The Engagement Shoot
From our first meeting and our engagement shoot near Castell Carreg Cennen in the Brecon Beacons, I knew Tash and Rhodri would be great to work with and I couldn't wait to photograph their day. Like most people, being photographed wasn't something they were used to. This being said, it wasn't long until they were like pros and saw it was all about capturing their natural interaction not heavy posing. Engagement shoots can be brilliant as a trial run before the wedding and an opportunity to not take it too seriously, relax and get to know your photographer. For me, some of the best photos are the ones that capture interaction and personality, these two had plenty of that.
The Wedding
Gwesty'r Emlyn | Emlyn Hotel
The Emlyn Hotel was a beautiful setting within the town of Newcastle Emlyn. The town itself straddles the counties of Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire and the hotel really couldn't be more central. In the riverside garden, you feel close to nature and the dedicated area for photos is ideal. With the Castle also just a five minute walk away, you really have some great opportunities for a variety of photographs. I really couldn't wait to get started capturing Tash & Rhodri's day.
Personal touches
Whilst there are many things that are similar between weddings, it's the personal touches that create the unique moments. I knew about Rhodri's passion for cars and it wasn't hard to know when him and his ushers had arrived. The sight and sound was pretty unmissable! This will also make sense when you see the guard of honour as they left the ceremony below.
Unique Solutions
I'm always amazed to see how people overcome the challenges brought by Covid. Unfortunately, one of Tash's brothers who was in Australia was caught by the travel restrictions and unable to attend. However, there was an ingenious solution to this and with live streaming and a fully suited and booted cardboard cutout, he was a full part of the day.
After the ceremony, I always like spending twenty minutes or so with the couple to capture relaxed portraits of the both. It's also often the first real chance they get to be alone and take it all in as a married couple. So, after photographing candids and some groups, I headed up to the castle with the Bride and Groom. We had the stunning Teifi valley and the ruined castle walls as a backdrop. We picked up where we left off from the engagement shoot and they got to spend some time together before heading back to the reception.
Are you planning a wedding in West Wales? I'd love to hear from you!
Find more of my photographs here.