Top Best Wedding Photography Services for 2026
- Jesús Magan
- Jan 8
- 17 min read
Updated: Jan 9
Choosing the right wedding photographer can shape how your memories feel for years to come. Staffordshire and surrounding areas offer a range of creative talent, each with a distinct approach and personal touch. Whether you picture candid moments captured quietly or prefer images that blend storytelling with cinematic style, there are options that match every couple’s vision. Exploring what sets these professionals apart reveals how special details and local expertise can make all the difference in your album.
Table of Contents
Wedding Film Photography
At a Glance
Wedding Film Photography is our clear number one pick for couples in Staffordshire who want natural, documentary-style wedding imagery with cinematic flair. Run by an experienced husband-and-wife team, they combine over ten years of practice with an award-recognised eye for emotion, delivering relaxed photos and films that feel utterly authentic. If you value comfort, story-led coverage and a personable service, this is the obvious choice.
Core Features
They offer wedding photography, videography and bespoke content creation, with a focus on candid storytelling rather than staged poses. The duo bring local expertise in Staffordshire and surrounding areas, knowing the best light, vantage points and venues to get beautiful results. Their site emphasises planning support, client testimonials, FAQs and easy contact options, and they promote engagement shoots, insurance details and the flexibility to cover destination weddings beyond Staffordshire.
Pros
Experienced husband-and-wife team with over ten years of experience: Their combined years in the field result in calm, confident coverage that anticipates moments before they happen.
Award-recognised work that speaks for itself: Recognition from industry peers underlines consistent technical skill and creative vision.
Focus on natural, authentic and heartfelt storytelling: Images and films prioritise emotion and atmosphere, not stiff posing.
Personal, caring approach that prioritises client comfort and enjoyment: Couples repeatedly note the relaxed, friendly manner that reduces nerves and reveals real smiles.
Local knowledge that ensures smooth logistics and beautiful results: Familiarity with Staffordshire’s light, access points and popular venues makes the day run more smoothly and yields better images.
Who It’s For
This service is ideal for engaged couples in Staffordshire who want unobtrusive, documentary-style coverage and value emotional storytelling over formal, posed albums. It suits couples who prefer a relaxed, friendly approach, who might want social media-ready content alongside a cinematic film, and who appreciate working with local vendors who understand the landscape and logistics of the county.
Real moments. Real stories.
Unique Value Proposition
Wedding Film Photography sets the gold standard by combining a deeply personal service with demonstrable creative excellence. The husband-and-wife dynamic matters: it delivers seamless teamwork, intuitive timing and a consistent aesthetic across photo and film. Their award recognition proves they can execute technically demanding work, while their emphasis on comfort, planning and local knowledge means you get more than pretty images — you get an authentic record of your day that reflects your relationship. Sophisticated couples choose them because they want dependable expertise, cinematic storytelling and a tailored experience that prioritises feelings over formula.
Real World Use Case
Imagine a Staffordshire couple marrying at a village hall with late-afternoon light pouring through old windows. The team quietly captures the groom’s hand trembling as he waits, candid laughter during speeches and the nuanced detail of the bride’s bouquet. After the day, the couple receive a cinematic short film and a natural photo gallery that together tell the emotional arc of their wedding.
Pricing
Pricing is not specified on the website; prospective clients are encouraged to contact the team for bespoke packages and availability.
Website: https://weddingfilmphotography.com
James Andrew Photography
At a Glance
James Andrew Photography is a Staffordshire-based wedding service that specialises in natural, relaxed storytelling photography. James prioritises genuine emotion over staged poses, producing candid images that feel lived-in and honest. If you want unobtrusive coverage that foregrounds atmosphere and connection, this is a strong, locally rooted option. It may feel less suitable if you need detailed pricing or a wide menu of extra services.
Core Features
James offers a creative documentary approach with minimal posing and a focus on authentic moments; his portfolio highlights work at well-known regional venues including The Ashes Barns, Foxtail Barns and Sandon Hall. Operating mainly across Staffordshire and the wider UK — including the West Midlands, Cheshire, Derbyshire and Shropshire — he brings a personal perspective to bookings, having experience as a recently married groom at The Ashes Barns himself. The offering centres on unobtrusive coverage that tells a couple’s story across a full wedding day.
