Relaxed Ilkeston wedding photographer creating natural, documentary wedding photos full of light and genuine moments. I offer engagement shoots and wedding highlight films.
I’m Dave — an Ilkeston-based wedding photographer who specialises in relaxed, documentary wedding photography for laid-back couples who love natural light and outdoorsy vibes. My aim is simple: to be part of your day, not in the way of it. I capture the nerves, the laughs, the confetti chaos and the dancefloor mayhem with a gentle, unobtrusive style that leaves you free to enjoy the party. My approach is rooted in storytelling. Rather than forcing poses, I watch for the moments that matter and use natural light to keep images fresh, bright and true to the feel of your day. Whether you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, a rustic barn wedding or an intimate backyard celebration, I work to deliver professional wedding photos that look and feel like you — joyful, honest and full of personality. Meeting you before the big day is important to me. I love a relaxed consultation and often recommend an engagement photoshoot so you can get comfortable in front of the camera and we can learn how to work together — it makes the wedding day easy and natural. On the day I move quietly through your celebration, capturing candid interactions and stepping in for short, fun portraits so you can get back to your guests. I also offer wedding videography highlights, filmed alongside my photography with a second shooter, for couples who want a five-minute keepsake of the day. While my main focus is wedding photography, I occasionally shoot engagement sessions, family and pet sessions, and run hands-on photography workshops — all with the same friendly, down-to-earth approach. Before photography I was a primary school teacher, which taught me patience, how to put people at ease and how to get the best from shy or excitable subjects. Those skills translate directly into the calm, enjoyable experience I aim to provide on wedding days. If you’re looking for a wedding day photographer in Ilkeston and across Nottinghamshire who values authenticity over stiff formality, I’d love to chat. Expect natural, joy-filled images, a relaxed photographer who fits in with your vibe, and keepsake photos that let you relive the real emotions of your day for years to come.