Do I need a wedding photographer at all?

The two most important aspects of a wedding are the bride's dress and the photos: the dress will be the talking point and most-photographed part of the wedding, and furthermore, everyone will be looking at the photos for years after the event - probably for a lifetime. Yes, you need an experienced professional that you trust.

Furthermore, asking an unqualified or inexperienced friend or family member to do your wedding photos on the grounds that they have a nice camera could easily lead to embarrassment, and also, they need to be allowed to sit back and enjoy the wedding as a guest! Instead, perhaps you could invite them to pay for some aspects of the photography as a wedding present, such as a coffee table album.

What sort of albums does Photos by Francis offer?

Please have a look here. These carefully-researched and hand-finished albums have stood the test of time and represent good value for money.

Which parts of the UK and Europe does Francis cover?

Please see here.

What are the fees if I choose Photos by Francis to cover my wedding?

You can find the current price list here. It is recommended that between 10 and 15% of your wedding budget should be set aside for photos.

Are there special offers and discounts?

The fees reflect the amount of work required as well as ensuring good value for money. Francis receives work through recommendations and is kept busy throughout the year: there is thus very little 'down time', though if any of Francis' trusted album-makers are offering any current offers, these will be passed on to the customer.

What are Francis' photographic qualifications?

Francis has a Degree in Photography (following a three-year course) and the industry-recognised NCTJ qualification for photojournalists (24-week course) which he achieved at the start of his initial career as a photojournalist. He belongs to the National Photographic Society and the NUJ. More importantly, Francis has a strong background in wedding & celebrity photography.

Does Photos by Francis offer 'reportage' photography?

'Reportage' means a stream of unposed action photos of events on the day, and any photographer you have employed should certainly be expected to capture plenty of these as a matter of course.

However, as a qualified and experienced photojournalist, Francis is used to dealing in genuine 'reportage'! See what the National Photographic Society have to say: "Expect to pay hefty fees for a good photojournalist as they are in great demand." Francis, of course, offers good value as well as expertise and the right experience!

I would like bizarre camera angles and mysterious blurry figures etc

Please look elsewhere. Uncalled-for trendy techniques can make current pictures look dated in years to come, as well as causing frustration and adverse comment. Photos should look natural and relaxed, but please set aside some time for posed groups as well. This requires planning and co-ordination on the day. Black-and-white or sepia can work for the right photo but generally speaking, Francis advises against black-and-white for the whole wedding.

Can Francis help me find a venue, wedding planner, cake supplier etc?

Francis has good connections and can recommend (and give good advice on!) all aspects of the day.

Does Francis make wedding videos?

This is another craft in itself, so Francis is happy to recommend John Gubba, the renowned and experienced documentary film-maker and broadcaster.

Where I can find more sensible advice on the subject of hiring a professional photographer?

The National Photographic Society has some good advice here.

Please feel free to ask any further questions or arrange to meet.