Tag Archives: wedding photography melbourne

New review

Whats that you say? You want to read another review for my Melbourne wedding photography services? Well, you’re in luck! This one came was posted by Monika & Andrew this week on TrueLocal:

We wanted a journalistic candid style photographer for our wedding and they were perfect. On the day they were unassuming and actually you could hardly tell staff was there but captured our day perfectly and even the sentiment on the day – which is something few photographers can do. We had a few dramas leading up to the wedding but they were accommodating and flexible to move with the few changes we had to make – they were always relaxed and professional throughout the wedding day. The end result was a fantastic wedding album one where we have people say it’s the best one they have ever seen – more importantly we love it as it reflects us. Thanks again – if only we could do it again – ha ha we actually did!

Read more Melbourne Wedding Photography reviews

Excellent
Based on 43 reviews
Karolina Carrera
Karolina Carrera
Thank you Simon from Wedding Snapper for your fabulous photos of our special day. And you did it all with ease and a smile on your face, even though it was a scorcher of a day weather wise! We highly recommend your wedding photography service and your elopement package. Karolina and Shane.
Max Wright
Max Wright
I don't think it's possible to find a better photographer than Simon. He made the entire process smooth, has a keen eye for detail, a winning personality and worked closely with us to capture exactly what we wanted for the day. Simon also seems to have an uncanny ability to be everywhere at once - no angle went un-captured! Seriously, if you're considering a wedding photographer, just book this guy. You won't regret it
Steph N
Steph N
I can't recommend Simon enough. His experience and know-how kept our wedding day feeling easy and fun and the photos turned out beautifully. The wedding photography from start to finish was so simple to arrange and came together perfectly. For a professional who is a delight to work with, Wedding Snapper is a perfect choice.
Christel starke
Christel starke
An easy going, relaxed photographer that produced beautiful, natural photos.
Breannen Conway
Breannen Conway
Simon was a pleasure to work with and was amazing at capturing our day. He was very professional, yet made everyone feel welcome and comfortable. We had so many of our guests tell us that he was the nicest photographer they have experienced at a wedding! All of our pictures were beautiful too :)
Rahi Shakerian
Rahi Shakerian
Simon captured our wedding in December 2021 and we love the photos. We had enough to deal with thanks to covid but working with Simon was a breeze. Professional, organised and a calming sense of humour. Prior to the day he scoped out Fitzroy for the perfect shots which made our session seamless and we returned just in time for family photos. He also did a great job of shooting the ceremony and party afterwards. He's a complete package and we'd happily use him again.
Sandra Bee (fullboost87)
Sandra Bee (fullboost87)
Highly recommend Simon to do your wedding photography. I was so happy with our photos and his attention to detail is amazing. I wanted quality photos to capture our day and he delivered. Sandra & Alex
Callum Padgett
Callum Padgett
Simon is fantastic! He is friendly, professional and works closely with you so you get exactly the photos you want for your wedding. He didn't just capture the day, he captured the atmosphere and all the little moments that make the day special. He even gave two guests a lift home near the end of the night because he was passing their way! Lovely man and very talented photographer.
Kerrianne Muller
Kerrianne Muller
Where do we even begin. We new from the beginning that Simon was the right photographer for our day. We would be more then happy to recommend Simon to photograph anyone's celebration. Simon photographed our wedding just over a month ago and we are extremely impressed with the way Simon was able to make us feel relax and enjoy the time capturing our special day. We got in touch with Simon via his website and arranged the whole thing via email due to us living in another state. Simon was professional and approachable about any request and ideas. Simon understood what we were wanting from our of photos and delivered. The turn around for our photos was quick and easy. We would get Simon to do any future photographs in a heart beat. Even gives you good tips on places to visit. Thank you again Simon, Tim and Kerrianne.

Jenna & Tim’s engagement shoot…..with animal heads

Jenna & Tim didn’t want the straight forward engagement shoot, so instead decided to get hold of some over-sized animal heads.
As you might know, I prefer things to be a little off-kilter so jumped at the chance to photograph it for them.

We took in some of the often used sights around Melbourne for engagement and wedding photography, but with the heads, they seem to take on a different, almost surreal feel!

Their cute little Pug came along for some of the shots too. What a smart little fella he looked in that jacket!

