First wedding of the year, The Guildhall St Ives, Cornwall

While I can’t speak for the bride, I’ll admit I had my own pre-wedding nerves, but not the doubtful kind. For me, it’s always about the quiet challenge of doing better than last time, of pushing just a little further with every wedding. This one also marked the first full outing with my new Sony A7 V, paired with my ever-reliable Sony A7 IV, and I was more than a little excited to see how it would hold up across a full day of storytelling.

Having visited St Ives the week before and with the Easter holidays still in full swing—I knew it would be busy. Parking here is never a gentle affair, so I arrived early, just in case. Thankfully, that decision paid off, gifting me a little extra time to wander down to the Pedn-Olva Hotel and capture some beautifully unhurried bridal prep moments with Rachel. The Pedn-Olva, freshly refurbished, is looking fantastic. Perched dramatically above the coastline, it’s one of those places that makes you pause for a moment well worth a visit, even if only for a quiet drink and the view.

I photographed Rachel with her two bridesmaids, the room softly lit with sunlight drifting through the windows. Using my 24–70mm for wider scenes and switching to the 85mm for more intimate portraits, I was able to move easily between storytelling and those quieter, more delicate details.

From there, I made my way to The Guildhall St Ives to capture the groom’s arrival and the gentle build of anticipation as guests began to gather. At this point, I swapped the 85mm for my 70–180mm, giving me that extra reach for candid moments unfolding at a distance. As the room slowly filled, we moved inside, ready for the ceremony to begin.

This was my first time shooting at this venue, and I was genuinely taken aback by how lovely it is. The wood cladding, paired with soft natural light pouring through the large windows, created a setting that felt both warm and quietly cinematic, perfect for capturing honest, unforced moments.

The ceremony itself unfolded smoothly, almost effortlessly. The only fleeting challenge came during the bride’s entrance. With a short aisle and little time to reposition, I quickly shifted from capturing Rachel’s entrance to moving behind the guests, framing Leon’s reaction through the crowd. It was a small adjustment, but one that added a lovely sense of depth and emotion to the images.

After the ceremony, we slipped away for some more intimate group and couple shots just outside the St Ives Arts Club. Unexpectedly, we had the space entirely to ourselves, a rare and welcome gift in such a busy town. The light was beautiful, and with waves breaking against Smeaton’s Pier in the background, it felt unmistakably like St Ives at its best.

Staying true to my candid approach, we kept things relaxed and uncomplicated—no over-posing, just natural moments unfolding as they should, before heading on to the Bier Huis Grand Café, where Rachel and Leon were warmly welcomed by their guests.

I had half expected to reach for flash in the darker interior, but instead switched from my 24–70mm to my 35mm prime (which stayed on for the rest of the day), and the camera handled the low light effortlessly. It meant I could continue shooting in a natural, documentary style without missing a beat.

We spent some genuinely lovely time here, with the bride and groom soaking in those relaxed moments with family and friends. I’ll admit—watching those incredible craft beers making their rounds was slightly distracting, but professionalism prevailed!

The reception flowed beautifully, and it’s always the part of the day where everything softens a little guests relax, laughter comes more easily, and even I get to move more freely. It’s one of my favourite parts of any wedding. From quiet conversations to bursts of laughter, the moments reveal themselves naturally. And, of course, the key highlights, the cake cutting and that first dance, bring a gentle sense of occasion that ties everything together.

Rachel and Leon’s wedding couldn’t have been a better way to begin the season. One of my favourite locations, incredible weather and a truly wonderful couple; it had that rare feeling of everything falling perfectly into place. I wish them both all the very best for the future, and I feel genuinely lucky to have been part of such a special day.

(St Ives Cornwall Wedding, April 2026)