Steve Bates is a specialist wedding photographer in Bristol. He captures natural, unobtrusive wedding photos that tell the story of your day, creating timeless images you'll treasure.
Steve Bates Photographer specialises in wedding photography based in Bristol, with years of experience capturing wedding days across the South West. My approach is simple: I create natural, unobtrusive images that tell the story of your day. I look for the quiet moments, the laughter and the little details that make each celebration unique, so your wedding photos feel authentic and timeless rather than staged. I pride myself on a friendly, professional and affordable service. From our first conversation to the delivery of your images, I aim to put you at ease and build a relaxed atmosphere where real moments can unfold. Many couples choose an engagement shoot before the wedding — a calm, informal session that doubles as a rehearsal and helps you feel comfortable in front of the camera on the big day. On the wedding day I favour a documentary-led style while remaining ready to create classic portraits when you want them. That balance means you get candid, emotional reportage alongside striking bridal and couple portraits. I work unobtrusively around you and your guests so I capture genuine emotion without disrupting the flow of the day. My home studio in Brislington is available for consultations and portrait sessions, and I regularly photograph weddings, engagement shoots and related moments across Bristol, Bath, Taunton, Weston-super-Mare and wider Somerset. While wedding photography is my core focus, I also offer family and portrait sessions and occasional photobooth work for receptions — always ensuring the primary emphasis remains on documenting your wedding-day story with care and consistency. Choosing Steve Bates Photographer means choosing a wedding-day photographer who values warmth, reliability and visual storytelling. I work closely with couples to understand what matters most to them, tailoring my approach so your photographs reflect your personalities and the atmosphere of your day. The result is a thoughtfully curated collection of professional wedding photos you can display, share and revisit for years to come. If you’re planning a wedding in Bristol or the South West and want natural, unobtrusive wedding photography that captures the real moments, get in touch to discuss how I can help preserve your memories.