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By Simon Woodcock of Melbourne Wedding Photographers Wedding Snapper

Key Wedding Photography Moments

You big day has arrived. And yes, it’s only one day. This means that your wedding photographer has quite a narrow window in which to capture all of those fleeting wedding moments.

It’s important to establish a list of essential shots before the wedding day, to ensure that everything – from the details of the dress, to the beaming smile on the groom’s face when he sees the bride walk down the aisle – are captured on camera.

Make sure that you have a range of delicate detail-shots. These include accessories, as well as dress features even the places names on the tables. You’ll be amazed at how all of these smaller minutiae pass you by in the buzz of the reception. Ensure they’re not forgotten by having them photographed in all their glory before they’re promptly packed away or hidden by food and drink.

Preparation photographs are standard wedding photography fare, and are a wonderful way to preserve all of those pre-wedding thrills and spills. Bride-and-parents shots can be particularly special for all concerned. It’s also a great way to get some fun, candid shots of the bride interacting with her bridesmaids. Substitute solemn, posed photos with more spontaneous shots.

For the groomsmen, getting-ready images are often good fun. The lads do tend to be finished dressing much sooner than the ladies, so why don’t you suggest some fun shots with the groom’s party? Get some candid images of them sharing jokes, enjoying a drink or taking a walk.

Don’t forget your guests. Reception photographs are important, as they often capture some things you may have missed. Grandparents ripping up the dance floor? Best man taking advantage of the open bar? A dexterous photographer will ensure that nothing escapes the lens. These images tend to be both surprising and touching, and give a more unprompted impression of the wedding day.
Thankfully, most photographers have long lists of standard shots they generally try to capture. Consult with us before the big day to detail what you would like to be photographed to help tell your individual story.

Contact Simon to book YOUR Melbourne wedding photography!

Now THATS what I call a wedding disco!

I recently had the pleasure of photographing Amy & Vikram’s wedding at the Treacy Centre, Parkville, Melbourne.

Aside the usual wedding highlights, was the fact that they had managed to convince veteran soul DJ and PBS FM host Vince Peach to spin some of his favourite 7″s on the night.

I love vinyl!  It’s so much more atmospheric and tactile than your average MP3!  OK, so I might be a bit nostalgic having offloaded most of my vinyl prior to leaving London for Melbourne, but there is a certain amount of ceremony that goes with playing a record that you simply don’t experience with selecting a digital file.  Anyone remember the heavyweight 12″ vinyl? Maybe it’s time I re-invested in a turntable…

Wedding Photography Melbourne

Any theories?

Wedding photography in Melbourne can sometimes throw up the odd surprise…
Following some photographs with Jess & Michael at Parliament, we wandered to Treasury Gardens for something a little greener in the photos.
We stumbled across this on the way:

wedding photographers melbourne

Do you have a theory about it? Was it a disgruntled ex boyfriend/girlfriend making their feelings known at a wedding at the Melbourne registry? Was it an alternative publicity stunt? Do you recognise the handwriting? Comment below – I’d love to know the story behind it!

Wedding Photography Melbourne

Finding a Melbourne wedding photographer

We all know that planning your Melbourne wedding photography can be a difficult choice so it’s a good idea to look around for a wedding photographer that is both within budget and suited to your style. Here we offer a few tips on what to look for when selecting your affordable Melbourne wedding photographer to capture the day you would like to remember it.

Photographers will naturally show you their best work, and if their best work does not appeal to you, then you should look elsewhere.

Try to imagine yourself in the photos – do you fit in? If you want relaxed casual photos, you need to see photos that have a relaxed casual feeling. If you want edgy, artistic photos or something more traditional, that is what they should show you.

A photographers personality is important. Spending a large part of your wedding day with someone who you find irritating is going to end in tears! Make sure you meet the photographer who will be shooting your wedding and talk to them. Do they make you feel at ease and relaxed? The more relaxed you feel on your wedding day, the more natural you will look in your photos.

Choosing a professional photographer entitles you to expect that they will behave in a professional manner and they should provide you with a contract describing exactly what they are providing. They should be able to answer all of your questions confidently and make suggestions about photography locations in Melbourne or the Yarra Valley.

