Frequently Asked Questions

I always love chatting, especially over a glass of wine! But to help with your big decision, here are some answers to questions I often get asked by couples interested in booking me. I’m always happy to talk through them in more detail, or answer any other questions you may have, so please feel free to use the contact form to get in touch!

How do you work on the day?

My aim is to make you and all your guests feel as comfortable as possible. Even if I’ve got a giant camera in your face, I want everyone to realise I’m not scary at all. Whether I do that by cracking an awful joke, eagerly saying hello to your friend’s baby, or simply smiling and saying “Hi!’ to everyone I walk past, my aim to make you all feel utterly at ease. By making positive connections to people quickly, I encourage those around me to relax, helping the images feel more genuine and natural.

I’m driven by light and interesting compositions. And moments. And if there’s one thing that’ll be in abundance at your wedding, it’s going to be beautiful moments that are worth remembering. I’ll walk around all day, subtly documenting gorgeous things as they happen. From huge milestones during the ceremony, to quiet, heartfelt conversations happening between relatives that haven’t seen each other in a while. Big or small, I love capturing all the individual pieces that make up your big day.

I’m very chilled out in terms of letting the day flow naturally around me. The only time I offer any instruction will be during portraits of you two, or the bigger group shots. During these, I try to make people feel as relaxed as possible, usually by taking the mickey out of myself and giving you guys the upper hand! I’ll work in a friendly way with you to produce the images that you want.

Other than portraits, I tend to stay out of directing people and just let everyone do their thing. Very occasionally though, there are times that I might interject. For example, if in the morning I think you could be doing your make up in a nice bit of window light nearby; I might encourage you towards it. Or maybe during the bouquet toss I might suggest where people could stand. Or if there’s an epic sunset happening a few meters outside the door during your dessert... You get the idea! But for the most part, I very much leave it up to you guys. I promise!

I genuinely love my job, and I hope that shows through in my work. I try to bring happiness and love to each wedding I shoot, and for me it’s an approach that really seems to work. I think it’s incredibly powerful, and I’m super grateful to every couple who give me the responsibility of capturing one of the most important days in their lives. I can’t wait to meet you!

Do you travel?

Yes! I’m based in Hastings, but happily travel all over the UK and internationally for jobs all the time. For international bookings, I require that all flights, accommodation and airport transfer fees are covered. For UK jobs over 2 hours away, I do ask that I’m provided with accommodation the night before and the night of the job - this allows me to relax and concentrate fully on shooting your big day!

Do we sign a contract?

Yes. I have a booking form and contact that I require all couples to fill out before confirming the booking. This protects both parties. It ensures that I turn up on the day and you get your photos afterwards, and it ensures that I get paid on time! It also covers areas such as photo editing, cancellation issues and copyright policies. If you’d like to look through a copy of the paperwork, drop me a line and I’ll send it over.

How do we get the photos?

You receive the images on a craft eco USB stick. You get high res copies of the files for printing, and web res versions for online use. You get colour and black and white versions of each image. You also get a private password protected online gallery of the images to share with your guests, with the high res available for download. The gallery expires after 6 months, so please ensure you have everything downloaded and backed up.

How long do you stay for?

I tend to stay for an hour past your first dance. It does vary from wedding to wedding, depending on the level of activity. Rest assured that I’ll only ever leave once I feel like I’ve told the full story of your day. If you’ve booked me for a shorter day, my end time will vary depending on your timings, but I’ll obviously never just leave without checking in with you first. In this scenario, I can stay later for additional fee of £150 p/h.

Do you scout the locations beforehand?

Sometimes, depending on the logistics of the shoot and how obscure the venue is. For overseas bookings, I tend to travel two days before, and then spend the day before the wedding scouting and familiarising myself with the venue(s) and routes between them. For UK weddings, if I feel scouting the location is appropriate, I’ll let you know and we can arrange a time with the venue.

How will we know you’re the right photographer?

I think you’ll just know. You’ll be looking through my work, and you’ll just immediately recognise if it’s the right aesthetic and vibe for you. I always tell couples that if you see my portfolio and you want the same look and feel for your photos, then that’s a great indication that I could be a strong choice. If you’re looking at my photos and something doesn’t feel quite right, then maybe I’m not the right photographer. And that’s okay! There are so many talented people out there, make sure you pick someone with a portfolio that really reflects what it is that you want. And make sure you meet me, or whoever it is beforehand. Get to know us a little bit. Really be confident with your choice, it’s not just the photos that are important, it’s the person as well!

How would you describe your work?

