Stephen J Griffin
Wedding Photography & Videography
Stephen J Griffin Photography offers prestige wedding photography and videography services to couples across South West England, Wales and more broadly across the UK. With over 10 years experience, Stephen specialises in using a photojournalistic style which allows him to capture natural and candid moments without interfering with the flow of the wedding day.
“I concentrate on creating authentic pictures and short films that tell the story of your happy day. I don’t spend hours doing formal group shots while the story of the wedding is happening elsewhere - I immerse myself in the action and capture the day as it was with all the laughter, love and everything in-between. Every wedding has a unique story and I want all of my images and films to encapsulate the magic that sets them aside from the ordinary. To do this I have to feel a connection with my couples right from the first enquiry. I won’t accept a booking unless I feel that rapport”
“Amazing, beyond expectation”
“Steve and Jo are exceptional individuals, not only are they extremely talented photographers but they are good people to have around. From the pre-wedding prep, to the wedding day itself and the follow up Steve has been super responsive and clear and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him and his services. The shots we have to keep will stay with us forever and I’m so very grateful at the moments he captured.”
— Harriet
Hello, I’m Stephen (or Steve or Griff)
I’m an ‘outdoors person’, and when I’m not shooting weddings you’re most likely to find me up a hill or mountain with my trusty companion Milo, my boxer dog. Looking back, I’ve been lucky enough to travel all over the world and have met some wonderful people, but the UK remains my favourite place and I have so many places I still want to visit.
Spending time in the wilderness helps to lower my stress levels and redress my work/life balance. I love the creative challenges and excitement of wedding photography, but recognise the need to recharge my batteries so that I can ensure every couple sees the best version of me.
Guitar player
Drone pilot
Grandpa
Dog lover
Gloucester Rugby fan
Not just your photographer/videographer
Are we a great fit?
You see the value in good photos
You enjoy adventure
You dislike conventional
You’re fun loving
You’re open to creative ideas
You want me to tell the story of your day
The Vows
Flower Girl
Splashing-on the cologne
FAQs
Where are you based and are you prepared to travel?
I am based in the Cotswolds but I serve couples all over the South West of England and Wales. I am very happy to travel more widely within the UK and overseas. The cost of my travel within a radius of 50 miles of Gloucester is included in the various package prices - outside of this will be charged on a case-by-case basis. If I need overnight accommodation, I will look for the most economical option (eg Travelodge, Motel, BnB, etc)
What is the booking process and do you ask for a deposit?
After your initial contact, I will arrange to meet you face-to-face or via Zoom if this is more convenient. Once we have discussed the details, I will produce a wedding contract and invite you to pay a 20% deposit. The remaining 80% balance will be due approx 4 weeks before your wedding day.
How often will you stay in communication with us leading up to our wedding day?
It depends on how far in advance of your wedding day you book my services, but typically I aim to make contact with you every 4 - 6 weeks to check that nothing has changed and answer any questions you have. I will always call you in the final week before the wedding. Where possible, I will try to join the wedding rehearsal; particularly if the ceremony is in a Church or religious venue.
What wedding photography styles do you shoot?
I am a documentary style photographer (sometimes described as photojournalistic). This means that I prefer to capture those authentic, candid moments that tell the true story of your wedding rather than getting bogged-down with too many formal shots. Of course, I am always willing to spend as much time with the Bride and Groom as necessary and will shoot a reasonable number of group shots.
Do you shoot video as well as photos?
Yes, I can shoot video to provide a short film containing all of your special moments. In order to achieve this I employ the help of an assistant photographer who can cover all of those shots that I might otherwise miss whilst I’m concentrating on your videography. The film is edited with music and key sounds and voice audio from your special day, and output in HD which is suitable for play back on laptops, desktops and HD TV.
Do you ask for a wedding photography group shots list?
Yes, I will discuss this with you during one of our first consultations and will invite you to give me a list of around 10 - 15 group shots that you want me to capture. I will also ask you to nominate someone to act as the ‘runner’ on your wedding day so I don’t have to waste my time chasing your family and friends when I should be taking photographs.
What happens if you are ill or unable to attend the wedding?
In the unlikely event this were to happen, I would arrange for another top quality photographer to ‘step-in’ and shoot your wedding at the same price and using exactly the same instructions. I belong to a syndicate of local photographers who agree to help each other under these circumstances.
What happens if it rains on our wedding day?
Whilst rain is a real nuisance, it shouldn’t dampen the spirit of your special day. As part of my venue recce I will look for sheltered spots to take individual and group shots and of course there is always the option to use white umbrellas (this actually looks quite cool!). The main area of impact would be if you had selected drone photography as part of your package - I am not allowed to fly any of my drones in rain, snow or mist.
Do we need to feed you?
Yes please! I don’t need a full wedding meal like your guests but I will need to eat something as I’ll be on my feet for many hours. Most wedding venues will offer ‘vendor meals’ - you could ask about this when you book your catering.. I will typically try to eat while you and your guests are having your meal and will make myself available for the speeches and toasts.