I know how overwhelming wedding planning can be, from choosing the perfect venue to sorting out all the little details that make your day special. One of the biggest concerns for couples right now is the rising cost of weddings. Everything seems to be getting more expensive—venues, catering, flowers, and even the little things like invitations and decorations. The last thing I want is for the cost of wedding photography to add more stress to your planning.

For the past six years, holidays have been something of a foreign concept to me. Work, commitments, and life in general have taken priority, meaning travel has been placed firmly on the back burner. But that is all about to change! In the first week of April, I will finally be taking a well-deserved break, and not just anywhere – I’m heading to Tarifa, Andalucía, the southernmost tip of Spain, just a stone’s throw from Morocco. But why Tarifa? The answer is simple: Birds! No, no, no, not just any birds – I’m talking about the awe-inspiring raptors and an abundance of spectacular species that make this region a birdwatcher’s paradise.

If you’ve chosen The Story as your wedding venue, congratulations! 🎉 You’ve picked one of Durham’s most elegant and stylish registry offices for your big day. With its modern yet classic aesthetic, intimate ceremony rooms, and a stunning grand staircase, it’s the perfect place to say "I do."

But here’s the thing: Your wedding photos are one of the most important keepsakes from your big day. You need a photographer who knows The Story inside and out, someone who understands how the light changes throughout the day, the best angles for timeless portraits, and—most importantly—someone who can work seamlessly with the staff to ensure a stress-free experience.

While it’s tempting to save money by hiring a friend with a camera or an inexperienced photographer, it can lead to costly regrets. Here’s why: You Only Get One Chance. A wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event—there are no re-dos. If an inexperienced photographer misses key moments, overexposes images, or fails to capture the emotion of the day, there’s no way to fix it afterward.

After years of successfully balancing a teaching career and running a wedding photography business, I am now fully dedicated to capturing your most precious moments. Since stepping away from teaching photography, my business has soared to new heights, and I’m thrilled to offer an even more personalized, detail-oriented service than ever before.

When it comes to kicking off a new year of wedding photography, there’s no better place to begin than The Story in Durham. It’s no secret that this elegant venue holds a special place in my heart. From its sophisticated charm to its seamless adaptability for weddings of all sizes, The Story offers an idyllic setting that I’ve come to love capturing. And what a pleasure it was to document Liz and Chris’s unforgettable day here as my first wedding of the year.

The beginning of a new year is often a time for fresh starts, exciting plans, and celebrations of love. At John Alderson Wedding Photography, I’m thrilled to announce a Mega Sale for all weddings taking place in January, February, and March of 2025. This limited-time offer is a chance for couples to experience professional, heartfelt wedding photography at an unbeatable price. But you might be wondering: why am I offering this?

As the year draws to a close, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible weddings I’ve been fortunate enough to photograph. Each one is special, but there’s something truly magical about finishing the year with a beautiful, intimate ceremony at one of my favourite venues, The Story in Durham. Holly and Michael’s wedding was a wonderful way to cap off what has been an unforgettable year.

The new wedding season is just around the corner! If you’re planning your Dream Wedding in 2025, now’s the time to secure your photographer. John Alderson Wedding Photography offers a relaxed, personalized approach to capture every special moment beautifully.

Are you planning your dream wedding in 2025? Don’t let the chance to capture every magical moment slip away! John Alderson Wedding Photography still has availability for 2025, but dates are filling up fast.

If you’re planning your wedding at Walworth Castle and looking for a photographer who knows the venue’s intricacies, I’d love to be part of your special day. My passion for Walworth Castle and wedding photography will ensure your photos capture every bit of magic this venue has to offer.
So, why wait? Get in touch today to learn more about my wedding photography services at Walworth Castle and to book your free consultation. Together, we’ll make sure your wedding memories are beautifully preserved in one of North East England’s most historic and romantic venues.
Walworth Castle is more than just a wedding venue; it’s a timeless setting where history and romance come together. With my experience and love for this remarkable castle, I can promise photography that does justice to both your love story and the castle’s charm. Let’s capture your fairy-tale day in the heart of North East England—complete with all the history, beauty, and yes, even a visit to the dungeon!

If you’re searching for a wedding venue that blends convenience, elegance, and affordability, Shildon Civic Hall might just be the perfect location. Located right in Shildon, this hidden gem offers a remarkable setting for both your ceremony and celebration. With newly refurbished interiors, ample space, and a team dedicated to making your day unforgettable, it’s easy to see why Shildon Civic Hall is a top choice for local couples—and why John Alderson Wedding Photography is excited to capture your day there.

When Donna and Mark booked me as their photographer, I was thrilled for two reasons. First, they’re a truly lovely couple—friendly, easygoing, and warm. From the very start, I knew their wedding day would be full of laughs, kindness, and genuine emotion. Second, they chose Newcastle Civic Centre as their venue, a place close to my heart due to my passion for Brutalism. This architectural style, also known as "Beton Brut" (French for "raw concrete"), shines through Newcastle Civic Centre, a building that encapsulates the rugged elegance of 1960s Brutalism beautifully.

I am reconnecting with every aspect of photography in a way that feels fresh, exciting, and meaningful. The thing is, my love of photography was never really lost to me; it was just hidden beneath the surface for a while, waiting to be rediscovered. Through everything, I still held onto it. Even during tougher days, when my mental health made it harder to tap into my creativity, I was still putting in 100% effort, doing my best to honour the work, my clients, and myself.

You might be wondering why someone with award-winning wedding photography credentials would offer such an affordable package when many others in the industry charge significantly more. It comes down to a few key factors that are unique to me, my lifestyle, and my beliefs.

As a wedding photographer, I often get asked about the best venues for hosting a wedding, and The Manor House Hotel in West Auckland always comes to mind. Not only is it a beautiful setting steeped in history, but it also represents excellent value for money. In this piece, I’ll explore why this venue stands out as a fantastic investment for couples looking to create unforgettable memories on their special day.