Award Winning Wedding Photojournalism in Hertfordshire
I’m thrilled to share that my award-winning wedding photojournalism in Hertfordshire has just been recognised with a prestigious Gold Award from the Wedding Photojournalist Association (WPJA). This image, captured during a beautiful Hertfordshire village church wedding, perfectly embodies the spontaneous, storytelling approach I take to photographing weddings.
The WPJA is an international organisation that celebrates true documentary wedding photography, with awards judged exclusively by working photojournalists and editors. This makes the recognition particularly special, as it reflects the values of authentic storytelling and unposed, natural moments—qualities that I have honed over my years as a photojournalist at The Times.
The Story Behind the Image
This award-winning shot captures a fleeting but powerful moment: the newlyweds dashing past a vintage pink Fiat 500, set against the rustic charm of a historic barn. The bride’s billowing dress, the groom’s purposeful stride, and the warm sunlight illuminating the scene all add to the sense of energy and excitement.
What makes this image so compelling is its sense of movement and spontaneity. Nothing here is staged; instead, it tells a genuine story of the couple’s joyful escape after their ceremony. This kind of authenticity is exactly why I love documentary wedding photography—it’s about preserving real moments as they happen, without interference.
Why the WPJA Award Matters
Winning a WPJA Gold Award is a true honour because of how rigorously these awards are judged. Unlike many other photography competitions, WPJA awards are decided by seasoned photojournalists and picture editors—people who have spent their careers capturing real-world events with impact and honesty. Their expertise ensures that the winning images are not only technically strong but also emotionally powerful and deeply narrative-driven.
This aligns completely with my philosophy as a wedding photographer. My goal is always to document weddings in a way that feels authentic and timeless, allowing couples to relive their day through images that reflect the raw emotions, atmosphere, and unique character of their celebration. Rather than directing moments, I focus on anticipating and capturing them as they naturally unfold.
Documentary Wedding Photography in Hertfordshire and Beyond
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who prioritises storytelling over staging, I’d love to hear more about your plans. Whether it’s a countryside church wedding or a grand city celebration, my approach remains the same: real moments, beautifully captured.
View more from this award-winning wedding here: Hertfordshire Village Church Wedding.
