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Meet James | The photographer behind Cherished Images
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Why I Photograph Weddings (The Honest Truth)
It might sound strange for a wedding photographer to say this, but growing up, I hated weddings.
To me, a wedding meant hours of standing around in a line, waiting to be called by a photographer who was usually stressed, moody, and shouting instructions. It felt like an endurance test, not a celebration.
Then came my own wedding.I was in my early twenties, excited and ready to celebrate. But history repeated itself. Our photographer was visibly stressed by the low-light conditions and clearly didn't have the right equipment to handle the atmosphere. He was panic-shooting, and it killed the mood.
When we got the final album, the product was truly awful. Looking at those photos, I had a moment of absolute clarity: I can do better than this.
That moment defined my entire career.I realised that being a "good" wedding photographer isn't just about the camera settings; it’s about the energy you bring into the room.
For the last 20 years, I have made it my mission to be the antidote to those stressed-out photographers of my past. I built my skills specifically to master difficult lighting so I never have to panic. I refined my documentary style so no guest ever has to stand in a line for an hour waiting for their name to be called.
I treat your wedding as a piece of personal history. By working quietly and without intervention, I capture the narrative of the day exactly as it unfolds. No directing, no shouting, and absolutely no stress.
I became the photographer I wish I’d had—so you can have the photos I missed out on.
What to Expect from Cherished Images – Your Questions Answered
Browse our most frequently asked questions below. After two decades of documenting weddings in Manchester and across the North West, I’ve heard almost every question imaginable. My goal is to be completely transparent so you can feel 100% confident in your choice.
Need something more specific? Reach out and I’ll get back to you right away with the benefit of my experience.
Who is the photographer?
It’s always me. When you book Cherished Images, you get my 20 years of experience on-site. I don't outsource to juniors; I personally capture every moment.
I am a recommended supplier for venues including Davyhulme Park and Flixton House.
Are you insured and do you carry backup equipment?
Absolutely. In 20 years of photographing weddings, I’ve learned that being prepared is just as important as being talented. I am fully insured with public liability and professional indemnity cover.
What is your photography style?
I specialise in authentic documentary wedding photography. After 20 years behind the lens, I’ve moved past the rigid 'poses' of traditional photography to focus on what actually lasts: honest storytelling.
Do you offer posed family photos as well?
Absolutely. While my heart is in the candid moments, I know how much those family portraits mean to you and your parents. I’ve refined a system for these that is fast, organised, and entirely stress-free.
How far in advance should we book?
To ensure I can provide every couple with my full focus and a fast gallery turnaround, I only take on a limited number of weddings each year. Because I limit my dates to ensure quality (especially for peak summer weddings at popular venues like The Monastery or Flixton House), Saturdays often fill up 12–18 months in advance.
Do you travel outside Manchester?
I certainly do. While I'm proud to be an Urmston (Trafford) based photographer, I regularly shoot across the Manchester City Centre, Cheshire, and the Lake District
How many images will we receive?
I believe in telling the complete story of your day without leaving anything out. For a typical full-day wedding, you can expect to receive between 400 and 600 professionally edited images.
When will we receive our photos?
I know that the 'post-wedding blues' are real, and the best cure is seeing your photos! Because I limit the number of weddings I take on, I can offer a much faster turnaround than many large agencies
Do you work alone or with a second photographer?
I work alone for the majority of weddings, as it supports my unobtrusive approach. A second photographer can be arranged if your event requires broader coverage.
What happens if you’re ill or unable to attend?
In the rare event of an emergency, I have a network of trusted professional photographers of the same standard who can step in. This contingency is part of my standard operating procedure.
Do we need to pay a deposit?
Yes. A £100 booking fee secures your date, with the remaining balance due two weeks before the wedding. This structure keeps the process straightforward and transparent.
Can we meet you before the wedding?
Yes. I offer pre-wedding consultations so we can walk through your plans, timelines and priorities. It’s a chance to make sure everything runs smoothly and that we’re fully aligned ahead of the big day.
How long do you stay on the day?
Coverage depends on the package you choose, but I stay for the agreed duration and won’t leave until everything we’ve discussed is captured. I always plan the timeline with you so coverage fits your day perfectly.
Do we get printing rights and can we share our photos online?
Yes. All delivered images come with full personal printing rights, and you’re welcome to share them across social media or with family and friends. Your online gallery includes unlimited downloads.
How do you edit the final images?
Every delivered photo is hand-edited for colour, tone and consistency. I keep the look natural and timeless so your images age well and reflect the real atmosphere of your day.
What couples say
"Cherished Images captured our son’s wedding perfectly at Flixton House. We have so many amazing photographs that make wonderful memories."
- Peter - Father of the Groom, Alex & Richard's Wedding
"James made us us very comfotable and nothing was too much for him. Our photos were everything we asked for and the whole process for our wedding photography at Flixton House was made so easy and stress free."
- Alex - Bride
Is Cherished Images Available for Your Wedding Day?
I only take on a limited number of weddings each year to ensure every couple receives my full focus, a calm experience, and a fast gallery turnaround. As a Manchester-based photographer with 20 years of experience, my peak season dates (May–September) often fill up 12–18 months in advance.
If you value a relaxed, documentary approach and want to ensure your date is in safe hands, please get in touch. Simply complete the form below with your venue details—whether you're at a city-centre warehouse or a local Trafford gem—and I'll personally get back to you within 24 hours to confirm my availability and share more about how we can capture your story.