The Federation of Wedding Photographers and Videographers Proudly introduces
Meet Gary Williams
I'm Gary Williams, a documentary wedding photography based in London. My work has been displayed in galleries across the world, published in books, the New York Times, displayed on billboards and (my favourite) printed on tea-towels!
What do you love about weddings?
There’s a bit of stigma amongst photographers that wedding photography isn't really cool. People sometimes think it's trivial, boring and repetitive. I completely reject that. I know it sounds like a line from a sales brochure, but for me it really is a huge privilege to be entrusted by a couple to photograph their wedding day. Wedding photography might not be as “cool” as fashion photography but it’s way more important. It’s about real life and making memories with the people you love. It matters. It lasts. It's certainly never boring or repetitive because every couple, every family and every wedding is unique. I love taking photographs, so to earn a living around people on the happiest of days is a real privilege.
What is your favourite part of a wedding to capture?
I love the preparations and time with the couple just after the ceremony. For prep there is always an air of excitement, anticipation with a little sizzle of nervous energy. It's so nice to be around. I also find it's a great place for the candid style of photography I love.
When the ceremony is over and I take the couple aside for a short photo shoot, it's usually the first moment they have had alone (other than me) together since the day began and certainly as a married couple. I think that's magical. I don't usually pose my couples. I just give them some basic direction then step back and give them space to be themselves. All I have to do is photograph what's in front of me.
How would you describe your style?
I am documentary style 90% of the day. The other 10% is formal group shots (for grandmas's mantle) and the shots with the couple which is directed but not posed. The sooner people get used to me being there and ignore me, the better!
What one piece of advice would you give to a couple planning their wedding?
Forward planning is always good. As far as photography is concerned, first decide what kind of style you're into: candid, editorial, fine art, traditional, film, black and white... there's a whole world out there. Once you have your style find some photographers and have a good look at their portfolio. Meet with them in person or over Zoom and make sure you feel totally comfortable with them. You'll be spending a lot of time with them on your big day so it's really important you trust them and enjoy their vibe.
What areas do you cover and are you happy to travel?
I'm always happy to travel but as I live in Islington I prefer weddings in or around London.
Get in touch with Gary Williams Photography now...
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