Shottle Hall Wedding Photographer
Make it stand out.
Documentary meets Editorial wedding photography at Shottle Hall
Nestled in the heart of the Derbyshire countryside, between the historic market towns of Belper and Ashbourne, Shottle Hall is one of those venues that sets the tone for a timeless, romantic wedding day. As a wedding photographer who blends analogue film and digital photography, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing weddings at this lovely estate and I’m reminded why it’s such a favourite for couples across East Midlands and beyond.
Whether you’re planning a classic English countryside celebration, or something else, this Victorian country house offers a dream backdrop.
From my perspective as a photographer, the variety here is everything. You’ve got the soft light filtering through the bay windows, wide open skies for golden hour portraits in the fields and the Orangery for reception photos full of natural light.
A Derbyshire Wedding Venue which Oozes Character
The Hall is part of the Shottle Hall Estate, surrounded by 14 acres of landscaped gardens and open countryside. It reflects Derbyshire’s stately home tradition, which runs deep.
With views across the Ecclesbourne Valley and easy access from Derby, Ashbourne, and the Peak District, it’s a venue that connects heritage with heart.
The Best Photo Spots
These are some places I always gravitate towards as a wedding photographer at Shottle Hall:
The Ceremony Room: Bathed in natural light from the large bay windows, this part of the venue is used for ceremonies and drinks receptions later in the afternoon
The Front Lawn: Ideal for confetti, group shots, or just breathing in the countryside after your ceremony.
The Fields: Golden hour here is magic. I often take couples for a short walk to capture natural, relaxed portraits just before the sun dips
How I Photograph Weddings at Shottle Hall
My approach and photography style is relaxed, documentary-led with an editorial edge. I love to capture natural, unscripted and not forced moments as they unfold. I use a blend of digital and analogue film photography- switching between the two throughout the day to give you a collection that feels rich and layered.
When it comes to your portraits, I’ll step in gently. I’ll offer simple, natural direction but never over-posing you. I might tell you to walk towards a nice patch of light. It’s more about creating space for you to be yourselves, rather than staging anything that feels awkward.
Since I’ve photographed weddings at Shottle Hall before, I know exactly how to work with the light and space, whether you’re planning your day for spring or winter.
My background in film photography, fashion and videography all influence the way I work: observing rather than interrupting, capturing you as you are.