Most importantly, they should be prepared for any situation. Your Melbourne and Yarra Valley wedding photographers should carry back up cameras, have back up plans to cover bad weather and be able to think on their feet when the unexpected happens.

With weddings often busting their budgets, you need to make your choices based on what you can afford. Your photographs are, however, one of the few items on your wedding budget that are an investment rather than an expense, with their value growing into the future and your old age. If you find the photographer you like, but they are a little expensive, you can always examine your budget to see if you can downsize some aspects in order to book the best photographer.

 

Melbourne Wedding Photography Locations

Finding the perfect wedding venue is just as important as finding a recommended Melbourne wedding photographer to capture your special day.

We really enjoy couples out with their planning and always have some great suggestions for venues that help to create those special wedding photographs that you’ll still be enjoying in years to come.

In no particular order, these are some of our favourite wedding photography locations in Melbourne:

Montsalvat, for it’s unique and quirky vibe. It’s a great location for really atmospheric wedding photography in Melbourne as it evokes an artisan community of somewhere in Europe. Quite a special and unusual place! Wedding packages also include photography permits in the grounds of the property. The Great Hall, ornamental pond and bluestone chapel are all worth viewing.

The National Trust’s Labassa in Caulfield is a unique heritage listed building with embossed wallpaper, stained glass windows, opulent furniture and a spectacular staircase. Melbourne wedding photography doesn’t get more impressive!  Permits and access do need to be organised in advance.  From memory, it costs around $500 for one hour’s access.

Melbourne’s GPO building is not only great for shopping, but it’s gorgeous arches and classic style of architecture lend it to a wedding photography location perfectly. Soft in colour with it’s neutral tones, couples look stunning here in the afternoon light. This is also a good spot for shelter on a rainy day.

The Hotel Windsor is an iconic Melbourne landmark that needs no introduction. With it’s imposing entrance and grand stature, it makes a great backdrop. The interior staircase is also incredibly grand, with many corridors leading off it for some good options.

Carlton’s Royal Exhibition Building is not only one of Melbourne’s most prominent buildings, but it’s also a UNESCO world heritage listed building and more importantly one of our favourite locations for wedding photography in Melbourne. With it’s beautiful dome, manicured gardens, avenue of trees and impressive fountains, it has several impressive locations within a small area – perfect for tired feet or on a hot day.

 

It doesn’t matter which part of Melbourne your wedding day is held, we’ll always find interesting and artistic wedding photography locations for your photos.

Beauty can be found almost anywhere – sometimes it can just mean the cropping of  ‘messy’ backgrounds to keep the balance of the photograph intact or embracing graffiti or a dark dingy laneway for moody shots.

We will discuss suitable locations prior to your wedding day and constantly scout during your shoot – keeping our eyes open for points of interest.

Where we shoot can sometimes depend on the weather. If it rains on your wedding day, we’ll have a back-up plan and have already compiled a list of undercover wedding photography locations in Melbourne.

 

What are the most popular wedding photography locations in Melbourne?

In no particular order, here are some of the most popular wedding photography locations around Melbourne:

  • Victoria Barracks
  • The Yarra Boatsheds
  • Brighton Beach Boxes
  • Parliament of Victoria steps and building
  • Melbourne Zoo
  • Hosier Lane / ACDC Lane & nerarby graffiti laneways
  • Melbourne Aquarium
  • Luna Park, St Kilda
  • Williamstown – Nelson Place, Pier & Boatsheds
  • Treasury Gardens
  • Fitzroy Gardens
  • Fed Square
  • Bridges over the Yarra River
  • Melbourne Botanic Gardens (permit required)
  • Windsor Hotel
  • Flinders Street Station
  • Fitzroy Town Hall
  • South Melbourne Town Hall
  • Port Melbourne beach
  • St Kilda pier
  • St Patrick’s Cathedral
  • Studley Park & Boathouse
  • Melbourne University (permit required)
  • Exterior of ACCA
  • Luxury boutiques and stores on Collins street
  • St Paul’s Cathedral, Flinders St
  • Melbourne Aquarium (needs to be organised in advance)

 

Although we don’t love all the locations listed above, they are definitely popular with alot of couples.  Feel free to ask which ones we think would work best with your wedding plans.