Pros
Authentic storytelling-style images: The work emphasises genuine emotion and candid interactions, which results in photos that feel true to the day rather than overly posed.
Relaxed, non-intrusive process: James’s approach reduces stress for couples who dislike formal posing and prefer to enjoy their day naturally.
Local venue experience: His familiarity with venues such as The Ashes Barns, Foxtail Barns and Sandon Hall means he understands typical light, flow and photographic opportunities at those locations.
Personal insight as a groom: Having been a groom himself at a featured venue gives James a practical empathy for couples’ nerves and priorities on the day.
Positive client feedback: The service is supported by favourable reviews and recommendations from past clients in the region.
Cons
Pricing not disclosed: The website does not specify pricing or package breakdowns, which makes budgeting and direct comparison difficult for couples.
Geographical focus may limit reach: The emphasis on Staffordshire and nearby counties means couples outside those areas may face travel constraints or additional costs.
Lacks detail on availability and services: There is no clear information about typical availability, exact editing style, or supplementary options like engagement shoots, albums or second shooters.
Who It’s For
This service suits couples in Staffordshire and neighbouring counties who value documentary-style, emotion-led photography and who want a friendly, unobtrusive photographer. Choose James if you prioritise atmosphere, candid moments and a relaxed presence over formal portraiture or an extensive à la carte service list.
Unique Value Proposition
James offers a personable, venue-savvy alternative for couples seeking authentic storytelling rather than staged glamour. His hands-on experience at popular local venues and his empathetic perspective as a groom lend credibility and warmth to his coverage.
Real World Use Case
A couple planning a Sandon Hall wedding who want a photographer who understands the venue’s flow and will capture small, revealing moments would book James for full-day, documentary coverage to preserve the emotion of their day without intrusive posing.
Pricing
Not specified on the website.
Website: https://jamesandrewphotography.co.uk
Cris Lowis Photography
At a Glance
Cris Lowis Photography is a Staffordshire-based wedding photographer who specialises in storytelling and documentary-style coverage. The approach is relaxed and unobtrusive, prioritising natural, authentic moments over formal posing. If you want candid images that feel like a narrative of your day, this service delivers warmth and personality with an eco-conscious touch.
Core Features
Cris Lowis focuses on unobtrusive, documentary-style photography that captures the flow of a wedding day without interrupting it. Creative evening and sunset portraits are offered to add atmosphere and dramatic lighting when the moment calls for it. Formal shots are kept relatively quick and efficient, concentrating on essential family groupings rather than extended posed sessions. There is also an environmental commitment: a tree is planted for each booked couple, which adds a meaningful dimension to the service.
Pros
Relaxed, unobtrusive approach: The photographer’s low-key presence helps couples and guests relax, producing more genuine, unforced expressions.
Authentic moments prioritised: The emphasis on storytelling creates images that read like a narrative rather than a series of stiff portraits.
Creative evening lighting: Intentional use of sunset and venue lighting delivers evocative portraits that complement the candid reportage.
Personal and friendly service: Client testimonials highlight a personable manner that makes couples feel comfortable on the day.
Environmental engagement: Planting a tree for each booking demonstrates a tangible commitment to sustainability.
Cons
Specific style may not suit all couples: The documentary, candid focus will not appeal to couples who prefer highly posed, traditional bridal portraits.
Pricing details are not specified: The available content lacks clear information on packages and costs, which makes budgeting difficult without direct enquiry.
No explicit backup or insurance information: There is no clear mention of contingency measures such as data backup or insurance, which could be a concern for some couples.
Who It’s For
This service is ideal for couples in Staffordshire who value candid storytelling over conventional portraiture. If you want to relive the mood and emotion of your day rather than recreate staged moments, and you appreciate a friendly, unobtrusive photographer who blends into the background, Cris Lowis Photography is well suited to your needs.
