When you're planning a wedding, choosing a photographer can feel like an enormous decision.

There are hundreds of photographers to choose from. Different styles, different approaches, different collections and, of course, very different levels of experience.

Beautiful photographs are obviously important.

But there is something else I believe couples should consider when choosing the person who will photograph one of the most important days of their lives:

Experience.

I've been photographing weddings for 35 years.

During that time, I've photographed hundreds of weddings in churches, castles, country houses, registry offices, hotels, barns and some of the most beautiful wedding venues across County Durham, the North East and beyond.

And if those years have taught me anything, it's this:

No two weddings ever go exactly according to plan.

Well, what can I say about Jennie and Jamie's day to start with? If you've been following along for a while you'll know I always check the forecast about 47 times in the week leading up to a wedding. This week, every single check said the same thing - rain. Heavy at times. Bring a brolly, bring waterproofs, bring a towel for your cameras.

I arrived for bridal preparations at Jennie and Jamie's house at 11.30am and it was... glorious. Bright, warm, beautiful late summer sunshine pouring through the car windows. Not what we were promised at all, but absolutely no one was complaining.

And what a lovely calm house to walk into. You know those mornings where you open the front door and you can already hear the music and the hairdryer and the excited chatter from halfway down the path? This wasn't that. Not yet. It was calm. Tea on. A quiet sort of anticipation. I knew, as we all did, that it wouldn't stay like that for long.

Saturday 22nd August and I was heading up the A68 for a first for me - a wedding day at Northside Farm in Northumberland. Not just a wedding day, but Katie and Katherines wedding day.

It's always exciting photographing a new venue, and Northside has been on my list for a while now. I see a lot of venues - after 30 years you've seen most of them in the North East - but this one kept cropping up with couples asking if I'd shot there. So when Katie and Katherine booked me, I was chuffed.

I left plenty of time. I always do when it's a new venue. I took the A68 all the way up - probably my favourite road in the North East when the sun's out. Rolling hills, open moorland, that big Northumberland sky opening up the further north you get. It was a beautiful morning to be driving, air con on, gear packed, two cameras checked and double checked the night before.

I arrived at 11.30am, a full two hours before the 1.30pm ceremony. When it's a venue you've not shot before you need that time. Where's the light falling at midday? Where will the group shots work when the sun has moved? Where can we steal five minutes for portraits later without taking the couple too far from their guests? That recce time is just as important as the photography itself. You can't wing it on a new venue.

I arrived at the Radisson Blu in a light drizzle. The morning was overcast but thankfully not cold, and after gathering my camera equipment I made my way up to the bridal suite on the fourth floor.

When I walked through the door, I was shocked.

It was totally calm!

Now, there was a very good reason for my surprise.

I had met Casey about a week earlier to run through the photography arrangements for the wedding and, at that meeting, she had been in what I can only describe as full panic mode!

Some weddings are beautiful, some are unforgettable, and then there are weddings like Surbhi and Dale's, where two rich traditions come together to create something truly extraordinary. Today I had the absolute privilege of photographing not one, but two spectacular wedding ceremonies at the stunning Blackwell Grange Hotel in Darlington. The day began with a traditional British wedding ceremony before moving into a vibrant and deeply meaningful Hindu Vivaha ceremony, giving family and friends the opportunity to celebrate two cultures, two traditions and one incredible love story.

Blackwell Grange Hotel provided the perfect setting for such a remarkable occasion. Steeped in history, the elegant Grade II* listed country house dates back to the early 18th century and was built for the renowned Darlington industrialist George Allan around 1710. Over the centuries it has been home to influential families before being transformed into the beautiful hotel we know today, blending historic Georgian architecture with modern luxury while retaining its timeless charm. Set within acres of picturesque parkland on the edge of Darlington, it is one of the North East's most prestigious wedding venues and an ideal backdrop for a celebration as special as Surbhi and Dale's.

Durham: a city of history, charm, and ancient stone that glows gold in the sun. Home to one of the UK’s most breathtaking cathedrals, cobbled streets steeped in centuries of story, and — as of now — one of the most unforgettable weddings I’ve had the pleasure of photographing.

