Q&A - Mike Cook Photography: Falkirk Wedding Photographer

Q&A

Q. What is storytelling wedding photography?

A. In a nutshell, it's a style that leans more towards a natural, documentary approach to photographing the wedding day; my focus is very much on primarily capturing real moments rather than staged ones and letting the day flow rather than stopping every few minutes for posed pictures.

My belief is that the wedding shouldn't be about the photos - the photos should be about the wedding!

Q. But does that mean no couple shots or group pictures?

A. Not at all, I'll still make time for these, but keep it "short & sweet" and also in a more natural style that complements the rest of the pictures from the day. In fact, sometimes, on what can be a very hectic day, it's good to have some time aside on your own as a couple - nothing much, just ten or fifteen minutes and done!

A lot of the awards that I've won are indeed for couple pictures so you can rest assured that you're in good hands when it comes to the more creative aspects of the day.

Q. Aren't you really just taking "snapshots" then that any guest could take?

A. Not really. In fact, I think it's sometimes harder to take a documentary approach where you have to go looking for pictures rather than creating them yourself. I'm a photographer, so I still want your pictures to be artistic and creative, above and beyond what a guest could take. And, of course, I'm on the look out for shots all day long, not just parts of the day.

Q. What type of couple is your style more suited to?

A. I'd say there are a few; couples that maybe are a bit "camera shy" and don't like having their picture taken (not knowingly anyway). Then you have couples that just want to have a great party and don't want to break away too much for posed shots. And, generally, any couples that prefer a more "hands-off" photography approach to the day in a relaxed and natural style.

Q. How long after the wedding will we receive our pictures?

A. I'll always aim for a 4-6 week turnaround, sometimes even quicker. Earlier in the year, the turnaround is likely to be closer to 4 weeks, whereas once we get to the busy summer period, likely closer to 6. I will however get a few previews out to you though just a day or two after the wedding.

Q. How will we receive our pictures?

A. Your pictures will be uploaded to a password protected online gallery, from where you can view, share and download your pictures to use as you wish.

Q. Would you travel to shoot a wedding?

A. No problem at all. I've shot weddings all over Scotland and England too and am open to travelling anywhere to shoot, even overseas.

Q. How long have you been shooting weddings?

A. 14 years now and have been lucky to shoot over 500 fabulous unique wedding days. Experience counts for a lot on the wedding day as there are no second chances when it comes to capturing all the key moments.

I've shot weddings in all types of venues (from castles to hotels, bespoke wedding venues, beaches and even dark "gothic" buildings) and in all types of weather (as we can't always rely on the good old Scottish sunshine!), so I'm pretty well prepared for any eventuality.

Q. Are you insured?

A. Absolutely, all wedding suppliers should be. As well as my own equipment, I'm also fully insured for professional indemnity and public liability so it's peace of mind for you guys should anything go wrong.

Q. How do we take things further if we wanted to book?

A. First up, get in touch and let me know all the details - wedding date, venue etc. All my contact info can be found here . I'll then confirm my availability for you and, if available, we can then arrange a chat (either in person or video call).

Or, if you're already sure I'm the right photographer for you, just go ahead and book - a deposit will secure the date for you and we can still arrange to chat further before the big day arrives anyway.