Unique Value Proposition
Cris Lowis Photography blends documentary reportage with creative portraiture at key moments, offering a narrative-led album that feels both personal and cinematic. The additional pledge to plant a tree per booking gives couples an eco-friendly reason to choose this photographer beyond the images themselves.
Real World Use Case
A Staffordshire couple who prefer to enjoy their ceremony and reception without constant posing would hire Cris Lowis to document the laughter, tears, and fleeting glances across the day, then step in briefly for a few artful sunset shots to finish the story.
Pricing
Pricing is not specified in the provided content; interested couples should contact Cris Lowis Photography directly for package details and availability.
Website: https://lowisphotography.co.uk
Benjamin the Photographer
At a Glance
Benjamin the Photographer is a Derby-based wedding photographer who specialises in documentary-style coverage, aiming to capture genuine, emotional moments throughout your day. He offers full-day packages and a range of album options, so you leave with tangible memories as well as digital files. Pricing starts from £1,450 for full-day coverage, which reflects the comprehensive service but may stretch some budgets. Overall, he is an enthusiastic and professional choice for couples who value natural storytelling over posed formality.
Core Features
Benjamin focuses on documentary wedding photography that prioritises authentic interaction and emotion, while also delivering posed and creative portraits such as sunset and star-filled sky images. His packages include full-day coverage encompassing preparations through to reception, multiple album styles (contemporary, linen, leather), and extras for micro weddings and duplicate albums. He also maintains a presence for corporate and commercial work via Benpollard.pro, demonstrating wider photographic experience beyond weddings.
Pros
Specialises in documentary-style wedding photography: Benjamin concentrates on candid, narrative-driven images that document real moments rather than staged poses.
Offers comprehensive full-day coverage: His full-day option ensures the entire timeline of your wedding is recorded, from preparations to the reception.
Provides a variety of album options and packages: Couples can choose contemporary, linen or leather albums, giving a tactile end product to their wedding story.
Flexible in accommodating different wedding sizes and styles: Services extend from micro weddings to larger days, so he can adapt to your scale and tone.
Positive reviews emphasising professionalism and quality: Client feedback highlights his enthusiasm and ability to produce memorable, high-quality images.
Cons
Pricing might be on the higher side for some budgets: Full-day coverage starting at £1,450 can be a significant portion of a wedding budget.
Limited to certain days for micro weddings: Micro wedding offerings are restricted to Monday to Thursday, which may not suit couples wanting weekend dates.
Additional costs for extras: Extras such as dance floor action or additional album spreads can incur extra charges beyond base packages.
Who It’s For
This service is ideal for Staffordshire couples who want a natural, documentary-led approach and value photographic storytelling above formal portraiture. If you want comprehensive coverage and a handsome physical album to pass down, Benjamin is well suited to your needs — especially if you appreciate an enthusiastic, personable photographer.
Unique Value Proposition
Benjamin combines documentary instincts with the craft of creative portraiture and bespoke albums, offering a complete package: authentic storytelling in-camera and a range of finished album styles. His experience across weddings and commercial work brings a professional polish to emotional, candid coverage.
Real World Use Case
A couple planning a relaxed village hall wedding in Staffordshire hires Benjamin to unobtrusively document the morning preparations, ceremony, candid guest interactions and evening reception, then selects a contemporary album to present the highlights in a flowing narrative they can cherish.
Pricing
Full-day cover starts from £1,450; micro wedding coverage starts from £550; contemporary albums from £500.
Jonatha Coates Wedding Photography
At a Glance
Jonatha Coates is an award-winning creative wedding photographer based in the Midlands who specialises in fun, vibrant and boldly composed images that tell a story. His approach mixes candid, documentary-led moments with striking portraits to deliver a varied gallery that feels both natural and cinematic. For couples who prize relaxed direction and genuine emotion over rigid posing, his portfolio suggests consistently emotive results. If you want a photographer who travels and adapts to dramatic venues, he is a compelling option.
Core Features
Jonatha offers creative wedding photography that blends natural storytelling with epic portraiture, with an explicit focus on capturing genuine emotions and unposed moments. He is comfortable across a wide range of venues — from grand halls and castles to barns, tipis, forests and even desert locations — and is available to travel for weddings across the UK and internationally. His award-winning status and features on wedding blogs underpin a professional reputation and a refined stylistic sensibility.
