Real weddings by Cotswolds wedding Photographer Joab Smith

Memories

Wedding photography is about so much more than a nice few photos for instagram,
it’s about reliving the day from start to finish and getting shivers as a happy memory comes flooding back.

I aim to capture as many of those memories as possible,
here are some of the weddings I’ve been lucky to be a part of.

a just married couple dancing in front of a mountain

A French Alps Wedding

Married couple at the Kimpton Fitzroy, London. Editorial wedding photography

Kimpton Fitzroy London Wedding

Best Cotswolds Wedding Photos 2024

St Giles House Wedding Photographer

My Best Wedding Photos 2023

Sorrento & Positano Elopement on the Amalfi Coast

Winner of Best Wedding Photographer in the South West & Cotswolds 2023!

Villa Catureglio Wedding Photography

Elmore Court Wedding

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I’m a big believer in capturing a day in it’s entirety and it can be helpful when deciding on your photographer to see a full gallery from them. I’d be more than happy to send you a link if you’re interested just get in touch using the contact page and I’ll try to shoot some over which are similar in terms of venue or time of year.

Alternatively you can view more video slideshows here: My Channel

If you feel these images click with you I’d love to hear your plans. Get in touch and tell me all about them!

I’m based in the Cotswolds but love Bristol, Somerset and exploring the UK. If you’re a little further afield I try to keep costs down and will stay nearby the night before to avoid any potential travel problems.

If you like what you see and would like to have a chat and really get excited, get in touch!

Think I'd be a good fit for you and your day? Get in touch!

Kimpton Fitzroy London Wedding

I was lucky enough to photograph Alisa & Ravi as they exuded style and warmth at their beautiful Kimpton Fitzroy London wedding.

The day mixed refined style and deep love with high energy and an insane party, photos below!

The venue

The Kimpton Fitzroy delivers dramatic architecture and grand interiors. Marble staircases, high ceilings, and ornate details ideal for a beautiful wedding photos. The Palm Court and ballroom gave the wedding a classic, editorial setting.

Getting ready

The couple prepared in the hotel suites, as always I gave them space whilst capturing the key moments. Portraits here feel intimate but both Alisa, Ravi and their wedding party’s were also up for some fun.

Ceremony and portraits

The ceremony felt composed and warm. I enjoyed using the venue’s windows and symmetry for beautiful silhouettes. I also photographed natural exchanges between the couple and their guests. Portraits moved through the Palm Court, the staircase, and the ballroom. The result balanced formality with personality.

Reception and party

The band Sol and The Gang led a high energy set. Guests danced and filled the room. I shot wide frames and close action. Movement, confetti, and live music show in these images. The dancefloor moments hopefully feel as raw and alive as the energy provided on the day.

Style and approach

My approach matched the editorial brief. I directed where needed and stayed invisible for candid moments. I used a mix of posed portraits and reportage. I aimed to use lighting choices to reinforce a cinematic, modern look.

Why choose a Kimpton Fitzroy London for your wedding?

• Iconic interiors for editorial portraits.
• Flexible event spaces for ceremony and party.
• Central London location for guests and suppliers.

If you want photography that highlights both style as well as energy and emotion, this venue rewards an editorial approach.

Wedding Venue Website: Kimpton Fitzroy London

Address: 1-8 Russell Sq, London WC1B 5BE

Looking for a wedding photographer at Kimpton Fitzroy London?

Get in touch!

Best Cotswolds Wedding Photos 2024

My 14th year as a Cotswold wedding photographer was another incredible, life affirming year. So much joy, love and celebration shared in so many ways. Hopefully my photos show all of this!

I was lucky enough to capture Blue (yes Duncan and co!) storms over Italian lakes, a highly intimate ceremony of just 4 at mind blowing Holywell Hall and two of the best parties I’ve ever been to! One at the gorgeous St Giles House and another at a private residence over two days in the Cotswolds. It was another year of being a recommended photographer at Euridge Manor which will always have a special place in my heart, and it’s been a lot of fun discovering many venues new to me, like Old Gore Barn and Caswell House.

As always it wasn’t actually the fancy venues and lavish parties that made it so special, it was and will always be the people. I’ve once again cried and once again made memories that will stay with me for life. Walking in on the MOB on the toilet for example… (not my fault) we both laughed about later honest…

Please enjoy the photos below and if you’re looking for a photographer and you think I’d be a good fit for your day I’d love to hear from you, you can make an enquiry from my contact page.

