Trafford Wedding Photographer | No-Fuss & Unposed Style

I’m James, the photographer behind Cherished Images. Based right here in Urmston, I’ve spent twenty years documenting Trafford weddings for couples who value honest moments over staged poses.
My approach is built on two decades of experience across the borough—from the quiet, leafy gardens of Bowdon and Altrincham to the high-energy, industrial spaces of Old Trafford. I’ve refined a quiet, unobtrusive way of working that lets you stay fully present with your guests. My focus is always on the unscripted energy of the day, working discreetly in the background to preserve the real story of your Trafford celebration.

Authentic Stories in Altrincham, Sale, Stretford and Urmston

Trafford offers a unique backdrop that city-center Manchester can't match. From the industrial, grit-meets-glamour aesthetic of Victoria Warehouse in Old Trafford to the timeless, leafy elegance of Dunham Massey and Altrincham, it’s a borough of incredible contrasts. Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony at Altrincham Town Hall or a grand celebration at Flixton House, my documentary approach ensures the focus remains on the real moments, not forced poses.

Most Saturdays during the peak summer season are reserved up to 18 months in advance; get in touch today to check availability for your 2026 or 2027 wedding date.

Award-Winning Documentary Photography

My approach is built on honest storytelling. Having spent twenty years refining a documentary style that has been recognised for excellence by Hitched and The Wedding Industry Awards, I bring that same standard to every celebration in Altrincham, Sale, and Urmston.
I don’t believe in manufactured moments. Instead, I focus on the authentic energy of your day, capturing your wedding as it naturally breathes. From the grand, industrial scale of Victoria Warehouse in Old Trafford to the timeless manor houses in Hale, my goal is to provide a gallery that feels like a true reflection of you—not a curated industry cliché.

If you are looking for an honest, unposed record of your celebration from a photographer with 20 years of local experience, you can start the process here to Book Cherished Images.

Transparent Pricing & Collections

Every celebration within the Trafford borough has its own rhythm—from modern ceremonies at Altrincham Town Hall to full-day events in Hale or Bowdon.
I believe your investment should be as straightforward as my documentary style. Whether you’re planning a grand celebration at Victoria Warehouse or an intimate 'micro-wedding' here in Urmston, my pricing is fully transparent.
You’ll receive a high-resolution gallery that captures the honest narrative of your day, without hidden extras or stress.

I believe your investment should be as straightforward and relaxed as my documentary style, which is why you can View packages and pricing with full transparency and no hidden extras.

A Natural, Unscripted Perspective

When couples look for a photographer in the borough, they are usually seeking an honest record of their day—not a series of staged poses or artificial smiles.
My documentary philosophy is centered on authentic storytelling; I aim to preserve the genuine energy, the deep emotions, and the quiet, fleeting moments as they happen.
Whether it’s the roar of laughter during the speeches or the nervous anticipation before the walk down the aisle, I maintain a calm, unobtrusive presence in the background, documenting your wedding exactly as it felt.

To see how I capture the natural rhythm and unscripted energy of a wedding day across the North West, feel free to Explore my wedding portfolio.

A Personalised Approach to Local Weddings

Beyond the awards, the true measure of my work is the experience of the families I photograph.
Being based locally in Urmston, I understand that every Trafford wedding has a unique energy—from the historic character of Stretford Public Hall to the relaxed, open spaces of Davyhulme Park.
My goal is to be a grounding, friendly presence throughout your day, ensuring you feel entirely at ease while I document your story. It’s about more than just a gallery; it’s about providing a professional service that has been trusted by couples across the borough for two decades.

From the industrial-chic spaces of Ancoats to the historic grandeur of the Town Hall, you can find expert logistical advice when you Explore my Greater Manchester wedding venue hub.

