Meet James | The photographer behind Cherished Images

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.

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, organized, 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 am a specialist Manchester and North West photographer, peak-season Saturdays (May–September) are usually secured 12 to 18 months in advance.

Do you travel outside Manchester?

I certainly do. While I’m proud to be an Urmston-based photographer, my work takes me all across the North West and beyond. Over the last 20 years, I’ve become intimately familiar with the best venues and hidden gems in Cheshire, Lancashire, Merseyside, 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.