Interview: Neil Walker Photography
Each week we catch up with a wedding photographer and find out about the person behind the lens, today we chat with Neil Walker.
How long have you been photographing weddings for and how did you get into it?
I shot my first wedding 9 years ago and haven’t looked back. My background is in advertising and corporate photography and when a relative asked me to photograph her wedding I initially said no, then decided to try it. I loved it – it was a complete change and I knew instantly it was the route I wanted to go.
What do you particularly like about photographing weddings?
The people, and the fact you get to be involved so closely with their special day. Every wedding is different because it’s personal to those involved, so I approach each with no preconceptions, and my work is constantly evolving as a result.
What is your favourite part of the day?
Bridal preps are always great because of the air of excitement & anticipation. I also really love the dancing – a great chance for chaotic, creative pictures.
How would you describe your style and approach?
Natural and unobtrusive. My basic philosophy is that people look their best when they don’t know they are being photographed, so where possible I like to work in the background.
Who, or what inspires you?
Other photographers. The level of professionalism and creativity in the industry at the moment is extraordinary. Looking at other people’s work is a real inspiration.
What advice would you give to couples looking for a wedding photographer?
Choose a photographer you like – the person and the work! Go with your gut instinct – if you think their photographer is great and you love their style then they are the person for you. Look through full weddings – you need to make sure they get great shots throughout the day not just the odd one that goes onto their website. Don’t scrimp on your wedding photography – you’re going to have your wedding photos forever and they need to be great!
What tips would you share with couples to help their day go more smoothly?
Plan! The more you plan the smoother things will run on your Big Day. I don’t mean plan the day minute by minute, I’m talking about considering all eventualities beforehand. Deciding where you’ll do any group shots if it rains is a must! Be realistic about timings.
If there was one place in the world you would love to capture a wedding where would it be and why?
Italy – I absolutely love working there.
Finally… What’s the best moment you’ve had as a wedding photographer?
The moment when I realised at my relative’s wedding that this was what I wanted to do. A fantastic sense that this was the direction for me!
There’s been loads of great moments since then, and pretty much every wedding brings something special where I’m really proud of a particular shot.
Many thanks for Neil for taking time to chat with us, you can view more of his work on his website at www.neilwalkerphotography.co.uk