Editorial Wedding

Italian lake Wedding

Editorial Wedding in London

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St Giles House Wedding Photographer

I recently had the pleasure of photographing a wedding at the breathtaking St Giles House, and let me tell you, this venue is a dream come true for anyone looking to tie the knot in an elegant, historic setting. Nestled in the in the charming village of Wimborne St Giles, Dorset, St Giles House combines timeless charm with modern decor and is one of the prettiest venues I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting.

The Wedding

Jasmine & Miles wanted classy photos to match their impeccable style, but also one hell of a party, I’ll let you be the judge!

Editoral Photography

A real St Giles House wedding

From the moment you arrive at St Giles House, you’re greeted by its stunning Georgian architecture and beautifully manicured gardens. This venue has history seeping from every corner, giving a unique character to your wedding photos. As a wedding photographer, I couldn’t have asked for a better canvas to work with.

Breathtaking Ceremony Spaces

One of the highlights of St Giles House is the variety of ceremony spaces available. Whether you’re dreaming of an outdoor garden ceremony or a more intimate indoor setting, this venue has you covered. The Great Dining Room, with its opulent decor and grand windows, is perfect for an elegant indoor ceremony. For those who prefer the outdoors, the sunken garden provides a picturesque setting surrounded by lush greenery and blooming flowers. Trust me, your photos will look straight out of a fairy tale!

Wedding Photography at Giles House

Every nook and cranny of St Giles House offers a photo opportunity. The stunning lake, the ancient trees, and the charming stone bridges all make for incredible backdrops. One of my favorite spots is the underground grotto—its mysterious and enchanting vibe adds a unique touch to any wedding album.

Luxurious Reception Spaces

After the “I dos” are exchanged, it’s time to celebrate! St Giles House offers several reception spaces that can be tailored to fit your wedding style. The parkland marquee is ideal for larger gatherings, with its panoramic views of the estate and twinkling fairy lights creating a magical atmosphere. For a more intimate setting, the Drawing Room exudes elegance with its classic decor and warm ambiance.

Final Thoughts

As a wedding photographer, I can confidently say that this venue provides endless opportunities for stunning, memorable photos. I highly recommend it. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or if you’d like to see more of my work.

Address: St Giles House, The Estate Office; Wimborne, Dorset; BH21 5NA

Looking for a photographer for your own St Giles House Wedding?

Get in touch!

My Best Wedding Photos 2023!

What a year… So much joy, fun, love and just sheer celebration, I’ve once again had an absolute blast. Sometimes it’s capturing the quiet moments that I like best, vignettes of moments of love, and sometimes (quite often actually) It’s the whole bridal party going nuts as the groom sprays champagne over everyone. This is something like my 15th year as a wedding photographer and it just gets better and better, I’m still very much in love with weddings. To the incredible couples who let me crash their party with a camera – thank you! I really can’t thank you enough in fact, I look forward to reminiscing to these photos in years to come.

Here are my favourite photos from 2023!

Euridge wedding Boat

Direct flash wedding photo

Sorrento & Positano Elopement on the Amalfi Coast

Sorrento and Positano Elopement: Photographs Of A Romantic Amalfi Coast Adventure

Below I’ll be telling you all about Hannah & Jordan’s epic elopement in Sorrento, followed by a boat ride (and a little bit of sea sickness) before arriving with style in Positano, but for now enjoy the photos!

Sorrento and Positano wedding photography

From the moment I first spoke to Hannah & Jordan I knew their Elopement in Sorrento and Positano was going to be special. It suited them perfectly. Hannah didn’t want to be the centre of attention in front of too many people during the ceremony and it meant that they could really lean into enjoying a special place together whilst focusing on each other and their new marriage together.

A Sunny Start in Sorrento

With its dramatic cliffside views and Mediterranean charm, Villa Silvana provided a luxurious start to the couple’s morning. With the help of Victoria their amazing wedding planner everything ran smoothly and before Hannah knew it it was time to leave for the ceremony.

The Ceremony at The Cloisters (Chiostro di San Francesco)

Hannah and Jordan exchanged vows at Sorrento’s historic Cloisters. Mediterranean sunlight shone onto the ancient, vine covered walls as the courtyard fell quiet and Hannah entered, but then it was smiles all the way up until the big moment, you may kiss the bride!

Taking the boat to Positano – and a little bit of seasickness..

After the ceremony, the couple embarked on a picturesque boat ride from Sorrento to Positano. This allowed them to soak in the coastal beauty of the Amalfi Coast over a couple of beers and just relax for the hours trip. There was one small problem as we arrived in Positano however.. Jordan was feeling more and more seasick and the prospect of standing at the front of the boat became daunting. Thankfully he pushed through and while we had to be very quick it does make for a great story which I doubt Hannah will let him live down!

