This afternoon on the blog we’re thrilled to introduce another of our very talented Brides Up North Sponsors, Paul of Paul Liddement Wedding Stories.
As the name of his business suggests, Paul is very much about getting to know his clients and telling their
individual love stories
through his images on their big day.Looking at his work it’s clear to see that Paul’s personable approach pays off as couples relax in front of the lens and their genuine feelings for each other shine through. What’s more, Mr Liddement is also a master at capturing guests’ emotions and all the little details that bring the whole story together.
Now let’s hear from the main man himself about his work (and passion)…
How did you get into wedding photography?
paul says:
I have a teaching background as a professionally qualified teacher, I taught media studies to 13 to18-year-olds as well photography classes. Having this background is essential to my work as I have to understand individuals’ needs and direct large groups of people.I began dabbling in the dark room in 1998, and in 2006 I shot my first wedding. My professional company was set up in 2012 due to demand. One thing for sure about this game is, you can’t teach – art and creative styles is what sets photographers apart.
Why did you want to do wedding photography specifically?
I think it ticks a lot of boxes for me. I get to meet great people, travel the world, see fantastic venues and be amongst the loved up. Seeing two people’s connection come together in the setting of their choice is fascinating to me, the way they harmonise themselves and can be best of themselves at that moment in time is priceless.
What is your favourite thing about being a wedding photographer?
My favourite thing about my work is that I have a lot of creative freedom, so I can create people’s wedding stories the way they want them to be told and the way that I see them.
How do you get couples to relax on the day?
The best way to keep a couple relaxed is to a. keep your eye on all of the events and understand people’s needs and the structure of the day. b. be everybody’s best friend. Think like a person of action, act like a person of thought. Telling a wedding story requires a very personal approach.
Any advice to brides who don’t like to have their picture taken?
All brides are beautiful, which is why they are getting married. Understanding a bride’s feelings, their little traits, their little smiles and their little quirks should be the aim of the photography. Everyone takes a naturally good picture if you understand them.
What sort of makeup should a bride wear to look great in her pictures?
I think enough to complement a skin texture to keep it looking soft, as well as keeping a little vibrancy to catch the eye, but not too much.
Anything to avoid which might look bad in the wedding pictures?
Your wedding is about looking your best because not only is it the best day of your life, but it is the day you will always reflect and admire the most. Dress so you have some physical flexibility on the day and so you look comfortable in your images.
Which celebrity wedding would you most like to photograph and why?
My style is classy, creative and fun, so it is a perfect fit for a creative celebrity wedding, such as an actor, comedian or singer. I couldn’t put my finger on who because I’m too diverse.
Any really memorable weddings that you have captured?
I will always have a special place in my heart for my New York wedding. I had never been there before and we covered so much stuff together with the couple, the fact that I was taking pictures was kind of bonus. We toured the charm of Central Park’s many locations and vibrant entertainers and flew over Manhattan via helicopter and sailed by the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge by night which was breathtakingly romantic. We finished the wedding with a quirky, drunken trip to Times Square for some great fun with the tourists. An unforgettable experience.
Tell us about your wedding day?
My day was very traditional and for the first time I understood what it was like being the one getting married and afterwards I was able to reflect on what my requirements were. This was instrumental to my ‘wedding stories’ approach of my own business as I look at each wedding as if I’m in the clients’ shoes.
Any funny stories to share?
Plenty, but I have a non-disclosure policy (smiley face).
What sets you apart from other wedding photographers?
I don’t really see myself as having any competition and that’s not in an arrogant sense, as there are some remarkable craftspeople out there. But people are coming to me for my work and my approach to their day, which comes back to what I describe as art. I see myself as an artist and what sets me apart is that my clients have picked me because they love what I do.
What can a couple who book you expect on the day?
I’d say 40% storytelling, 20% friendship, 20% creativity and 20% documenting.
What is included in your ‘package’?
My work is very individual, so choosing me for your wedding isn’t simply about packages, it’s about hiring an artist. I tend to cover whole days only though.
Can you give us an idea on price?
My pricing is very reasonable, I currently charge £1325 for a full day and I am mostly fully booked for 2016. My work is tailor made and I am one of your guests for the day.
How can Brides Up North get in touch with you or see more examples of your work?
Via my global website: www.easyapple.co.uk
