love putting the pictures from a wedding together to create the story of the day), its great to look over their wedding again and this has been the perfect way to enjoy it.
Victoria and James amazing 'Mad Hatters' themed wedding at Coldingham Priory and Fleurs Farm
So much thought went into Victoria and James’s wedding day, the Mad Hatters theme was sewn into every detail, from the buttonholes with keys to the decor, outfits, floristry, favours, order of service, cake design and menus. There was even a large ‘Wrong Way / This Way’ maze in a barn to get into the reception marquee.
Coldingham Priory is a stunning place to get married! The village also has my favourite beach in the area - Coldingham Bay. Victoria’s family farm (where the reception was held) has its own secret little spot of beach which is very special to them so we headed down there for some couple’s shots while everyone was milling around and enjoying canapes.