Positano is a dream location for a wedding photographer. From the gorgeous colours to the steep winding streets it’s like a playground, I was loving every second as Hannah & Jordan made their way up to their hotel. As night fell I was able to capture just a couple more photos as Positano’s lights twinkled in the background before it was time to leave. I was exhausted from the heat but couldn’t have been happier, an experience I’ll never forget.

Planned to perfection

Credit goes to the wonderful Victoria at Sophisticated Weddings the day was incredible and perfectly tailored to Hannah & Jordan.

Dreaming of your own Sorrento or Positano elopement?

Reach out for tailored insights, venue recommendations, and photography tips, I’d love to hear from you!

Contact

Other Destination Weddings On My Blog:

Villa Catureglio, Tuscany wedding

Villa Eva Wedding, Ravello

Best Cotswolds Wedding Photographer

I won of ‘Best in the South West 2023!’

2022 was a particularly good year for me, because for the first time in my career I won the Wedding Industry Awards ‘Best in the South West’! It’s a huge honour to not just be recognised in the Cotswolds but for the whole of the South West and honestly I’m very proud. It’s judged by a mix of both professionals in the industry and couples I’ve captured in 2022 so it really means a lot that my photos have made so many people happy. I must be doing something right!

So 2022 was a doosy, but this blog is about the photos so here are a few hundred of my best of the year!

So for now I can claim to be the best wedding photographer in the Cotswolds. If you love what you see you can contact me here: https://joabsmithphotography.co.uk/contact/

Villa Catureglio Wedding Photography

Villa Catureglio wedding photography – Anil & Aneeka’s wedding at Villa Catureglio, Lucca, Tuscany.

Villa Catureglio is a short trip from the romantic Renaissance-era city of Lucca. Nestled up and hidden in the foothills of the Alpe Apuane, Tuscany. A wedding here feels luxurious and authentically Italian (the villa originally being a 13C fortified tower) but most of all it feels private, exclusive even. Guests can shout in excitement during the confetti, and dance into the night with only the local wildlife to hear you. As a wedding photographer it’s a dream. To start with it’s beautiful from every angle and there are so many different lovely spaces it was honestly hard to prioritise where to photograph! Be it in the magnificent high beamed rooms inside, or the outside ceremony space framed by cypress trees, there are picture perfect spots everywhere. As a destination wedding photographer I’ve been to many stunning places in Italy, but Villa Catureglio is one of the best I’ve seen.

The Wedding

If Aneeka and Anil could have had a better wedding day then I don’t know how. Their closest friends and family had stayed the night before and so the morning was a relaxed mix of old friends catching up and family excitedly anticipating the big day ahead. Aneeka and Anil got ready at opposite ends of the estate with plenty of room for bridesmaids, groomsmen and the odd family member to help. Meanwhile the wedding co-ordinator Lisa from Hitched in Italy had the day running as smoothly as the string quartets soft playing that surrounded the courtyard. Staff set up long tables for the wedding breakfast feast to come, rows of chairs for the ceremony on the hillside and colourful relaxed flowers provided the cherry on top.

As I dipped in and out of the venue the smell of wine and balsamic vinegar being reduced in the kitchen would hit me and I’d be forced to remind myself that there’s a whole lot to capture before it’s time to sit down for food! When it was time for the ceremony guests enjoyed seeing Anil make his entrance down the beautiful steps from the main Villa, but of course it wasn’t long before he was Aneeka would upstage him in her stunning dress, sparkling in the Tuscan sun. The ceremony was held in both Italian and English, but everybody knew when to clap as Anil kissed (and dipped!) his new bride to rapturous applause.

Confetti and festivities followed, with impressive canapés and a well stocked bar, guests laughed and shared stories as the sun began to set on this early October Day. Before long it was time for me to steal the couple away for photos and as previously mentioned it was a case of picking the best spots as there are just too many good ones to choose! The light was hitting the chapel just right and so I relished letting the couple catch up as I photographed away. I always like to give a couple some space and a wide shot with the backdrop of cypress trees was the perfect place, I was very happy with the photos and Aneeka & Anil seemed very happy with the excuse to spend a little time being close.

The night began to draw in and it was time for the real festivities to begin. Emotional speeches and three courses, followed by dessert in the form of a wedding cake made in front of our eyes! As DJ Fabio played the first dance song guests huddled into the barn, and romance turned to celebratory chaos as friends and family flooded the dancefloor. Honestly I don’t think I need to say any more about that as the photos speak for themselves…

Booking a wedding photographer for villa Catureglio

If you’re looking to book a wedding photographer for your Villa Catureglio Wedding I’d love to be considered. Get in touch below and we can start getting excited about plans!

