Naomi & Daniel Wedding Day, Wynyard Hall Stockton On Tees
NAOMI & DANIEL
Naomi & Daniel chose to say “I do” at the breathtaking Wynyard Hall, just outside of Stockton, and honestly, it couldn’t have been more perfect. From the moment you arrive, the venue delivers all kinds of Bridgerton vibes, a dramatic stately frontage, a serene private lake, and those endless tree-lined avenues that feel like they’ve been designed purely for romance. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down, take a breath, and soak it all in.
I first met Naomi and Daniel at one of their friends’ weddings, so when they later got in touch to ask me to photograph their own big day, I was absolutely over the moon. There’s nothing quite like being chosen by a couple who already know and trust your work. They booked me specifically for my well-known natural, storytelling approach to photography, no stiff posing, no standing around feeling awkward. Instead, movement, interaction, laughter, and genuine moments. That style was perfect for these two… and, let’s be honest, it was the only approach that was ever going to work with Tommy, their little wild child. Making things fun and relaxed was key, and that energy shines through in every single image.
The morning began in the Gardener’s Cottage with all the girls, and it was such a lovely, laid-back start to the day. There was a real buzz in the air as hair and makeup were being done, dresses hung neatly waiting for their moment, and laughter echoing through the rooms. One of my favourite moments was the quiet, emotional exchange between Naomi and her dad, followed by a beautiful first-look reveal, one of those moments that feels incredibly intimate and special. From there, it was off to the hall in true fairytale style, travelling by horse and carriage pulled by two stunning Friesians. If you know me, you’ll know this was completely up my street, romantic, cinematic, and well…. anything horse wins for me!
Booked almost two years in advance, the day had felt like an eternity in the making, but that just made it all the more special when it finally arrived. Along the way, Naomi had asked for my advice on various details, so by the time the wedding came around, I genuinely felt like part of the journey rather than just the photographer. We decided on a 12:00pm ceremony, which was a great choice for a winter wedding, with daylight being precious, we knew we’d be chasing the light later on.
The ceremony itself was heartfelt and emotional, with Tommy completely stealing the show. He set the tone from the very start, bravely walking down the aisle in a flurry of rose petals. We honestly didn’t know if he’d do it, but he clearly knew this was his moment, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. It was one of those beautifully imperfect, unforgettable moments that make weddings so special.
Afterwards, Naomi and Daniel were greeted outside by all of their family and friends for the iconic confetti shot. I always suggest they pause for a little kiss in the middle — partly for romance, and partly because history tells me that 99% of the time, someone ends up with confetti in their eye. It’s those tiny pauses and natural interactions that turn a great moment into an epic photograph.
As the day unfolded, it just kept getting better and better. Before heading into the celebrations, we stole Naomi & Daniel away for a relaxed wander around the stunning grounds for their couple photos. No awkward posing, no forced moments, just the two of them walking, chatting, laughing, and soaking it all in. Shooting naturally like this allowed their connection to shine through, creating images that feel effortless, timeless, and completely them.
The speeches were an absolute highlight of the day, heartfelt, hilarious, and perfectly pitched. There were tears, big belly laughs, and so many moments where the room just felt full of love. You could really feel how adored Naomi & Daniel are by their family and friends, and it was one of those times where I could happily have put the cameras down and just listened… almost.
As evening fell, the celebrations continued with a magical sparkler exit, lighting up the night and ending the day on the biggest high. It was the perfect build-up to their first dance, a beautiful, emotional moment that felt intimate despite the packed dance floor. A truly unforgettable way to round off an incredible wedding day, from start to finish.
‘From the moment we got engaged we knew we wanted Claire to be our photographer from doing our friend's wedding. We didn't need to look elsewhere!
From the moment you book Claire, she's not just a photographer, shes also a friend from checking in on you to giving you recommendations and advice so your special day runs smoothly.
The preshoots are so good to have! Claire made us feel so at ease, plus it was fun, and we are not photogenic types of people. Overall, I have no words! Claire is just amazing at what she does! You get sneak peeks of a few photos the same day on your wedding day, helps you if needed the morning of the wedding and captures such special moments.’
I would recommend Claire every time!!
