A Wedding to Remember: Sarah-Jane & Ross
My mum always says, "What’s for you won’t pass you by," and that proved true again with Sarah-Jane and Ross’s wedding in Banchory earlier this month. Sarah-Jane stumbled upon my Facebook post, and the rest, as they say, is history. Trusting your wedding photos to someone who’s never done this professionally before? That’s a big leap of faith! But thankfully, my years as an amateur photographer and my investment in professional gear helped bridge that gap. This was my first time shooting with my Nikon Z8 cameras paired with a stunning set of professional lenses, and wow—they didn’t disappoint. The 50mm and 85mm f/1.2 lenses were absolute game-changers, delivering breath-taking sharpness and dreamy backgrounds. These beauties helped me capture some of the most remarkable images I’ve ever taken. Don’t just take my word for it—check out some of my favourites below!
What I quickly learned that day is that when a couple welcomes you into their wedding like you’re one of their own, you can capture great images and document the day without interfering or getting in the way. The day started with meeting Ross, he was scribbling away at his vows while I was flying my drone around the hotel to capture some dramatic establishing shots. Ross radiated calm—just chilling in the bright Banchory sun, ready to say "I do."
Meanwhile, Sarah-Jane was busy in her hotel room, getting her hair done, surrounded by warm orange lighting and a literal beam of sunlight slicing through the middle of the room. Add in ample quantities of hairspray suspended in the air creating a haze that lit up in every photo, it was a challenge to get the right photo. Just nobody strike a match!
"You have been absolutely amazing to work with whilst capturing our most special day. It wouldn't have been the same without you. All our heartfelt thanks."
—Mr and Mrs Croy
Out in the ceremony room, the sunlight was no less dramatic. It streamed through a giant bay window, bouncing off the River Dee outside, creating a glare that could rival a West End musical stage spotlight. Cue a dozen test shots, frantic adjustments, and a moment of gratitude for packing off-camera flashes. Weddings are unpredictable, but being prepared means you can handle even the trickiest lighting.
Over at the groom’s hotel room, the same sun had me closing curtains and working with flash to get balanced shots. The guys, though, were laid-back and enjoying the morning and apart from a belt that didn't want to go through the back of Ross' beautiful Sporran all was calm. I captured a few of them getting ready before heading off to Sarah-Jane's room. However, things were running a little behind schedule, which meant we had to skip bridal portraits. But watching her dad, David, see her for the first time was magical. (Not gonna lie—my eyes might have started watering, I blame the hairspray.)
The ceremony itself was led by the amazing Drew McLelland, a humanist celebrant who somehow blends calm reassurance, humour, and emotion into the perfect balance. He had everyone either laughing out loud or tearing up—sometimes both at once! Sarah-Jane and Ross’s heartfelt vows had the guests reaching for tissues, and the handfasting ceremony, where they tied a saltire, was such a touching and symbolic moment.
Once the formalities were over, it was time for plenty of family and group photos outside in the sun and we had 5 minutes to capture some couples portraits along the river bank. The younger members of the wedding part took advantage of the break to see who could skim stones the furthest into the river, making for some great action shots captured by my second photographer.
It was time for the speeches—and wow, the emotions didn’t let up. From heartfelt words to belly laughs, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. I stayed focused on capturing as many of the moments as possible while letting everything flow naturally.
After a beautiful meal and as the night wound down, we took the couple and some of the wedding party outside for a sparkler tunnel photo. It’s one of those shots that looks stunning but can be tricky to pull off in the 30 seconds the sparklers give you. With the hotel’s car park lights trying to interfere, my assistant worked wonders lighting the couple just perfectly as I framed the shots. The end result? Beautiful sparkler photos that will be cherished for years to come and nobody set fire to the bride or groom, which is always a bonus.
Before I left, Sarah-Jane and Ross handed me a beautiful card thanking me for being their photographer. It was such a thoughtful gesture and the perfect way to end what was an unforgettable day. Sarah-Jane and Ross, thank you for letting me capture your incredible wedding. It’s a day I’ll treasure—and one that’s taught me so much as I continue this journey. Thank you also to Banchory Lodge Hotel for being so accommodating and helping me whenever I asked throughout the day. It's a stunning location and stunning hotel. Here’s to many more amazing weddings to come!
Please contact me if you would like to discuss your wedding photography.