The Location of Villa Catureglio

Address: Localita’ Italy, Catureglio, 2, 55023 Cune LU, Italy

Website: https://www.catureglio.com/

Phone: +39 349 733 9765

Province: Province of Lucca

Catering by https://www.galateoricevimenti.com/

Hair Stylist – Consuelo Cardella – Your Beauty Team – Instagram: yourbeauty_team

Florist – Rebel Rebel : https://rebelrebel.it/flower-school-tuscany

Elmore Court Wedding

Updated 17.05.24

Photographing a wedding at Elmore Court is like having a wedding venue cheat code on. How could I not take stunning photos at a grade II* listed mansion that’s been renovated to a standard so swanky that even King Henry VIII (who died just before the current house was built in 1564) would be impressed by!? I was completely captivated the first time I visited. You have beautiful old features like wonky wooden staircases, mixed with the modern brilliance of ‘The Gillyflower’. This is their stunning wedding breakfast and party room that Elmore themselves describe best: ‘This is our ballroom, our marquee, our place for festivities… Built sustainably from Estate materials using traditional methods yet designed in a contemporary fashion’. It’s bright, modern, soundproofed and the perfect place to host a raucous wedding party!

Relaxed Wedding Photography made easy

But what about in practise!? Well Pete & Jo also made it easy with their wonderfully laid back attitudes but the house and wonderful staff supported this perfectly. Both bride and groom were able to get ready on site which makes photographing both sides getting ready nice and easy. When guests began to arrive I could capture them too before nipping upstairs to take portraits of Jo in her dress, a little nervous but most definitely more so excited! The room for the ceremony is really quite special, old features are flooded with light and the perfect place for solemn vows. Confetti afterwards can take place handily just outside at the front of the house – weather permitting of course, but I believe if not it can be done inside.

A wonderful winter wedding

Jo & Pete’s day was gorgeous but freezing! The florist has got stuck in snow on the way over and icy winds forced portraits would have to be quick but it only added to the fun of the day. Jo & Pete huddled between locations and of course got lovely and close when we took shelter in the greenhouse. Sure the beautiful brides vail nearly blew off, and our fingers were close to numb by the time we got back for the wedding breakfast, but I’d taken beautiful photos and there were smiles all round. From this point everyone could stay in the warm, cosy atmosphere of the Gillyflower for food before the venue revealed one last surprise… A hidden dance floor complete with mirrorball! Jo & Pete hid behind the curtain before being revealed for the first dance and then the party was very much on. Michael G Moore took requests via post it note on his Piano and absolutely nailed them. (I’d highly recommend checking him out: https://www.michaelgmoore.co.uk/)

So that’s plenty of fawning over what I great day I had shooting at Elmore Court. I hope you enjoy the photos and if you’d like to book me for your wedding at Elmore, in the cotswolds or just about anywhere in the world I’d love to hear from you.

Elmore Courts website is here: https://www.elmorecourt.com/

And geographically based west of Gloucester their address is: Weir Ln, Elmore, Gloucester, GL2 3NT

Wedding flowers by: https://www.thewildebunch.co.uk/

Hair and make up by: https://www.hcbrides.co.uk/

If you’re looking for a wedding photographer I’d love to hear from you, you can click here or get in touch below.

Real weddings by Cotswolds wedding Photographer Joab Smith

Memories

Kimpton Fitzroy London Wedding

The venue

Getting ready

Ceremony and portraits

Reception and party

Style and approach

Why choose a Kimpton Fitzroy London for your wedding?

Looking for a wedding photographer at Kimpton Fitzroy London?

Get in touch!

Best Cotswolds Wedding Photos 2024

St Giles House Wedding Photographer

The Wedding

A real St Giles House wedding

Breathtaking Ceremony Spaces

Wedding Photography at Giles House

Luxurious Reception Spaces

Final Thoughts

Looking for a photographer for your own St Giles House Wedding?

My Best Wedding Photos 2023!

Sorrento & Positano Elopement on the Amalfi Coast

Sorrento and Positano wedding photography

A Sunny Start in Sorrento

The Ceremony at The Cloisters (Chiostro di San Francesco)

Taking the boat to Positano – and a little bit of seasickness..

Planned to perfection

Dreaming of your own Sorrento or Positano elopement?

Other Destination Weddings On My Blog:

Villa Catureglio, Tuscany wedding

Villa Eva Wedding, Ravello

Best Cotswolds Wedding Photographer

I won of ‘Best in the South West 2023!’

Villa Catureglio Wedding Photography

The Wedding

Booking a wedding photographer for villa Catureglio

The Location of Villa Catureglio

Elmore Court Wedding

Relaxed Wedding Photography made easy

A wonderful winter wedding

Cotswolds

UK

Destinations