Natalie and Richie’s wedding at St Chad’s College was my first visit to this incredible venue, and I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction. Nestled quietly in the shadow of Durham Cathedral, this tucked-away gem has the elegance of a fairytale location without any of the pretentiousness. Think Harry Potter architecture meets heartfelt modern love story, and you’re halfway there.

As a wedding photographer, I get to witness love in all its forms—from big bold celebrations in castles to heartfelt, intimate registry office weddings by the coast. Jennifer and Ben’s wedding at North Shields Register Office was one of those magical days where everything just felt right. It had sunshine, it had emotion, it had a lot of laughter—and it had Louie and Logan, two proud sons who stole the show more than once.

Let me take you through this unforgettable North East wedding day—from pre wedding nerves to the evening dance floor at King Street Social Club.

As a wedding photographer, every new venue brings its own unique challenges and opportunities, and Emma and Pete's wedding at Newton Hall on the Northumberland Coast near Seahouses was no exception. From the moment I arrived, with the sun shining brilliantly, I knew it was going to be a fabulous day.

As a wedding photographer, I’m always excited about the opportunity to capture the special day of two people in love. The thrill of documenting those precious moments is amplified when the venue is as breathtaking and steeped in history as Newton Hall in Northumberland. Although I haven’t been there before, I’ve heard about the venue’s unique charm and elegance. This blog post is my exploration of Newton Hall’s rich history, what I expect during Emma and Pete’s wedding, and my plans for capturing unforgettable photographs. Let’s look forward to this journey together!

Having photographed six weddings in eight days, I thought I'd seen it all. Yet, Rayanna and Danny's celebration at the Woodhouse Close Church in Bishop Auckland, followed by a lively reception at Evenwood Club, was a refreshing reminder of why I fell in love with wedding photography in the first place.

Nicola and Rob's Magical Wedding Day at North Shields

As a wedding photographer, each celebration I capture is unique, and the wedding of Francesca and Chris was no exception. The day was filled with laughter, love, and some unexpected but delightful surprises that made their day truly unforgettable. Having the privilege of being part of such a special day is always an honour, but this particular wedding at The Story, Mount Oswald, Durham, followed by a reception at The Sheraton Lounge in Newton Aycliffe’s Big Club, was one for the books.

Reflecting on the day, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Amanda and Laura’s wedding at Branxholm Park House was everything they had dreamed of and more. It was a celebration of love, friendship, and joy, a day where every detail came together to create something truly magical.

As I set out on this journey to capture Amanda and Laura's special day, I can't help but feel a surge of excitement. Tomorrow’s venue, Branxholm Park House in Hawick, Scotland, promises not just a beautiful backdrop but also a fascinating slice of history. As a wedding photographer with a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for heritage, I’m thrilled at the opportunity to work in such an illustrious location.

Today I have had the absolute pleasure of photographing Maxine and Thomas' unforgettable wedding at the newly reopened Country pub, The George, in the idyllic village of Piercebridge. This event was nothing short of magical, and I'm excited to share the details. Not only will you get a glimpse into their special day, but you'll also learn a bit about the rich history of The George, a beloved landmark in Piercebridge.

St. Catherine’s Church and Redworth Hall both provided the perfect setting for this celebration. Historical charm and serene beauty added a timeless quality to the day. The warmth of the sun, the heartfelt service by Linda, and the joy of family and friends all came together to create a day that was truly special.

1. Eat and Stay Hydrated: Make sure to have a healthy breakfast and keep snacks and water nearby.

2. Take Moments for Herself: Take a few moments throughout the day to breathe, relax, and enjoy the moment.

3. Have a Timeline: Stick to the wedding day schedule to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Every bride dreams of capturing the magical moments of her wedding day in photographs that she can cherish forever. However, for many, the thought of being in front of the camera can be daunting. If you’re one of those brides who feels a flutter of nerves at the sight of a photographer, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Here are ten top tips from John Alderson Wedding Photography to help you overcome your fear and feel confident on your big day.