We’re always open to new ideas so if there is somewhere special to you, or something you’ve seen that you’d like to incorporate into your own wedding photos then please feel free to suggest it.

What if my wedding venue doesn’t have a photography location?

There are a few tricky spots around Melbourne, which don’t have an immediately obvious place for photos between ceremony and reception locations, but here we list a few of the not-so-hidden gems that we have discovered over the years, that might be useful on your wedding day:

 

East Melbourne/Richmond

Photography locations around Fenix can be a bit uninspiring at times, especially if you’re short on time.  The Yarra, doesn’t always work well in that area as it’s hard to get a good angle on it, and space is limited due to the width of the path along the river.

There are two spots which couples who have hosted weddings at Fenix have enjoyed using for their photos; the first being the vacant bush block next to the apartments which are adjacent to the restaurant.  The long grass can make it look like you’re in the Yarra Valley rather than inner Melbourne which is a nice contrast to all the city photos.

Secondly, and again nearby to Fenix, is Burnley Gardens. The gardens are part of the University of Melbourne’s Burnley campus and close to Yarra River.  Fortunately there is no permit required to take photos here, and plenty of good options for photos with well kept gardens and several older style buildings.

 

North Melbourne/Moonee Ponds

Moonee Ponds is a tricky area for wedding photography, but does have one location which has come to the rescue on several occasions – Queens Park.

Adjacent to St Monica’s Catholic Church it serves well as a location for both family photos and also for photos with just the couple.  See the link above for samples of wedding photography in Queens Park, Moonee Ponds.

A little further over to the west is Pipemakers Park, which has a few interesting locations for photos, but not much in the way of shelter, if it’s either raining or a very hot day.

 

Brighton/Beaumauris/Bayside

As lovely as this area and it’s beaches can be, it does, on first sight, seem to be lacking in wedding photography locations.

Fear not, we have a few suggestions for you.

If you’re close to Elwood or hosting your wedding at Elwood Bathers and you don’t wish to make use of the beach or would prefer a building to work with or use as a backdrop (or need some shelter), Star of the Sea school/ANZAC hostel in Kamesburgh Gardens is a pleasant spot, with elegant columns on the building, a small terrace, fountain and towering palm trees.

Across the road at the St James Catholic Parish Primary School is a more historic building which works well for wedding photos, although it’s not always accessible so get your wedding photographer to scope it out first.

Weddings at Sandringham Yacht Club can be lovely, but if it’s blowing a gale and you’d prefer something other than the beach in your photos, there are a couple of good locations in Sandringham that have fresh, untagged graffiti that runs for about 20 metres in total.

A little further down the bay towards Mentone and Beaumauris is Half Moon Bay & Red Bluff, with it’s vibrant orange coloured sandstone cliffs that really pop in wedding photos.  Be warned that it can be quite a busy sport during the summer months so you may be sharing it with swimmers in their budgie smugglers.

 

Williamstown/Newport/Altona

Williamstown obviously has it’s beautiful Botanic Gardens, which look great in wedding photos, but do require a permit from the local council.  With that said, I shot some wedding photos there without realising and nobody stopped us so it’s probably worth taking the risk and saving a few dollars!

On Simcock Avenue in Newport  there is a wall of well kept and fun graffiti that runs for about 100 metres in total and has a variety of styles, ranging from abstract to divers and sea creatures.    A great spot and doesn’t seem to be very popular for wedding photos to date, and is perfect for weddings at Two Birds Brewery or Scienceworks as it’s just around the corner.

The beach at Altona is also a good option for photos at sunset, with plenty of beach and bush area to work with.  I shot some photos there recently and really enjoyed the location. Also, you won’t be overrun with other wedding groups as there is plenty of space for everyone.

 Do you have a suggestion for a wedding photography location in Melbourne? We’d love to hear it!

Williamstown wedding

Sometimes it’s the simple things which make a memorable photo.

wedding photographers melbourne

Caroline & Chris were married earlier this year on a scorching hot day in Williamstown. Not being huge fans of the camera, we let them just be themselves and take us for a walk around the Williamstown Botanic Gardens and beach while we just snapped away for some natural and relaxed wedding photography.

Melbourne Wedding Photographers

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