Pros
Award-winning reputation: His industry recognition and features on wedding blogs signal a photographer who meets professional standards and is noticed by peers and editors.
Natural, candid style: He specialises in capturing spontaneous, unforced moments that preserve the emotional arc of the day rather than producing overly staged images.
Travel flexibility: He is able to travel across the UK and internationally, which makes him suitable for destination weddings or couples who marry away from home.
Relaxed, fun approach: The emphasis on keeping things relaxed helps nervous couples feel at ease and encourages more authentic expressions.
Versatile venue experience: Experience shooting in diverse and picturesque settings suggests he can adapt his style to suit both intimate rustic barns and formal grand halls.
Cons
Pricing not disclosed: The website content does not specify packages or pricing details, which makes initial budget planning less straightforward for couples.
Limited technical transparency: There is no explicit information about the technology or equipment used, so technically minded couples may lack detail on gear and backup procedures.
Sparse client review detail: Beyond awards and blog features, there is limited direct client testimonial information presented, which can make it harder to gauge day-to-day client experiences.
Who It’s For
This photographer is ideal for couples who want a creative, story-led photographer that prioritises emotion and a relaxed atmosphere. If you live in Staffordshire or elsewhere in the Midlands and value vibrant, candid photography with memorable portrait moments, his style will likely resonate. You should be comfortable with a photographer who balances unobtrusive documentary work and bold compositions rather than rigidly formal albums.
Unique Value Proposition
Jonatha combines award-winning creativity with a clearly articulated emphasis on genuine emotion and adaptable travel options, presenting a balance between documentary honesty and dramatic portraiture that many modern couples seek.
Real World Use Case
A bride and groom marrying at a secluded barn in the Midlands who want a mix of spontaneous reportage during vows and speeches, plus a handful of cinematic couple portraits at golden hour, will find his approach well suited to their brief.
Pricing
Pricing is not specified in the content provided; prospective clients should contact Jonatha directly for bespoke package details and availability.
Website: https://jscoates.com
Wes Webster Photography
At a Glance
Wes Webster Photography is a Staffordshire-based wedding and family photographer who specialises in natural, candid, documentary-style images. If you want unobtrusive storytelling that prioritises authentic emotion over staged poses, Wes delivers a relaxed, personable experience from pre-wedding shoots through to finished albums. His local knowledge of venues such as Ashes Barns, Foxtail Barns and Dunwood Hall Estate makes logistics smoother on the day. Bottom line: an excellent choice for couples in and around Staffordshire who value honest, emotive wedding photography.
Core Features
Wes focuses on a natural documentary approach, capturing genuine moments and personalities rather than directing posed scenes. He offers pre-wedding shoots to build rapport and confidence in front of the camera, and supplies high-quality wedding albums and photo books as physical keepsakes. His experience across popular Staffordshire venues and a supplier recommendation at Tower Hill Barns, Wales, mean he understands common site flows and lighting conditions, which helps produce consistent results for local couples.
Pros
Specialises in natural, honest moments: Wes prioritises candid storytelling, so your gallery reads like a real narrative of the day rather than a series of posed images.
Experienced with multiple award titles: His recognition suggests consistent, peer-acknowledged quality across weddings and family sessions.
Offers comprehensive packages including albums and pre-wedding shoots: You can expect a complete service from rehearsal shoots to printed keepsakes without sourcing extras yourself.
Works at numerous popular local venues: Familiarity with Staffordshire locations reduces the risk of logistical surprises and allows quicker, calmer shooting on the day.
Personalised approach focused on capturing couple’s personalities: The service is tailored to couples who want their distinct story reflected in the imagery.
Cons
Specific pricing details are not provided on the website: You will need to contact Wes for exact costs, which makes quick budget comparisons difficult.
Services are focused mainly on Staffordshire and nearby areas, possibly limiting options for distant clients: If you plan a destination wedding far from Staffordshire, travel availability and costs may require extra discussion.
