You know when a wedding just feels right from the get-go? That was James and Charlotte’s day at Brinsop Court in Herefordshire — full of relaxed energy, stunning scenery, and a couple who were clearly, undeniably smitten with each other.

Set deep in the Hereford countryside, Brinsop Court is one of those venues that makes your jaw drop a little when you arrive. It’s historic, surrounded by hills and trees, complete with a moat (!), and even has a separate reception venue tucked away onsite. It’s the kind of place that feels like a hidden gem — elegant but not overdone, romantic but not stuffy. Basically, a dream for a documentary wedding photographer in the West Midlands.

A Calm Start With Sunshine & Smiles

The day kicked off exactly how you’d want it to: relaxed, happy, and with just enough buzz to make it feel exciting. Charlotte got ready with her bridesmaids, while James arrived with his groomsmen and had a couple of drinks in the sun as they sorted buttonholes and had a bit of a laugh. It was warm, still, and dry — basically perfect wedding weather (which, let’s be honest, is never a guarantee in the UK).

An Outdoor Ceremony with All the Feels

The ceremony took place on the lawn next to the moat, and it was every bit as lovely as it sounds. Picture this: Charlotte walking down the aisle, surrounded by family and friends, the moat glinting in the background... and James? He completely lost it in the best way — a proper emotional moment that had everyone welling up. No fuss, no frills, just a beautifully peaceful outdoor ceremony.

Candid Moments, Real Emotions

My approach is always rooted in fun, candid, and storytelling wedding photography, and this day was packed with moments that made my job easy. I mostly blend in and let the day unfold naturally, but I stepped in where needed for the group shots and a little direction when the light was too good to ignore.

Some of my favourite shots? James and Charlotte walking hand-in-hand to the reception venue, just the two of them giggling and taking it all in. Later, they perched on the bridge, swinging their feet and chatting about their day. Those quiet, unposed moments are what I live for — they say everything without saying anything.

I also used some drone shots to give their gallery that full story feel — the scale of the venue, the golden hour light, and just how tucked-away and magical Brinsop Court really is.

A Reception with Laughter, Lawn Games & Legendary Dance Moves

The reception was held in a gorgeous oak-beamed space with a big lawn where guests played games and soaked up the sun. It felt like a relaxed garden party that slowly built into a full-on dancefloor explosion by the evening.

James’ brother (also his best man) had everyone in stitches with a speech about the time James was caught nicking a sausage roll — the kind of story that really brings the room together. And shoutout to Josh, the bridesman, who absolutely owned the dancefloor later on. Wild moves. No notes.

Everyone there made me and the videographer, James Evans, feel genuinely welcome — which honestly makes such a difference. When the guests are warm, the couple’s relaxed, and the vibes are right, the photos just flow.

Thinking of Getting Married at Brinsop Court?

If you're dreaming of a day that’s stylish, relaxed, and genuinely beautiful without being over the top — Brinsop Court is a winner. The surroundings are stunning, the light is dreamy, and the whole place has this quiet confidence about it.

And if you're after natural and relaxed wedding photography in Worcestershire, Warwickshire, Shropshire, Gloucestershire, or Herefordshire — or you're looking for a documentary wedding photographer in the West Midlands who’ll capture the real moments without making it weird — I’d love to hear from you.

James and Charlotte’s day was exactly what wedding photography should be about: real people, real moments, and real love.