Moments captured in a beautiful way. I love good light, interesting compositions, and the most important thing for me is that what’s happening in the photo is delightful and compelling to observe. I love lines and linear compositions. Shooting scenarios from alternative perspectives to what you might expect. I like capturing a photograph with multiple layers of activity, interesting stuff happening in the foreground and background simultaneously. I shoot your whole day on a shallow depth of field, apart from group portraits and dancing shots later in the evening. This is quite typical of wedding photography, where you have the main subject in focus and the background is blurry. It just gives everything an airy and beautiful feel, and really helps to hone in on the significance of the moment being captured.

Do you take formal family photos?

Yes! Although these do take some time to organise and capture. I tend to suggest keeping these to around 10 separate shots, to ensure I have time to naturally capture your reception as well. I’ll always ask for a list in advance to make it quicker on the day. It’s also a great idea to designate a person from each side to help me gather the correct people for each shot.

Do we meet before the day?

I always meet my couples beforehand! It’s I organise a Zoom meeting before you book to answer any questions you might have, and another closer to the day to go over the finalised plans. I think it’s really important for you to feel comfortable with me before the day and these meetings help us build a connection and hash out the logistics.

Do you require a deposit?

Yes. Upon the signing of the contract a 25% non-refundable booking fee is required to confirm the booking. This acts as a deposit and is then deducted from your remaining balance, which is due no later than 14 days before your wedding day. The details needed for the transfer are on the paperwork. Payments should be made via electronic bank transfer.

Do you provide prints?

Depending on your package, prints are included. If they’re not already included in your package, then I can provide them for an additional cost. Additionally, I can supply fine art prints, canvasses, photo books, albums, household gifts and much more. I can send over a full price list of these items upon enquiry. They are also available to order at any point through your online gallery.

Do you supply albums?

If you’ve chosen “The Works” package, a fine art album is part of your deal. Additionally, fine art albums can be purchased on top of your wedding photo booking, with prices starting at £500. I work with you to design the layout and then use a bespoke album maker based in the UK called Folio Albums for the manufacture. They handcraft beautiful, sustainable albums built to last a lifetime. They have many options in terms of cover material, paper type, personalisation and number of spreads. Click here for more info.

Are you insured?

Absolutely. Myself and my equipment are all fully insured throughout the UK and the EU as standard. I also have a certain amount of weeks a year for outside EU overseas cover as well. I have public and product liability insurance, both up to the amount of £5 million. If a second photographer is working with me on the day, I will only work with them if I can make sure they are adequately insured. Touch wood, nothing has ever gone wrong on the day, but rest assured that we’re covered if something does.

Are there different packages?

Yes, I offer five packages. The Mini, The Essential, The Classic, The Premium and The Works package. Ranging from short coverage with just a gallery, to full day coverage with an engagement shoot, USB, prints and a bespoke album. You can find out more information on all of them by clicking here. I’ve designed the packages so that there should be something to suit everyone’s timing and budgetary needs, but if you can’t find a package that’s right for you, just send me an email and we can work something out.

Do you offer engagement shoots?

Yes! These are a great way for us to get to know each other and for you both to get used to what I’m like during a photoshoot. We will shoot in a location of your choice and spend 2 hours together. This definitely helps you two to feel comfortable in front of the camera by the time your wedding day comes around. If you’ve booked a Premium or The Works package, these are included as standard. Alternatively, if you have a smaller package booked but decide you want an engagement shoot, they can be purchased for an additional standalone cost of £350. Click here to find out more.

Do you work with second photographers?

I do indeed. Not all the time, I have a lot of experience photographing weddings solo and am more than capable of doing so. But sometimes if your timings are tight, or there are lots of guests, or you’re getting ready in different places in the morning and want photos of the both of you, a second photographer is required! I have a great network of super talented photographers to call upon, and I’ll always let you have a say in who I end up picking. I want you to be as comfortable with the choice as I am. Second photographers cost £350, click here to find out more.

Can we send our photos out to blogs and magazines?

Of course you can! My wedding photographs are regularly featured in some of the most prominent wedding press out there. The exposure is great for me and my business, so I’m always chuffed when couples ask me about this. I only ask that you let me know where you’re sending them to beforehand, just so I can keep track of where my images are being shared/printed. Please credit me “Rachel Manns Weddings” linking back to this website, and provide them with my instagram: @rachelmannsweddings ! If you need help making a selection, let me know and I’ll always be happy to help you do a mini edit of your day, I love putting stories together.

Can we choose to keep our photos private?

Of course you can. I’ve photographed lots of weddings for people who’d rather their images weren’t shared online. I’ve also photographed lots for high profile clientele where an NDA is required. Privacy is your right, especially in this day and age when everything we do seems to be shared everywhere. I promise to respect your wishes if you tell me you’d rather keep the images to yourself and don’t want me to use them online or on social media. Also, if you do grant me permission to use your images on my website and then change your mind, that’s absolutely fine! I want you to feel comfortable with how your images are used, and I understand that that may change over time.

What if you can’t make it on the day?