Limited details on package customisation options: The site does not clearly explain how flexible packages are, so bespoke requests may need direct negotiation.
Who It’s For
This photographer is ideal for couples and families who want documentary-style coverage in Staffordshire and nearby counties, and who prefer authentic emotion over posed perfection. If you value a calm, personable presence on the day and tangible albums afterwards, Wes is well suited to your needs.
Unique Value Proposition
Wes Webster Photography combines a documentary ethos with strong local venue experience and a client-centred approach. The pre-wedding shoot plus album offering creates continuity from first meeting to finished keepsake, helping nervous couples feel relaxed and confident before their wedding day.
Real World Use Case
A couple planning a wedding at Dunwood Hall Estate hires Wes for a pre-wedding session to establish rapport, then relies on his venue knowledge on the wedding day to capture candid vows, natural family moments, and an album that tells their story for generations.
Pricing
The website states that he offers several wedding photography packages but does not specify prices, so prospective clients should request a bespoke quote for exact costs.
Website: https://weswebsterphotography.co.uk
Emma-Jane Photography
At a Glance
Emma-Jane Photography is a multi-award-winning London-based wedding photographer who excels at capturing natural, emotive images with a refined, fashion-inspired aesthetic. She blends documentary and editorial approaches to create effortless photographs that reflect each couple’s unique relationship. If you value unobtrusive presence and storytelling through candid moments, Emma-Jane is a compelling choice — though availability and travel fees may affect couples outside London and Oxfordshire.
Core Features
Emma-Jane offers natural and emotive wedding photography with an elegant mix of documentary and editorial styles, suitable for both UK and international weddings. Packages are fully customisable, typically ranging from six to twelve hours, and include pre-wedding calls and tailored timelines to ensure your day flows. Her approach focuses on candid moments with gentle guidance and prompts, allowing couples to feel relaxed while still producing composed, stylish images.
Pros
Award-winning reputation: Emma-Jane is recognised both in the UK and internationally, which suggests consistent quality and industry respect.
Versatile venue experience: She has worked across UK country houses and international locations, giving her the confidence to handle varied light and settings.
Emotive, authentic storytelling: Her emphasis on natural moments helps create an album that reads like a true narrative of your day.
Personalised planning support: Pre-wedding calls and bespoke timelines mean your photography is tailored to your schedule and priorities.
Professional, unobtrusive manner: A relaxed presence reduces stress on the day and encourages genuine interactions rather than forced poses.
Cons
Travel fees may apply: Based in London and Oxfordshire, couples outside these areas should expect additional costs for destination coverage.
Limited availability at peak times: Popularity can make securing dates harder during busy wedding seasons, so early booking is essential.
Pricing transparency is limited: Pricing details are not listed on the website, so you must contact Emma-Jane directly for a bespoke quote, which can be inconvenient for budget planning.
Who It’s For
Emma-Jane Photography is ideal for couples in Staffordshire and beyond who prize natural, emotive imagery with a stylish, editorial edge. If you want a photographer who blends into the background while still shaping key moments, and you plan a UK or destination wedding, she is a strong fit. You should be comfortable with bespoke packages and prepared to discuss travel arrangements if your venue is outside her base.
Unique Value Proposition
Emma-Jane’s unique value lies in combining a fashion-inspired aesthetic with documentary sensitivity, producing images that feel both timeless and current. Her award-winning eye and personalised service turn ordinary moments into composed, emotive photographs without interrupting the flow of your day.
Real World Use Case
A couple marrying in Tuscany hires Emma-Jane for her international experience and refined aesthetic; she crafts a tailored timeline, captures candid preparations, a natural ceremony, and editorial-style portraits at golden hour, delivering a cohesive album that tells their day as a narrative.
Pricing
Pricing is not specified online; packages are customisable based on hours and location. Couples are encouraged to contact Emma-Jane directly for a tailored quote.
Website: https://emma-janephotography.co.uk
Wedding Photography Services Comparison
The table below provides a comprehensive comparison of several wedding photography services based on key features, pros, cons, pricing, and suitability, enabling you to make an informed decision.
