I’m Russell — a Cotswolds wedding photographer specialising in relaxed, natural, timeless photography across The Cotswolds, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire and surrounding counties.

Below are the most common questions couples ask before booking. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, just get in touch — I’m always happy to help.

Your Questions, Answered

Booking and Availability

  • Most couples book approximately 12 months in advance, especially for peak season dates (May–September).

    If you're planning a short engagement, it's still worth getting in touch, I occasionally have late availability.

  • Booking is simple:

    1. Get in touch via my contact form

    2. We’ll arrange a relaxed call to chat about your plans

    3. I’ll send over your contract and booking invoice

    4. Your date is secured with a booking fee

    Once that’s done, you can relax knowing your photography is taken care of.

  • Yes — a booking fee secures your date in my diary. The remaining balance is due closer to your wedding day.

Photography style and approach

  • My style is natural, relaxed and storytelling-focused.

    I caputure your wedding day as it genuinely unfolds — real moments, real emotion, no awkward posing. I’ll gently guide you when needed (especially for portraits), but the majority of your day is captured candidly and unobtrusively.

    Couples often describe my work as:

    • Authentic

    • Elegant

    • Emotional

    • Timeless

  • Yes — absolutely.

    Most couples say this. You don’t need to know how to pose or “perform”. I use natural prompts and gentle direction so you feel comfortable and look like yourselves.

    My goal is for you to enjoy the moment, not feel like you’re in a photoshoot.

  • Absolutely — but in a relaxed way.

    I won’t leave you feeling awkward or unsure what to do. Instead, I use natural prompts and gentle direction so you look like yourselves, just at your best. I also like to go for a walk during couple portraits to help you relax and enjoy the experience.

    Most couples say, “We’re not very comfortable in front of the camera” — and then are surprised by how easy it feels.

  • Yes. We’ll plan your essential family group photos in advance so they’re organised, efficient and stress-free.

    I keep them relaxed and natural — no shouting, no chaos.

  • For group photos, definitely…I actually request that you do to make things run smoothly.

    For the rest of the day, I recommend trusting me to capture moments as they naturally happen.

  • Yes I offer film photography packages for your wedding. I love the look of film photos. For couples who value artistry, texture and authenticity, film offers a truly beautiful addition to their wedding package.

Prices and Packages

  • My full day package starts at £1500.

    I offer digital coverage, with film photography available as an optional add-on. Tailored coverage is also available for smaller celebrations and multi-day weddings.

    Please get in touch for more information.

  • Yes I offer film photography packages for your wedding. I love the look of film photos. For couples who value artistry, texture and authenticity, film offers a truly beautiful addition to their wedding package.

  • Yes. Most couples book full-day coverage, from morning preparations through to evening celebrations.

    This typically includes:

    • Getting ready

    • Ceremony

    • Confetti & drinks reception

    • Speeches

    • Golden hour portraits

    • First dance

    • Evening party

    Tailored coverage is also available for smaller celebrations and multi-day weddings.

  • A second photographer can be added if your wedding size or logistics would benefit from additional coverage. I’m happy to advise whether it’s necessary for your day.

  • Yes — I offer a heavily discounted engagement sessions with my full day package. I find them a great way to:

    • Get comfortable in front of the camera

    • Create beautiful images

    • Get to know each other

    They’re relaxed, natural and fun — no stiff posing required.

    You’ll get some lovely photos from the session but the main reason I offer engagement shoots is to get to know you as a couple. I don’t want to be a strange on your big day.

Deliverables & Editing

  • For a full day package you will receive 500+ photos. These photos are all carefully selected by me and edited to my style.

  • A preview of some of my favourite images will be sent within a few days.

    You will receive your full wedding gallery within 8 weeks. I deliver all the photos via a beautiful online gallery which you can share with your family and friends.

    Every image is individually edited for consistency, tone and storytelling impact.

  • Yes. Your gallery allows you to download, share and print your images. There is also a store attached to your gallery where you can order prints and albums should you wish…don’t worry, I will never ask anyone to purchase from this store, it’s completely up to you if you would like to make any purchased after your wedding.

    You’re welcome to share your images on social media — I just kindly ask for credit where possible and do not edit or add filters to the images.

  • Yes — I offer beautifully designed wedding albums and professional-quality printed products.

    Your online gallery includes access to a private print store where you can order fine art prints, framed artwork and bespoke wedding albums. This ensures everything is produced using professional materials and colour-calibrated printing for the highest quality finish.

    There is absolutely no pressure to purchase prints or albums. Many couples simply enjoy having the option available and decide later — or not at all. The store is there purely as a convenient, high-quality option should you want something tangible to keep or share with family.

Weather, travel & logistics

  • I’m based in The Cotswolds and photograph weddings throughout the region and across the UK.

    Whether you're getting married in a countryside manor, rustic barn, marquee at home, or historic venue, I regularly travel throughout Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and beyond.

    Destination weddings are also very welcome.

  • I love weddings when it rains…I probably shouldn’t say that but I think they offer something special to your photos. I’m always prepared for the rain, I bring umbrellas for you and rain jackets for me. My cameras are all weather sealed, so I’m always happy to head out and get some beautiful photos in the rain if you are.

    If you’d prefer not to brave the weather then The Cotswolds offers beautiful indoor options, covered walkways, stone archways and atmospheric backdrops that look incredible in soft, rainy light.

  • Yes — I offer a complimentary engagement sessions with my full and half day package. I find them a great way to:

    • Get comfortable in front of the camera

    • Create beautiful images

    • Get to know each other

    They’re relaxed, natural and fun — no stiff posing required.

    You’ll get some lovely photos from the session but the main reason I offer engagement shoots is to get to know you as a couple. I don’t want to be a strange on your big day.

  • Yes — I’m fully insured with professional indemnity and public liability cover.

    I’m happy to provide documentation to venues upon request.

  • I capture weddings at all different types of venues… barns, manor houses, private homes and countryside venues are some of my favourite settings.

    These venues suit my natural style perfectly, allowing space for authentic moments and stunning outdoor portraits.

Still have a question? please get in touch. I would love to hear more about your big day

Get in touch