Kind Words from Local Couples

Documenting a Walima requires a deep understanding of the day’s natural rhythm. At The Venue in Urmston, I focus on the authentic, unposed moments that define these celebrations—from the vibrant energy of the reception to the quiet, genuine connections between families.
Having captured hundreds of local stories over the last twenty years, I provide an honest, documentary-led perspective that respects the traditions of the day while avoiding the 'industry clichés' of staged photography.
"I can’t recommend James enough for anyone looking for high-quality photography in the area. He was incredibly professional and looked after us throughout the whole process; the photos truly captured the spirit of our day." — Sally, Urmston
"James documented our wedding perfectly. I felt completely at ease with his approach—there were no forced poses, and he was brilliant with the children. We are so grateful for these wonderful memories." — Jacqueline, Altrincham

Experience and trust are at the heart of my 20-year career; click here to See what other couples say about my quiet, unobtrusive approach to their wedding day.

Preserving Your Family History with Integrity

Selecting a photographer is a decision about legacy; it’s the peace of mind that comes from knowing your history is being preserved by an expert. With a career spanning two decades, my documentary work has been featured on Rock My Wedding and Hitched, but the true reward is the trust placed in me by local families.

Whether your celebration is held at a landmark like Victoria Warehouse or an intimate garden setting in Bowdon, you are commissioning a professional who understands the specific logistics and light of our area. I focus on the profound weight of your story, ensuring your gallery remains an honest, timeless reflection of the day you actually lived.

I pride myself on providing a consistent, award-winning service to every local family I work with—you can Read my 5-star reviews on Google to see their feedback."

What defines my documentary style for Trafford weddings

Here is a curated selection of moments captured across the Trafford borough over the last two decades. My signature style is warm, honest, and entirely unscripted. Rather than following a generic 'Manchester' template, my approach is tailored to the specific energy of our local area—focusing on the genuine connections and raw emotions that occur when you feel truly at home.
Whether you are at an industrial venue in Stretford or a leafy estate in Altrincham, I ensure the natural flow of your day remains undisturbed. The result is a collection of images that will hold their meaning and emotional depth for the next 20 years and beyond. Explore more of my work in my dedicated Trafford wedding photography portfolio.

View more weddings photographed across Trafford

atural documentary wedding photography at Davyhulme Park Golf Club in Urmston, featuring the bride, groom, and bridesmaids outdoors in the Trafford borough

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) - Flixton House

Expert Advice for Your Celebration

With nearly twenty years of experience and hundreds of local celebrations captured, couples choose Cherished Images for more than just a portfolio. They value the peace of mind that comes from working with a photographer who understands the specific flow of a Trafford wedding. My goal is to ensure you feel entirely relaxed and confident, knowing that your day is being documented by someone who knows the area intimately.
Whether you need advice on the best time for portraits in the gardens of Flixton House or tips on navigating the industrial light at Victoria Warehouse, my experience is your resource. Being based in Urmston, I’m always just around the corner, ready to help you plan a day that feels natural, stays on schedule, and results in a gallery of honest, timeless memories

What photography style works best for a wedding in the Trafford borough?

A documentary style is ideal for Trafford’s diverse venues—from the grand Altrincham Town Hall to the industrial-chic vibes of Old Trafford. As an Urmston-based photographer, I focus on the natural rhythm of your day, using local light and unscripted moments to ensure your photos feel as authentic as the borough itself.

For more information, read our blog post on photography style

Do you provide wedding photography coverage outside of the Trafford area?

Yes. While I'm based in Urmston, I regularly document weddings across the North West. Beyond Trafford hubs like Altrincham and Sale, I frequently travel throughout Cheshire, Lancashire, the Lake District, Salford, and Stockport. Whether you're staying local or heading further afield, I bring the same calm, unposed approach to every celebration.

Explore my Wedding Photography Essential FAQ Guide

How far in advance should we book a Trafford wedding photographer?