Service Name | Core Features | Pros | Cons | Pricing |
Wedding Film Photography | Photography and videography with candid storytelling; tailored packages; regional and destination | Over a decade of experience; award-winning; authentic, story-focused results; knowledgeable of the area; client-focused service | No pricing details provided online | Contact for packages |
James Andrew Photography | Focus on documentary-style photography; polished and relaxed approach; regional expertise | Familiarity with popular Staffordshire venues; relaxed, stress-reducing process; positive reviews | Pricing not disclosed; limited geographic focus | Contact for pricing |
Cris Lowis Photography | Specializes in storytelling photography with eco-conscious initiatives | Emphasis on natural and genuine moments; creative lighting expertise; relaxed service; eco-friendly | Pricing not listed; lacks explicit backup/contingency details | Contact directly |
Benjamin the Photographer | Documentary-focused photography with creative portraits; diverse package options | Full-day coverage included; bespoke album styling; highly rated for professionalism | Starting price may exclude some budget-conscious couples; extras can increase costs | Starts at £1,450 (full-day) |
Jonatha Coates Wedding Photography | Creative storytelling and posed portraiture mix; adaptable to diverse venues | Award-winning; vibrant results; international application; supportive and fun approach | Lacks detailed client reviews; no disclosed pricing or technical details | Contact for details |
Wes Webster Photography | Natural, candid documentary photography; local venue expertise | Pre-wedding shoots available; knowledgeable about Staffordshire venues; personable service | No pricing specifics online; regional focus | Request bespoke quotation |
Emma-Jane Photography | Documentary meets editorial photography for UK and destination weddings | Acclaimed internationally; supportive planning aspects offered; tailored packages | Travel fees may apply to non-core regions; popular availability | Custom packages (contact) |
Discover Authentic Wedding Storytelling That Lasts a Lifetime
Choosing the perfect wedding photography service is more than just hiring someone with a camera. As highlighted in the article “Top Best Wedding Photography Services for 2026,” couples often seek natural, unobtrusive coverage that captures genuine emotion and storytelling rather than staged, posed photos. Many couples face the challenge of finding a team that combines artistic vision with a relaxed, personable approach to make them feel comfortable throughout their special day.
At Wedding Film Photography, we understand these goals intimately. Our husband-and-wife team brings over ten years of experience and an award-winning eye for cinematic storytelling that reflects your unique love story. We specialise in candid, documentary-style photography and cinematic films, helping you relive every heartfelt moment with authenticity and warmth. To explore how we tailor bespoke packages and support your planning journey, visit our landing page.
Don’t settle for ordinary wedding images. Choose a service that prioritises your comfort, local knowledge of Staffordshire venues, and a seamless blend of photos and films that truly tell your story. Visit Wedding Film Photography now to start crafting memories that will move you for years to come. Reach out today to secure your date and experience wedding coverage designed around you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for when choosing a wedding photography service for 2026?
When selecting a wedding photography service, focus on their style, experience, and reviews. Look for portfolios that resonate with your vision of authentic and emotional storytelling, ensuring that their previous work aligns with what you desire for your special day.
How far in advance should I book my wedding photographer for 2026?
It is advisable to book your wedding photographer at least 6 to 12 months in advance. This timeframe allows you to secure your preferred photographer and ensure they can accommodate your date and requirements without any last-minute rush.
What questions should I ask during a consultation with a wedding photographer?
During a consultation, ask about their experience, style, package details, and how they manage timelines on the day. Inquire about their approach to candid and posed shots to see if it aligns with your expectations for capturing genuine moments.
How much do wedding photography services typically cost for 2026?
Wedding photography services can range from £1,000 to over £3,000, depending on factors like experience and package inclusions. Clarify what’s included in the cost, such as hours of coverage, prints, or albums, to compare options effectively.
Can I customise my wedding photography package?
Yes, many wedding photographers offer customisable packages to fit your specific needs. Reach out to discuss your desired hours, number of photographers, and any additional services, such as engagement shoots or albums, to create a tailored experience for your day.
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