The Federation of Wedding Photographers and Videographers Proudly introduces
Meet Rafe Abrook
I'm Rafe. I constantly fight a losing battle to be noticed for my wedding photography, over my exceptional height (6'8 as it happens). That said, I remain focussed, and undeterred in my quest. Aside from photography, I also love cars, running, basketball, music and humour. I live with my (soon to be wife), Sian and our 4 kids aged between 16 and 20. My 4 cars probably don't deserve a mention here, but I am giving them one anyway, and yes I do talk to them sometimes.
Tell me more about these cars then?
OK, if you absolutely insist. Currently it's a fleet of 4, with the main 3 which were all German a year ago, now replaced with old(ish) British modern classics: A 2009 Range Rover Vogue TDV8, a 2007 Jaguar XKR Convertible, and a 1988 Bentley Mulsanne, bought from new by David Coulthard's Dad, Duncan!
Tell me about your Highlights Film Package?
So, earlier in 2024 I decided to finally embrace learning how to use my cameras to produce film. Some people call it 'Hybrid Shooting' but effectively I prioritise taking still images as usual, but also record 2-3 second film clips through the day, and make them into a mini-movie for my wedding couples. It's the best way of aligning the look of your still image gallery and your wedding film, as the latter is like a movie version of the main gallery.
How do you manage to do both when certain key moments are short and fleeting?
One of the requirements to adding my Highlights Film package, is to add a Second Photographer. These enable me to film confetti (for example) while my Second gets the still images for me. This also works for Bride's Entrance, First Kiss, First Dance etc. My films are approx 5mins long, which is more than long enough for today's shortened attention spans, and gets a surprising amount of the day packed in!
How would you describe your Photography Style?
I've often found it tricky to define this, but ultimately I shoot weddings the way I would want my own shot. That's all we can do as photographers! So although I am predominantly a Documentary Style Photographer, I really do take pride and joy in creating gorgeous Bride & Groom portraits as well. They key to my style is to make sure everything has a natural, organic feel to it, and that I don't force my will on any part of the day. Having said that, I am very good at being subtly assertive when it matters, to ensure no opportunities are missed! But I passionately look to avoid any cringey situations, that would make anyone feel uncomfortable.
What areas do you cover and are you happy to travel?
I'm based in Hertfordshire, but I'll go anywhere for the right wedding. I recently shot an absolute cracker in Abruzzo, Italy for example. The couple live in the States, and had no connection to the UK, but having seen how I shoot and edit skin tones, they decided they had to have me!
Get in touch with Rafe Abrook Photography now...
