Blog | Weddings By Dan | UK Wedding Photographer

Documentary Wedding Photography in Sheffield with 35mm Film Add-On

dan beall

3 hours ago

Sheffield, nestled in the heart of South Yorkshire, is a city brimming with character, charm, and stunning backdrops for weddings. As a documentary wedding photographer, I thrive on capturing genuine, unscripted moments that tell the unique story of your day. For this beautiful Sheffield wedding, the couple chose to enhance their coverage with a 35mm film add-on, bringing a timeless and artistic touch to their wedding gallery.

The Ceremony at The Well

The day began at The Well, a cozy and intimate venue in Sheffield that exudes warmth and a deep sense of connection. The ceremony was filled with heartfelt moments, from the emotional exchange of vows to the joy radiating from loved ones. My documentary approach allowed me to preserve these fleeting emotions as they unfolded naturally, creating a collection of images that feel raw, real, and authentic.

Couple Portraits at the Sheffield Botanical Gardens

After the ceremony, we headed to the Sheffield Botanical Gardens for couple portraits. This iconic location, with its sweeping lawns, vibrant floral displays, and historic glasshouses, offers a serene escape and a photographer’s dream. Incorporating 35mm film here brought a layer of nostalgia and artistry to their portraits. The soft grain, rich tones, and timeless feel of film complemented the lush greenery and romantic atmosphere perfectly.

Documenting these moments on film elevated the storytelling, making each frame feel like a cherished memory pulled from another era. The mix of digital and film photography gave the couple the best of both worlds—crisp, dynamic images alongside the textured beauty of film.

Reception at Cornerstone, Dyson Place

The celebration continued at Cornerstone, Dyson Place, a vibrant and stylish venue in Sheffield. The modern, open space provided the perfect backdrop for the reception. From the heartfelt speeches to the laughter shared during the meal and the electric energy on the dance floor, every moment was documented with a focus on storytelling.

The addition of 35mm film lent an extra layer of depth to these moments. Film has a unique ability to capture the atmosphere and emotion in a way that feels intimate and timeless. Combined with my documentary approach, the result was a collection of images that truly reflected the spirit of the day.

Why Choose Documentary Wedding Photography with 35mm Film?

Documentary wedding photography is about more than just capturing pictures—it’s about preserving moments as they naturally happen, without posing or interruption. Adding 35mm film to your wedding photography package brings an artistic and nostalgic element to your gallery. Film photography creates images with unique tones, a soft grain, and a timeless quality that digital cannot replicate.

For couples planning their wedding in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, or anywhere across the UK, combining documentary photography with 35mm film ensures your day is captured authentically and beautifully. Sheffield’s unique venues, from historic gardens to modern reception spaces, provide the perfect canvas for creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Let’s Document Your Day

Whether you're planning a wedding in Sheffield, elsewhere in South Yorkshire, or beyond, I’d love to tell your story through the lens of documentary photography. If you’re dreaming of adding 35mm film to your package or want to learn more about how I work, get in touch! Together, we can create a gallery of images that you’ll treasure forever—filled with genuine emotion, timeless beauty, and the magic of your wedding day.

Peak District Pre-Wedding Proposal Shoot – The Perfect Way to Break the Ice

dan beall

1 day ago

Planning a wedding can feel a little overwhelming at times, but one of the most enjoyable parts of the process is your pre-wedding shoot. Think of it as a relaxed, fun opportunity to capture your connection as a couple in a setting that’s personal and meaningful to you. Even more importantly, it’s the perfect way to break the ice with your photographer before the big day.

Whether you dream of epic views on a mountaintop, strolling through a peaceful woodland, or even returning to the bar where you first met, pre-wedding shoots are all about reflecting your love story. And if you’re up for a little adventure, there’s no better place to do it than the breathtaking Peak District.

Why Choose the Peak District for Your Shoot?

The Peak District is one of my favorite places for pre-wedding shoots – and not just because I’m an avid hiker! Its dramatic landscapes, rolling hills, and jaw-dropping views create the perfect setting for unforgettable photos. Whether it’s sunrise, sunset, or even a cloudy day, the Peaks offer a timeless beauty that elevates every image. Peak District Pre-Wedding Proposal Shoot

For Lorna & Jakob’s pre-wedding shoot, we ventured to Bamford Edge, one of the Peak District’s most iconic locations. The hike to the top is manageable, and the reward is incredible – sweeping 360-degree views of the valley below. We timed the shoot for a quiet weekday, giving us the luxury of having the place to ourselves. Even though the sun didn’t make an appearance, the moody skies added a dramatic touch, proving that the Peaks are stunning in any weather.

Tailoring the Experience to You

While I love a good hike, I understand that not everyone wants to trek up a hill in walking boots. The good news? The Peak District has plenty of easily accessible spots where you can step right out of the car and into a stunning backdrop. Whether you want to wear your comfiest trainers or rock a pair of heels, there’s a location to suit every vibe.

For couples who want something unique, I also know a few hidden gems off the beaten path – places that feel like they’re all yours. Whether it’s a quiet lake at dawn or a field of wildflowers in bloom, there are so many options to choose from.