This has never happened! However, in an emergency situation, I am contractually obligated to find you a replacement, ideally with a similar style to my own, otherwise a full refund is issued. I will always strive to get someone suitable to you on time. I have a great network of super talented photographers to call upon, and backup systems in place should I need to find a replacement quickly. Touch wood, this has and will never happen, but it’s good for you guys to be aware of the procedure. If the absolute worst case scenario happens and I cannot attend due to reasons beyond my control, my family and loved ones are clued up on how to find you a suitable replacement in my absence - but let’s hope it doesn’t come to that!

Can we get copies of the unedited RAW files?

Usually not, sorry! I really don’t like supplying RAW files for all sorts of reasons. Mainly, because I shoot thousands upon thousands of images on the day, so the size of the folder is usually around 120GB…it’s a pain to transfer! Also, my signature editing is massively part of my work. The way I work the tones and colours of every image is something that I take a lot of time doing and have immense pride in. It’s as much part of my process as framing the shot, or choosing when to click the shutter. It’s a huge part of my visual identity. I guess it’s a bit like asking a musician to release an unmastered song and then getting someone else with an entirely different sound to master it - which actually, at times, can be really cool, but it’s not the sound true to the artist.

Also, it’s just too overwhelming for you to sift though the sheer volume of shots. There’s a magic to going through the selection I’ve put together for you, and it really breaks the spell when you’re suddenly faced with an image of you during your vows with your eyes half shut and your mouth contorted! I ask my clients to trust my eye when it comes to selecting the best shots from the day. To make sure I get all of the key moments and people, I ask you to provide me with lots of information in advance. If you’re really adamant on getting access to the RAW files, I have a flat RAW release fee of £650 for the whole amount. I ask to not be credited or associated with the work if other editing is applied.

Do you drive and have a car?

Yes I do, and I always allow massively for traffic delays. It’s important to factor in a parking space for me, and realistic driving times between venues. During overseas bookings, I’m comfortable hiring a car and driving on the opposite side of the road, although I do prefer to have airport transfer and taxis sorted out for me if that’s an option. For London weddings, especially in the city centre, I don’t tend to drive to jobs, opting for public transport or taxis to minimise parking related delays.

Do you delete our photos after a while?

Nope! I’m a bit of a data hoarder actually… Your images will stay on a hard drive somewhere, gathering dust over the years. However, I always, always advise my couples to make their own back up of their images. Incase over time my hard drives fail, or something happens to me. It’s also worth noting that you get your images in a private online gallery with the high res available to download for 6 months. I always advise making your own back up, incase anything happens to their servers.

Will we get a photo of every guest?

I can’t guarantee that I’ll get a killer reportage shot of every single guest at your wedding, especially if you have a huge guest list and a tight schedule, but I’ll definitely get one of each of your family and closest friends. I recommend you providing me with a “VIP” shot list in advance before your wedding day, so I know who’s a priority to capture. This can be annotated on a copy of your table plan. We can also do a big group shot of everyone, providing there’s the space, height and enough time to do it in.

What if it rains on the day?

It very well could, and that’s okay! Try not to worry about this too much, some of the most fun weddings I’ve photographed have been ones where it’s chucked it down! It’s even added to the atmosphere. Plus, you can get some really cool light before and after rain showers. Just make sure you organise your day with a plan B scenario in place if you are going for anything outdoors. And if you are having an outdoor wedding, why not source some wedding wellies and a brolly just in case.

What if we hate having our photo taken?

Please don’t worry! About 85% of the couples you see on this website said the exact same thing to me. Helping you both to overcome the fear of my camera and making you feel comfortable with me is all part of my job. Most of the time, you won’t realise that I’m taking your photo, and when you do spot me out of the corner of your eye, you’ll quickly be distracted by something else far more interesting happening, like marrying the person you love the most in the whole wide world! During your portrait session, I’ll make it as enjoyable and relaxing as possible. They go a lot quicker than you’d imagine. It’s also nice for you two to get away from your guests for 20 minutes, to have a little breather and fully process the fact that you just got married!

How early do you start?

I tend to arrive for getting ready shots around 2.5 - 3 hours before your ceremony is due to start. Obviously, due to individual logistics and the package booked, this can vary hugely from job to job. I like to take my time in the morning getting detail shots of shoes/dresses/rings etc, and to still have ample time to capture you and your loved ones getting all glammed up! If I’m shooting both of you getting ready, extra arrangements need to be made timing and logistic wise, although this isn’t an issue if a second photographer has been booked. I always ask that the room(s) are kept as tidy and clutter free as possible, it’s always a bit annoying when I have a stunning image and then notice a Tesco bag in the background! I’ll also massively appreciate some tea/coffee/breakfast if it’s going, I’ll need the fuel!

Do you make a back up of our photos?

