This week we chat to Mark Gawthorne of Evolve Photography in our behind the lens interview series.
How long have you been photographing weddings for and how did you get into it?
I started at 18 as an apprentice photographer at a local studio while studying City & Guilds Photography. This was back in 1990, so I have been a full-time professional photographer for 28 years this year. We shot on medium format film back then and processed and printed our own work. It provided me with a solid grounding in photographic skills, and I transitioned to fully digital in 2003.
What do you particularly like about photographing weddings?
I thrive on creating a narrative of the day, much like a documentary. I always wanted to be a documentary or war photographer, and my inspirations are Nick Hedges and Don McCullin. Capturing moments that people might miss, working quickly, and thinking outside the box—these are aspects I love about wedding photography. Plus, it’s generally a much safer working environment than a war zone, with no flak jacket required.
What is your favourite part of the day?
Like most photographers, I love the getting ready part—the nerves of the bridal party and the anticipation. Key moments such as when the bride’s father sees his daughter in her dress for the first time, and the walking down the aisle shots when the couple’s eyes meet, always move me as well.
How would you describe your style and approach?
I’m very personable and discreet. I dress like a wedding guest and blend in, as I don’t want to stand out or be noticed. I’ve been told that I’m good at making couples and their guests feel at ease within minutes, which is key to earning trust and ensuring everyone enjoys the wedding day. I aim to do more than just capture snaps that your friends might take; I want to create a beautiful, well-thought-out, and well-executed story of the day.
Who, or what inspires you?
I teach and mentor many new photographers and have worked with numerous photographers over the years. I’m always inspired to see them excel and become amazing photographers who truly enjoy their work. Nothing is more inspiring than seeing a new photographer gain confidence and surpass their teacher!
What advice would you give to couples looking for a wedding photographer?
Look for provenance and a proven track record. Find a genuine photographer whose work you like and whose personality you think you’ll get on with. Quality photos and a great personality don’t always go hand in hand, so try to find someone with both.
What tips would you share with couples to help their day go more smoothly?
Try to book professionals with a wealth of knowledge to support you on the day, not just in photography but in all aspects of your wedding. I’ve always been on hand with a sewing kit, spare shoelaces, a penknife, and advice on how and where to pin a buttonhole, all to help make the day run smoothly. Plan well in advance, and the day will be seamless.
If there was one place in the world you would love to capture a wedding where would it be and why?
The Outer Hebrides is my favourite place. I don’t do “travel or destination” wedding photography because I live and work in the South West. We have some of the best beach and countryside venues in the UK—Dartmoor, Exmoor, Devon, and Cornwall—so why would I want to shoot anywhere else? Except maybe Luskentyre Beach in the Hebrides.
Finally… Whats the best moment you’ve had as a wedding photographer?
Over the last 17 years running Evolve, I’ve had so many memorable moments. One standout was a bride leaving a church in Cornwall in the bucket of a small vintage tractor driven by her husband. Another career highlight was being booked to photograph the wedding of the lead member of one of my favourite music acts. At the reception, he and his bandmates performed as a wedding covers band—that was awesome!