Most couples book 18 to 24 months in advance, especially for Saturdays in the summer. Popular Trafford venues like Victoria Warehouse and Altrincham Town Hall fill up fast. Since I’m based in Urmston, my local dates tend to go quickly—I recommend reaching out as soon as your venue is confirmed to ensure I'm available for your date.

Read my blog post on What to Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before Booking

How many images are included in a Trafford wedding gallery?

You will typically receive 400 to 600 professionally edited images for a full-day wedding. Whether it’s an outdoor celebration at Dunham Massey or an intimate Urmston venue, I include every meaningful, unscripted moment. You’ll receive a "highlights" selection shortly after the big day, followed by your full high-resolution digital gallery to download and share.

Take a look at my blog post here where I explain this further

How do you approach wedding photography in the Trafford rain?

It wouldn't be Manchester without a shower! As an Urmston local, I’m well-versed in our weather and always have a "Plan B." I know the best sheltered spots at venues like Flixton House and Altrincham Town Hall, and I always carry professional lighting and umbrellas. My goal is to use the rain to add a cinematic, atmospheric layer to your story so the weather never dampens the energy of your day.

Read this blog post for details on wet weather photography

Local support & guidance for your Trafford celebration

Many of my clients feel ready to book after exploring my local advice and FAQs. My goal is for you to feel completely reassured, knowing exactly what to expect and feeling confident that you’ll be looked after by a professional who is right on your doorstep. Being based in Urmston, I’m not just your photographer; I’m a local resource who understands the nuances of the Trafford borough. From our first conversation to the moment you open your final gallery, you can relax knowing your memories are in the hands of someone truly invested in our community.

From the industrial-chic spaces of Ancoats to the historic grandeur of the Town Hall, you can find expert logistical advice when you Explore my Greater Manchester wedding venue hub.

My Favourite Trafford Wedding Venues

Trafford has a massive variety of backdrops, and I love shooting at all of them. Here are a few local spots that suit my documentary style perfectly:
● Flixton House: A hidden gem in Urmston. It has that classic manor house feel but remains totally relaxed and unpretentious. The gardens are great for quick, natural portraits.● Victoria Warehouse: The ultimate industrial backdrop. It’s technically in Trafford but sits right on the border of Salford Quays—perfect if you want that gritty, cinematic look.● Altrincham Town Hall: An iconic building for civil ceremonies. It’s right in the town centre, which makes it ideal for a laid-back wedding followed by a reception at the nearby market or bars.

Contact your local Trafford wedding photographer

To get your journey started, simply complete the form below. Being based right here in Urmston, I’m perfectly positioned to help with your Trafford celebration, and I’ll be in touch as soon as possible.

I personally review and respond to every local enquiry. Please keep in mind that during peak wedding season or over busy weekends, my reply might take slightly longer. If you haven’t heard from me within 48 hours, please check your junk folder or WhatsApp, as my messages sometimes find their way there.

By submitting this form, you agree to your details being used to respond to your enquiry. For full information on how I look after your data, please see my privacy policy.

Award-Winning Trafford Based Documentary Wedding Photographer

Documenting weddings across Trafford, from the leafy gardens of Bowdon and Altrincham to the high-energy, industrial spaces of Old Trafford.

Authentic Stories in Altrincham, Sale, Stretford and Urmston

Award-Winning Documentary Photography

Transparent Pricing & Collections

A Natural, Unscripted Perspective

A Personalised Approach to Local Weddings

Kind Words from Local Couples

Preserving Your Family History with Integrity

What defines my documentary style for Trafford weddings

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.

Expert Advice for Your Celebration

What photography style works best for a wedding in the Trafford borough?

Do you provide wedding photography coverage outside of the Trafford area?

How far in advance should we book a Trafford wedding photographer?

How many images are included in a Trafford wedding gallery?

How do you approach wedding photography in the Trafford rain?

Local support & guidance for your Trafford celebration

My Favourite Trafford Wedding Venues

Contact your local Trafford wedding photographer