Last update: November 2025

About Cherished Images

If you’re here, you’re probably looking for a photographer you can genuinely trust — someone who’ll capture your wedding naturally, without turning it into a photoshoot.

I’m James, the photographer behind Cherished Images. For nearly two decades, I’ve photographed weddings with a calm, documentary approach — focusing on real moments, real people, and the atmosphere of the day as it actually felt.

Picture of James, the Photographer

I’m James — and I photograph weddings quietly, naturally, and with purpose

I’m not the photographer who shouts instructions or stages your day. I’m the one who notices what matters while it’s happening: the nerves before the ceremony, the proud look from a parent, the laughter between friends, the tiny moments you didn’t even realise were unfolding.

My job is simple: to tell your story honestly, with photographs that still feel true years from now.

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What you can expect from me

● A calm presence, especially when the day feels busy● A documentary approach that keeps things natural● Direction only when it helps — and never at the expense of real moments

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Because you want to enjoy your day - not perform for the camera

Most couples tell me the same thing: they want beautiful photos, but they don’t want the photography to take over the wedding.

That’s the heart of how I work. I’ll guide you when it’s useful, step back when it’s not, and make sure you feel comfortable from the first conversation to the final gallery.

Over the years, that approach has led to consistent 5-star feedback, venue recommendations, and industry recognition — but the biggest thing is this: couples feel looked after.

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A relaxed, documentary approach - with support when you need it

Here’s what it looks like on the day:
● I blend in so moments can happen naturally● I anticipate what’s coming next, so nothing is missed● I keep things calm, especially during busy parts of the day● I capture the atmosphere, not just the “big moments”
If you’re not comfortable posing, you don’t have to be. If you want a few lovely portraits without losing half your day, we’ll do it quickly and naturally. If your timeline runs late, I’ll adapt without stress.

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Photographs that feel like you

Trends change. Wedding days move fast. The images that last are the ones that feel real.
I focus on:
● genuine expressions● natural light and true-to-life colour● storytelling that reflects your people and your relationships
The goal isn’t perfection — it’s meaning.

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Experience you can rely on

With nearly two decades photographing weddings, I’ve worked across all kinds of days — sunny outdoor ceremonies, low-light venues, winter weddings, tight timelines, big families, quiet couples, chaotic dancefloors… all of it.
That experience means you don’t need to worry about the photography. You can just be present, and trust that it’s being captured properly.
● Nearly two decades of wedding photography experience● Award recognition including TWIA● Featured on leading wedding platforms● Consistently rated 5 stars by couples

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Based in Manchester, photographing weddings across the North West

Cherished Images is based in Manchester and photographs weddings across the North West. If you’re planning a wedding in the city, you can explore my dedicated Manchester Wedding Photographer page for local venue experience, real weddings, and what to expect.

If you’re looking for calm, natural wedding photography

If you want photography that feels relaxed, honest, and story-driven — and you’d like someone experienced who’ll keep things calm on the day — I’d love to hear about your plans.

Unposed wedding moment showing the photographer’s unobtrusive approach, focusing on real emotions and genuine interactions.
Natural, relaxed portrait of a couple on their wedding day, photographed in a candid style across Greater Manchester.

What couples say

    5-Star Google Review

"Cherished Images captured our son’s wedding perfectly at Flixton House. We have so many amazing photographs that make wonderful memories."

  • Profile photo of Peter, Farther of the Bride, Flixton House

    - Peter - Father of the Groom, Alex & Richard's Wedding

    5-Star Google Review

"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."

  • Profile photo of the bride for her testimonial at Flixton House

    - Alex - Bride

Is Cherished Images Available for Your Wedding Day?

If you’re considering Cherished Images, I’d love to hear about your plans. Simply complete the form below to save your date, and I’ll personally get back to you to confirm availability.

With nearly two decades of experience photographing weddings, you can expect a friendly, professional response and clear guidance from the very first message — making the process straightforward and stress-free.

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What to Expect from Cherished Images – Your Questions Answered

Browse our most frequently asked questions below. Need something more specific? Reach out and we’ll get back to you right away.

Will you be the one photographing our wedding?

Yes. When you book Cherished Images, you’re booking me directly. I personally photograph every wedding, ensuring consistency, accountability and a seamless experience from enquiry to final delivery.

Are you insured and do you carry backup equipment?

Absolutely. I’m fully insured, and I always bring professional backup cameras, lenses and storage. Your coverage is protected from both a technical and operational standpoint.

What is your photography style?

My approach is documentary-led — natural, candid and unobtrusive. I focus on real interactions and genuine moments rather than orchestrated poses, giving you a visual narrative that reflects your day authentically.

Do you offer posed family photos as well?

Yes. While my style is predominantly candid, I manage family and group photos efficiently and professionally, ensuring they’re completed quickly so you can get back to enjoying the day.

How far in advance should we book?

Peak-season dates are often secured 12–18 months ahead. If your date is confirmed, it’s best to enquire early to ensure availability.

Do you travel outside Manchester?

Yes. I regularly cover weddings across the North West, Cheshire, Merseyside and the wider UK. Travel within Greater Manchester is included as standard.

How many images will we receive?

Every wedding is different, but a full day typically yields 350–500 professionally edited images. All files are delivered via a secure online gallery with unlimited downloads.

When will we receive our photos?

Most galleries are delivered within 4–6 weeks. During peak periods, this may extend slightly, but I always keep you updated so expectations are managed throughout.

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.