An album that had everyone smiling here at Folio Albums is by John Hope of John Hope Photography. Based in Leeds, John is a creative, documentary photographer with an organic style and approach. This album is filled with beautiful people and beautiful surroundings. The wedding of Nicola and Alex was shot at Talton Lodge with a festival style. Bridesmaids in boho dresses and boots, a tipi, bouncy castle, games and smiles resulted in a stunning album that is sure to bring a smile to your face.
We caught up with John to find out more about this beautiful album and his top tips from the day.
How long have you been interested in photography?
I’ve always enjoyed photography but only really started taking it seriously when I got my first SLR in 2009. That lead to me getting obsessively into it very quickly and little more than a year later I’d shot my first wedding!
What did you enjoy most about shooting this wedding?
The atmosphere and the people. It was just overflowing with laughter, fun and good vibes from start to finish.
If you could sum up this album in three words, what would they be?
New.sample.album. Is that a bit crap? Ha ha…. Amazing.memories, immortalized?
How was this album presented?
12×12, Art White paper, Contemporary Leather Blush, black cover printing in Bombshell font.
Did you shoot with the album design in mind?
No. I don’t like to be shackled by thoughts like that when shooting a wedding. With the number of photos delivered to the client and the number that make the album there’s always enough flexibility to put together a pleasing layout.
In this album many of photographs were taken outdoors. What additional challenges did this bring to shooting?
Harsh midday sunshine brings it challenges but they can be dealt with! I love a sunny wedding!
The Bride and Groom have big smiles on their faces all day, and the album really captures a beautiful story. Do you have any techniques on putting people at ease when photographing them?
I’m just friendly and talk to them and have a bit of a joke. You’re around them for so much of the day it’d be a bit weird if you just took photos and didn’t interact. It’s really important to me to find the ‘right couples’ – i.e. the sort of people I could imagine going for a couple of beers with – as it makes it easy to get a connection which facilitates getting those relaxed photos.
We know you produced this album as a sample too, how did you decide which images to feature?
Following my gut combined with the aesthitics of producing good looking spreads!
What inspires/influences your photography?
My couples, my fellow photographer friends and looking at great street photography.
What is in your camera bag?
2 x Canon 5dMkIIIs, a full complement of prime lenses, speedlites, flash modifiers, one or two toys for getting creative shots.
What is your favourite accessory, other than your camera?
My new Barbershop messenger bag is pretty tidy!
What do you find most challenging about shooting weddings?
Difficult officiants restricting where I can shoot during a ceremony (most are great though)!
Click play, turn on HD and go full screen to enjoy this awesome album
Many thanks to John for allowing me to interview him and for sharing his great images. You can see more of his amazing work at www.johnhopephotography.com