Adding a Personal Touch

What makes a pre-wedding shoot truly special is the chance to incorporate details that reflect your personality and story. After we wrapped up Lorna & Jakob’s session on Bamford Edge, Jakob mentioned that he’d love to include his car – a classic old Golf that held a lot of sentimental value. Of course, we made it happen! We found the perfect spot to park it, and I leaned into a cinematic style to give the images a nostalgic, storytelling feel.

Little moments like this are what make pre-wedding shoots so memorable. It’s not just about the location or the light – it’s about capturing who you are as a couple, quirks and all.

Why Consider a Pre-Wedding Shoot?

Still on the fence about whether a pre-wedding shoot is for you? Here are just a few reasons why I think they’re a must:

• Get comfortable in front of the camera. Let’s be honest – not everyone feels like a natural when a lens is pointed their way. A pre-wedding shoot helps you ease into it, so by the time your wedding day rolls around, you’ll feel like pros.

• Build a connection with your photographer. Your photographer is going to be by your side for most of your wedding day, so it’s important to feel at ease with them. A pre-wedding shoot lets us get to know each other, making the whole process more relaxed and enjoyable.

• Capture a different side of your story. Your wedding photos will focus on the big day itself, but a pre-wedding shoot gives you a chance to celebrate your everyday love – the quiet moments, the inside jokes, and the places that mean the most to you.

Making the Most of Your Session

A pre-wedding shoot is all about creating an experience that feels true to you. Want to make it even more special? Consider tying it into other plans. After your session, you could grab a coffee at your favorite café, enjoy a picnic with your partner, or even make a full day of exploring the Peaks.

Whether you’re planning an adventurous sunrise hike or a cozy evening shoot close to home, I’m here to help bring your vision to life.

Let’s Plan Your Adventure

If a pre-wedding shoot sounds like the perfect addition to your wedding journey, let’s chat! Whether you’ve got a dream location in mind or you’re looking for suggestions, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Drop me a message, and let’s start planning your unforgettable Peak District pre-wedding shoot. The adventure – and the memories – are waiting!

Sahana & Ferris: A Documentary Wedding Photographer’s Perspective on a Stormy December London Wedding

dan beall

7 days ago

Updated: 1 day ago

As a London-based Documentary Wedding Photographer, there’s nothing more exciting than capturing a couple’s big day in such a dynamic and vibrant city. But for Sahana and Ferris, their December wedding on the Thames was certainly one for the books—thanks to the arrival of Storm Darragh. Despite the weather chaos, their wedding was nothing short of unforgettable, combining the grandeur of London with an intimate, cinematic documentary-style approach to photography.

This wedding was part one of Sahana and Ferris’ celebration, with part two set in India just the following week. The storm, which caused widespread disruption across the city, didn’t seem to faze the couple in the slightest. But it certainly threw some challenges my way, especially in terms of getting around.

I began the day at Sahana’s hotel, where she was getting ready with her parents and bridesmaids. With Storm Darragh in full force, it became a real struggle to catch a taxi, so I ended up hopping into the cab with Sahana and her dad. Even though we left with plenty of time, London’s notorious traffic meant it was a bit of a nail-biting arrival!

Meanwhile, my trusty second photographer was with the groom and his groomsmen at a nearby pub, capturing their preparations and, of course, calming any pre-wedding nerves with a quick pint.

The Venue: Winchester House, Putney

We eventually made our way to Winchester House, a stunning riverside venue nestled on the Thames in Putney. Steeped in history, this venue set the perfect backdrop for a wedding filled with elegance and charm. The main ceremony room, with its beautiful decor and perfect lighting, created a cinematic atmosphere that made every moment of the day feel like part of a movie.

The Ceremony and Canapés

The ceremony was intimate, emotional, and perfectly aligned with the relaxed yet elegant vibe of the day. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed canapés and drinks while mingling across the venue’s different rooms. There was always something interesting happening in every space, and I was there to document it all with a documentary photography style that captures real moments as they unfold.

Bride and Groom Portraits by the Thames

The rain briefly let up, so I seized the moment and asked Sahana and Ferris if they’d like to step outside for some portraits by the river. They were both more than up for it, and I’m so glad they agreed! The moody atmosphere by the Thames, paired with the cinematic style I bring to my work, created stunning, memorable shots that truly captured the spirit of the day.

But of course, just as we were finishing up, the sideways rain returned. We decided to take refuge indoors for the wedding breakfast and speeches.

Unique Speeches and First Dance

One of the most touching parts of the day was the speeches—rather than having the traditional format, everyone was invited to share a few words with the couple, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. It was an incredibly moving moment that I was honoured to capture in my documentary style, preserving the emotion and significance of every tear and laugh.

After the heartfelt speeches and a delicious wedding breakfast, it was time for the cake cutting and first dance. The energy on the dance floor was electric, and I was right there to capture every dynamic moment. It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable day.

Final Thoughts: A Perfect Winter Wedding

Despite the storm, this wedding remains one of my absolute favourites of 2024. The rain, the chaos, and the unexpected twists all came together to create the perfect atmosphere for documentary wedding photography. It was a day full of real moments, emotions, and love, and I couldn’t have asked for a better way to close out the year.

If you’re planning a winter wedding in London, don’t let the weather worry you—it can add an unforgettable cinematic touch to your wedding photography. Here’s to more rainy London weddings in the future!