Today on the blog we’re meeting UNVEILED Network Member Aaron Jeffels. Aaron loves his craft with a passion, and brings a big dose of relaxed realism to your wedding photographs.
If you’re looking for natural images that capture the very essence of your wedding day, then Aaron – who describes the event as “life crammed into a single day” – has you covered and then some.
Oh, and he’ll come dressed for the occasion too!
Let’s say hello…
Hi Aaron!
Hello! I’m Aaron Jeffels, owner of Aaron Jeffels Photography. I am based in Guisborough, on the edge of the North Yorkshire Moors
Where did your passion for photography come from ?
I first started photography in college as an AS level. It was meant to be just a filler subject for a year before I could drop one and it ended up turning into my favourite subject. After a year I dropped out of college and joined the Royal Navy but kept up photography as a hobby, often taking a camera with me on deployment.
I decided to make it a career after leaving the Royal Navy and hating my job. I’m a strong believer in doing something that makes you happy. I love photography and find it amazing that I do my favourite hobby as a job.
What do you love about capturing a couple’s big day?
Every wedding is different, and what better way to spend time with people than on the most important day of their lives. The best part for me is how you see every emotion on a wedding day. Big burly dads just crumble when they see their daughter for the first time, kids laughing and crying, grandparents bursting with pride. A wedding has it all, its life crammed into one single day and I love it.
How would you describe your style of photography?
Natural, honest, candid, real and raw. I don’t like to stage anything, if a bride puts her flowers in a bath then that’s where I photograph them, if a child is crying in church, then I photograph that moment. I believe someone’s story should be told just how it happened.
What’s your approach like on the wedding day?
For me, it’s all about the prep beforehand. I like to get to know my couples so on the day it’s not “there’s the photographer”. Having this relationship lets me become a guest on the day and I can just do what I do without the awkwardness. As I said I don’t like silly poses or staged photos. I walk around just as a guest does and I act just like a guest, and at the same time I photograph those special moments.
How do you build relationships with your couples?
This is all done beforehand. I never force a pre-wedding shoot but you can tell the weddings that haven’t had one! I like to get to know my clients on the pre-wedding shoot. I tend to book clients that are similar to me. I love getting outdoors and walking so naturally, this is where we go out and photograph and get to know each other.
What sets you apart from other photographers?
I like to think I’m pretty relaxed, some would say too relaxed. I don’t make a huge deal about getting those formal group photos. Lets get them done and get back to the party! And I always dress smartly! Its your wedding day, so I dress for it.
Do you have a favourite part of the day to capture?
I do like bridal prep. Its a part of the day that not many people see, but it has every emotion possible. Proud mothers, crying dads, stressed brides, laughing grandparents, cheeky children. I just love it.
Where does your work take you?
I work all over the North of England and have recently photographed in Thailand. Once the pandemic is under control I hope to get back out there!
What would be your top tips for couples searching for a wedding photographer?
Get to know your photographer and make that personal connection with them. Trust your photographer, they know the important photos to take and when to get them and don’t be afraid to ask them questions. Do they have backups, insurance, sickness backup etc. If they are genuine then they won’t be afraid to answer!
What options do you offer when couples are booking you?
I like to make my packages as flexible as possible. I think I have a package for everyone. I don’t believe that just because you are working on a budget that you shouldn’t be able to have good photographs.
Find out more at www.aaronjeffelsphotography.com
