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every emotion captured: phil drinkwater photography

Julia Braime

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It goes without saying that you want your wedding photographer to produce the most beautiful images of your big day, but it’s also important to select a pro that will fit in with the flow of your day, who will feel like a guest and who will make the process as simple as possible.

Fortunately for you we know a fella that offers all of the above, our talented Sponsor Phil Drinkwater of Phil Drinkwater Photography, who is joining us on the blog today.

Based in the North West, but documenting weddings all over the UK and overseas, Phil loves nothing more than delivering the story of the full day through his gorgeous images. He aims to blend in and promises to capture every emotion, so you can relive the special moments of your day time and time again.

We’ll hand over to Phil now to show off some of his fabulous images while telling us more about his love for all things wedding…

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When did you first start photographing weddings and what was it that attracted you to the industry?

[juennaopen]phil says: I started just over a decade ago now. I was originally working in beauty (makeup) and fashion photography, but everything I produced looked too “beautiful” for the fashion industry. It was quipped a few times that I should shoot weddings, so I did! I think I suit the happiness of a wedding day and the accuracy that is required to be a wedding photographer. The different stories in a wedding day really attract me and I love to hang out with happy people at such an amazing occasion.

How would you describe your style of photography and the approach you take to capturing a big day?

I’ve combined the best of different styles, but most of my time is spent beautifully documenting the day. I don’t subscribe to the “dark and moody” style of photography much and I’m always looking to produce bright and beautiful tones which flatter. It’s important for me to be involved in the day – I like to capture the day every emotion at a time, and knowing the personalities allows me to predict where to be and what to be focusing on.

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What is it that you love most about your job?

It’s being at the wedding itself. I love to feel the emotions on the day and it’s exciting to develop the picture-based story in my mind as the day progresses. It’s why I only offer a full day wedding option – I wouldn’t want to miss anything.

In your opinion what are the most important things for a couple to consider when deciding which photographer to book for their wedding?

It sounds dull, but the most important thing couples are missing at the moment is consideration of image backup policy. Many photographers don’t use dual cards on the day (where their camera is writing to two cards at once at the wedding) and don’t backup the photos when they get home. Outside of that, it’s down to someone whose work and personality you love. It should feel like walking into that perfect new house – something should just feel “right”.

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What sets you apart from other wedding photographers?

I think I’m the most consistent photographer that I know. Many photographers will put their focus into certain sections of the day, or certain types of photos. For me, nothing is given more attention than anything else. I’ll do everything possible to produce the very best in every single photograph.

What is the feedback like from your couples?

It’s that they loved having me as part of the day, that they hardly knew I was there and feel the photographs really tell the story. One groom also called me a “photographer ninja” because I seem to be everywhere at once! Another commented that my booking system was excellent.

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Do you have a favourite part of the wedding day to capture?

I like to hang out with the bride and bridesmaids in the morning to experience the various emotions they go through as they approach “the moment”.

What area do you cover and is there somewhere in particular that you would love to shoot a wedding that you’ve not yet had the opportunity to do?

I photograph everywhere! Probably half of my weddings are in the North West, but I’ve photographed London and Scotland and Wales, and been abroad quite a few times. I’d love to photograph a wedding in Morocco because I adore the colours in the country, and the taste of the tagines! I’d also love to do an amazing beach wedding in the Caribbean and I’m sure that’ll happen sometime soon.

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Other than photography, what are your other passions and what do you think you would be doing if you weren’t a wedding photographer?

I’m passionate about cycling, fitness and cooking, but above everything is travel – I truly love it! I love documenting my journeys. I’d love to be a travel photographer – it would be great to mix two key passions.

What is the standout moment of your career so far?

Probably standing on the cliffs of Santorini, and knowing I had everything totally under control. I felt like I’d come so far – and I had really, I suppose!

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What can couples who book you expect?

That I’ll be the least hassle supplier they’ll book. I have automated systems, card payment, a few forms to fill in, it’s all so simple! I also provide couples with useful emails on the lead up to the wedding with useful information. On the day I’ll be fun, friendly and chat with people. I like everyone to feel comfortable around me.

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What is included in your photography package?

It’s me and my meticulous, everything! At the end, you receive a full set of colour and black and white photos so you’ll always have the photo you love in the style you prefer. All photos are in high resolution and ready for printing. Albums are available in packages if people would like them. I don’t pressure people though.

Can you give us an idea of price?

I’m £2,000 for high resolution images, anywhere in the UK – it keeps things simple. Albums are from £500. Destination weddings are priced dependent on expenses – typically £300 to £700 for Europe.

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How can readers get in touch with you/ see more examples of your work?

They can visit my website, view my Instagram or email me at [email protected]

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