Testing times – photography in a dark space
by Kerry McNair
I’ve spent the last few weeks organising a styled wedding shoot, spending time putting together a team of local Kent and Sussex vendors who I knew would provide the high quality, sophisticated edge I was looking for.
I really wanted to challenge myself with this shoot and move away from my comfort zone. I’m a natural light photographer and love capturing those special moments bathed in sunlight, in light airy rooms or out in the open. But not all weddings are like this.
Many people have their special day during winter when natural light is scarce. Venues can often be darker too, and if it’s raining (like it has been recently) the challenge to find the light is even greater. So rather than stick to what I know, I decided my styled shoot would be a test of my talent and so I started looking at indoor venues.
An atmospheric setting
As soon as I walked through the doors of the Courthouse Doubletree Hotel in London, I knew I’d found the place for my styled wedding shoot. It’s a unique, quirky venue which was once an old court house – Mick Jagger and John Lennon were tried here in the 70s! The style of the building harks back to that era, with dark wooden panelling and very little natural light. It’s a stunning space, but definitely posed a challenge!
Dark glamour
To fit with the luxurious feel of the venue, I styled the shoot in reds and blacks to give a glamorous, high end look. The final result is exactly what I wanted – an atmospheric, lavish shoot that challenged my photography skills. Take a look for yourself on my blog and let me know what you think.
All the vendors I worked with are local businesses, so if you’re planning a winter wedding or your venue has that dark, sultry feel, I can highly recommend each and every one to help you create your dream wedding.
Kerry x
Who was involved in the shoot
- Photography Kerry McNair
- Hotel venue, hair & makeup – Carly from Courthouse Doubletree
- Cake – Zoe from Linden Cakes of Mayfield
- Flowers – Sarah from Broadview Florists
- Lingerie – Julie from Boo Boo Burlesque
- Suit – Claire from A Suit That Fits
- Favours – Lau from French Made
- Wedding & engagement rings – Andrew from Aurum jewellers
- Wedding dress – Nicole from Frou Frou Bridal Boutique
- Lighting & 2nd photographer – Nigel from Studio Ferguson
- Bride & groom models – Chessie & Ben
