Jay Whittaker is a Durham-based wedding photographer specialising in documentary wedding photography with an editorial twist. He captures relaxed, natural wedding photos that feel honest and timeless.
If you want wedding photos that feel like your day rather than a photoshoot, Jay Whittaker is the Durham wedding photographer who delivers that mix of heart and style. Jay specialises in documentary wedding photography with a refined editorial twist — photographing the real, unscripted moments that make your day uniquely yours while polishing key portraits with composure and craft. Why choose Jay? He builds genuine connections with couples so the camera becomes an easy, familiar presence. Jay’s approach is relaxed and conversational: no stiff poses, no awkward instructions. Instead, he uses natural prompts, gentle direction and a lot of humour (yes, terrible dad jokes included) to help couples relax, laugh, and be themselves. The result is candid, emotive wedding photos that feel effortless and beautifully composed. His style sits between pure reportage and editorial portraiture. Jay reads the room — knowing when to blend into the background to capture candid emotion and when to step forward to create a polished portrait. That balance means you get a gallery of honest documentary moments alongside dreamy, editorial images you’ll want on your walls. Working with Jay is an experience built around trust. He begins with a conversation — a Zoom or an in-person chat — to understand your vision and the vibe you want. Over the lead-up to the wedding he becomes a friendly, calming presence, so on the day you feel cared for rather than directed. Jay’s aim is simple: keep things easygoing, capture the in-between bits, and make sure your photos reflect how you actually felt that day. Based in the North East and centred in Durham, Jay covers weddings across the UK and is open to destination celebrations. His galleries are curated with an eye for light, emotion and narrative so each image contributes to the story of your day. Couples commonly describe him as a calm, encouraging presence who makes them feel like they’re spending time with a mate who happens to have a camera. If you value authentic moments, relaxed direction and professional, editorial wedding photography rooted in documentary storytelling, Jay Whittaker offers a thoughtful, personal approach that honours your story and delivers wedding photos you’ll cherish for a lifetime.