Somerset Wedding Photographer - Sam & Gemma.

2019 was my second year as a Somerset wedding photographer, and it was a really good one. It was also the last year before the world went mad — a time when everything still felt calm and, in hindsight, wonderfully normal. I look back on that period with a lot of happiness, and Sam & Gemma’s wedding is one I remember especially well.

They chose August for their day, and it gave us classic English summer conditions: warm temperatures, barely any wind, and soft overcast skies. As I was still early in my wedding photography journey, I was learning constantly — trusting my instincts more, finding my style, and very much going with the flow. Days like this played a big part in shaping the photographer I am today and the relaxed, documentary approach you’ll see throughout my Somerset wedding photography portfolio.

Nettlecombe Court was Sam & Gemma’s chosen location for their Somerset wedding, hidden away in the hills of Exmoor. While it isn’t a traditional wedding venue, the couple have a strong connection to the building through the field studies it offers, including art and leisure courses, as well as walking and nature experiences. Because of that, it’s unlikely I’ll never photograph another wedding here, which makes this one feel even more special. The historic building and surrounding grounds made for a beautiful, character-filled backdrop to their day. I actually really liked this location for taking photos, the rooms were very well lit with plenty of space.

The overcast skies eventually threatened rain, so Sam & Gemma decided to hold their ceremony indoors, in the main hall. It turned out to be the perfect choice. Large windows filled the space with soft, even light, while the white ceilings and warm wooden floors created a lovely balance of tones. Photographing a wedding inside can often be stressful, but this room seemed perfect for the occasion. Shortly after the ceremony the skies did settle, and this allowed the wedding party to enjoy some drink outside sat on the hay bales. It was smiles all around and they were a very happy crowd to work with.

If you’re planning your own wedding and you are looking for relaxed, documentary-style coverage, feel free to get in touch here — I’d love to hear about your plans.