I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again — I absolutely adore working at The Story. It's not just the stunning decor, the immaculate rooms, or the thoughtful layout. It’s the staff. The wonderful people who run this place are kind, welcoming, professional, and always go the extra mile. It really does feel like home when I walk through those doors. Jean, Darren, and I were welcomed with warm smiles and genuine care, as always — and that tone carried beautifully throughout their no-fuss wedding day.

When I arrived at West Auckland Manor House Hotel on a gloriously warm spring afternoon, I had a feeling this day was going to be something special. And it was. From start to finish, Chrissie and John’s wedding was full of sunshine, laughter, and love – the kind of wedding every photographer hopes to be part of.

As a North East wedding photographer, I’ve been fortunate enough to capture some incredible days – but this one was truly something else. Set against the picturesque backdrop of one of County Durham’s most charming venues, the day was relaxed, elegant, emotional, and brimming with joy. Let me take you through it, one magical moment at a time.

West Auckland Manor House, nestled in the heart of the North East of England, stands as one of the region’s most exquisite wedding venues. Combining historical charm with modern luxury, this stunning manor house offers a perfect setting for couples looking to create unforgettable memories on their special day. Whether you are planning an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, West Auckland Manor House provides an ideal space for every type of wedding.

Nestled in the heart of County Durham, Hardwick Hall stands as one of the North East's most captivating wedding venues. Its rich history, magnificent architecture, and beautiful surroundings make it the perfect setting for couples seeking a blend of elegance and charm for their big day. Whether you envision a grand celebration or an intimate ceremony, Hardwick Hall offers a versatile space that caters to all kinds of weddings.

In just a couple of weeks, I’ll be photographing the wedding of Jean and Darren—and yes, it’s happening at my absolute favourite venue, The Story in Durham. Now, if you know me at all (and if you follow my work, you probably do), you’ll know how much I love shooting weddings at The Story. It’s one of those rare venues that combines elegance, charm, and architectural beauty in one pristine package.

Hey everyone! I'm so excited to finally announce something I've been working on: my brand-new Photography for Beginners course! I've poured my heart into designing a program that's not just informative, but genuinely fun and engaging.

You know, I remember when I first picked up a camera. It felt like trying to decipher a foreign language! All those buttons, settings... it was overwhelming. That's why I wanted to create a course that cuts through the jargon and makes photography accessible to everyone. I want to share my passion and help you discover the joy of capturing beautiful moments.

As a wedding photographer, there’s always something exciting about capturing a couple’s special day at a new venue. Horton Grange, an elegant country house set in the heart of Northumberland, is a hidden gem that offers a blend of Georgian charm and contemporary luxury. I had the absolute pleasure of photographing Leigh and Michael’s wedding at this stunning venue, and what a day it was! From the lively bridal preparations to the excitement of the wedding party, heartfelt speeches, and an unforgettable sparkler-lit evening, it was a day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

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.

Photography is more than just taking pictures—it’s a powerful tool for creativity, storytelling, confidence-building, and self-expression. My new program offers engaging 3-hour workshops where students will explore the art of photography using mobile phones or basic cameras, making it accessible and affordable for schools.

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?

Ah, snow days. For most, they’re a dreamy pause button on life – cozy blankets, endless tea, and maybe a snowball fight if you’re feeling adventurous. For me? They’re a reminder that while the outside world is frozen in chaos, the real storm is inside my office

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.