Fine art wedding photographer based in Gateshead. Cristina blends visual storytelling, artful curation and a calming presence to create timeless wedding and engagement photography.
Cristina Ilao is a fine art wedding photographer based in Gateshead whose practice centres on thoughtful visual storytelling. With a refined eye for light, composition and detail, Cristina captures the emotional rhythm of your wedding day — from gentle, unguarded moments to the considered, editorial portraits that become heirlooms. Why choose Cristina? Her work combines artful curation with a documentary sensitivity: she seeks the candid, heartfelt moments that tell your story while subtly guiding portraits so you feel relaxed and natural in front of the camera. Couples describe her warmth and calming presence as a rare bonus — many say it felt like being photographed by a friend, which helps even camera-shy partners enjoy beautiful, authentic photographs. What makes her approach special is the marriage of fine art aesthetics and practical experience shooting weddings across the UK, France and European destinations. Whether you’re planning an intimate micro wedding in the Cotswolds, an English manor celebration near London, or a sunlit Provencal ceremony, Cristina frames each scene with an editorial sensibility that highlights atmosphere, fabrics, florals and architecture. Her portfolio demonstrates a preference for luminous, light-filled images and a soft, timeless palette that flatters both people and place. How she works with clients: Cristina believes in collaboration and calm planning. From initial conversations to the wedding day, she focuses on listening — understanding your priorities, your timeline and the little details that matter. On the day she blends unobtrusive reportage with considered portrait time, creating room for natural interactions while crafting composed, elegant family and couple images. Engagement sessions are available to help couples feel comfortable together on camera before the wedding day, building a relaxed rapport that shows in the final gallery. Driven by a deep love of weddings and a background in editorial shoots, Cristina is motivated by creating photographs that feel as beautiful on the wall as they do in an album. If you want refined, emotive wedding photography from a Gateshead-based photographer with international destination experience, Cristina offers a considered, joyful approach to preserving your day.