Yes, your images are always backed up on two separate hard drives. Once the final photos are edited, these high res print ready images are backed up twice as well, alongside being added to your private online gallery, where you can download for up to 6 months. I always, always advise couples to make their own back ups of their wedding photos once they’ve been received and continue to do so periodically over time, as I can’t 100% guarantee that all my drives and disks will work forever.

Do you have any dietary requirements?

I am allergic to most fresh fruits, especially berries, and some raw nuts, which is a real shame as they’re so delicious! But don’t worry, it’s not a serious allergy and I always have antihistamines on me. So far, no allergy related dramas have ever happened to me at a wedding I’ve photographed. Meal wise, I require the vegetarian or vegan option. And access to tea making facilities for when my own thermos runs dry would be ideal! Any concerns, put me in contact with your caterer.

What if we don’t want any portraits?

That’s absolutely fine! You can have as many or as little set up portraits as you like. Some couple opt for lots, others have none at all. I always ask couples opting to have no portraits, to really think about it for a while. I’ll get lots of lovely shots of you two enjoying your day together, but sometimes it’s nice to have a couple of portraits, even if just for your family! If you’re adamant that you only want candid shots of you both, then rest assured that I’ll capture your love naturally. It’s your day after all, let’s do it your way.

What if we need to cancel you?

Let’s hope that doesn’t happen! However, if for whatever reason you need to cancel your booking with me, notice must be given in clear writing via email, and I must acknowledge that I’ve received it. The non refundable booking fee of 25% will be lost. And then, timing dependent, the following sums will be due: Notice given less than 16 weeks before the wedding day, the sum equal to 50% of the balance owed will be due. Notice given less than 4 weeks before the wedding: the whole remaining balance owed will be payable.

What do you need from us in advance?

I need a detailed breakdown of your day, including timings and locations/addresses. I’ll need contact details for the both of you, plus for some of your loved ones who will be with you in the morning. I’ll need a list of any formal family photos you want, and an assigned person from each side that I can ask to help gather the people on the day. A ‘VIP‘ shot list of the most important people you absolutely need shots of from your wedding, I find that an annotated version of your seating plan is a good way of doing this. I’ll need you to organise any transport necessary if this applies. I’ll also need catering taken care of, see dietary requirements question. Thanks!

Do you do other types of photography?

I do indeed! I'm a commercial, advertising, lifestyle and fashion photographer during the week. I’ve photographed campaigns for the likes of BBC Studios, Penguin Books, Bulmers, Audible, Birdsong London, Oxfam and Island Records. I’ve had my work published countless times by titles such as The Guardian, The Times, Vogue, Marie Claire, Refinery29 and The Huffington Post.

You can visit rachelmanns.com to see lots of my non-wedding work, or use the contact form to get in touch about a potential commission.

What accommodation is suitable for you?

I require the following necessities:

• Bed in a private room

• Electricity & hot water

• WiFi connection

• On-site parking

I do ask that if accommodation can’t be provided at the venue itself, that it’s provided somewhere fairly close by. This allows me to relax and to fully focus on capturing your wedding day without worrying about logistics.

How does the copyright work?

You own the personal copyright to the photos. You can share and distribute them in print and online for personal use as much as you like, as long as you do not claim that anyone other than myself (or second photographer) took them. I always love a shout out or credit, but you’re not legally obligated to do. Please do so though! It’s always great having some more promotion.

We mutually own the commercial copyright. This means we do not have the right to publish or make commercial gain on the imagery without the other party’s knowledge or consent. For example, if you wanted to allow use of, or even sell, an image I took from your day to the suit maker to use for advertising purposes, you have to inform me first and we need to draw up a separate agreement. I also always have to get your consent first before a third party wants to use, or pay to use one of the images from your day. Or if a wedding blog or magazine wants to use the images, we have to let each other know beforehand and get consent.

There’s a big grey area here in terms of specific scenarios, so just send me an email or give me a call to go over anything you’re unsure about!

How do we officially book you?

Wahoo! How exciting. Let me just say a big thank you, and that I really appreciate you choosing me to photograph your big day. It’s a huge decision and I see it as a real privilege, so thanks a lot!

The first step is to send me an email displaying your interest, and letting me know your date and a bit about your wedding, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can. Once you’ve seen the paperwork, you’re happy with the package you’ve chosen, and you feel confident after our initial meeting, then we’re good to go! The final step is to sign the contract and send over the deposit. All the details you need for the payment are on the paperwork.

Additional details of the day should be added to the booking form section of the paperwork, but don’t worry if it’s too early to tell me the exact time of your cake cutting, or where one of you might be getting ready, or how many family shots you need; you can let me know all of that stuff closer to the day! Signing the contract section is key.

I absolutely cannot wait until your big day! And thanks again for choosing me, it really means the world.

@rachelmannsweddingphoto