From Nerves to Joy: My First Wedding Photography Adventure at the Cliff Hotel
- Elina
- 8 hours ago
- 4 min read
Starting out as a wedding photographer is a mix of excitement and nerves, especially when it’s your very first solo job. Back in June 2019, I found myself stepping into this new chapter with a camera in hand, a six-month-old baby in tow, and a heart full of hope. The venue was the stunning Cliff Hotel & Spa in Cardigan, a place that perfectly captures the beauty of the Welsh coast. This is the story of how that day unfolded, the lessons I learned, and why it shaped the way I work as a south Wales wedding photographer today.
The Beginning of Something Special
I’ll never forget the mix of emotions that morning. I had my 6 month old baby with me, which was both comforting and realistically - a little distracting! My husband and mother stayed overnight to help out, which was a huge relief. I was so nervous, not just because it was my first solo wedding photography job, but because I wanted to do right by Kelly and Dave. They were friends of friends and had trusted me with capturing one of the most important days of their lives and for that, I will always be grateful.
Before the wedding, we had a lovely spring engagement shoot at Ynysangharad War Memorial Park in Pontypridd. Kelly, Dave, their son Harri, and newborn Awen made the session feel easy and fun. That shoot gave me a glimpse of the warmth and joy that would fill their wedding day. It also helped me build confidence, knowing I could capture genuine moments.
The Challenge of the Weather at the Cliff Hotel
The Cliff Hotel is truly a dream location for a wedding photographer in south Wales. Its breathtaking sea views and dramatic cliffs make for stunning backdrops. But on the day of Kelly and Dave’s wedding, the weather had other plans. Torrential rain kept us indoors, and I had to quickly rethink my approach.
Instead of the outdoor portraits I had imagined, I explored the hotel for spots that could work. The beautiful staircase became our main backdrop. Kelly and Dave preferred to keep their photos brief so they could spend more time with their guests, which meant I had to be efficient and creative.
This experience taught me a valuable lesson: weddings rarely go exactly as planned, especially when it comes to weather. Since then, I always carry pretty umbrellas and stay alert for any short breaks in the rain to sneak outside for a few shots. Even a quick ten-minute outdoor session can add so much to the story of the day.
Capturing the Day’s Vibe
Despite the rain, the atmosphere at the wedding was relaxed and joyful. The whole party was smiling and enjoying themselves, which made my job easier. Kelly and Dave’s choice to focus on their guests rather than lengthy photo sessions created a natural flow to the day.
As a wedding photographer, it’s important to adapt to the couple’s wishes and the mood of the event. For me, this meant capturing candid moments, laughter, and the energy of the celebration. The party was lively, and the smiles never stopped. Those genuine emotions are what make wedding photos truly special.
What I Learned from My First Wedding
Looking back, that first wedding taught me more than just technical skills. It showed me the importance of flexibility, preparation, and connection. Here are some key takeaways I carry with me:
Expect the unexpected: Weather, timing, and moods can change. Being ready to adapt is crucial.
Bring support if you need it: Having my family nearby made a huge difference.
Build trust with your couple: Kelly and Dave’s faith in me gave me confidence.
Keep it simple when needed: Sometimes less is more, especially when couples want to enjoy their day.
Always have backup plans: Umbrellas, indoor spots, and quick outdoor windows can save the day.
Why This Matters to You as an Engaged Couple
Choosing a wedding photographer is about more than just pictures. It’s about finding someone who understands your day, your priorities, and can handle surprises with calm and creativity. My first wedding experience at the Cliff Hotel showed me how important it is to be flexible and focused on what truly matters: capturing your story.
If you’re planning a wedding in south Wales, especially at a place like the Cliff Hotel, consider how your photographer handles challenges. Will they keep things moving smoothly? Can they find beauty even when the weather isn’t perfect? These qualities make a difference in how your memories are preserved.
Final Thoughts
That first wedding was a rollercoaster of nerves and joy. It pushed me to grow and shaped my approach as a wedding photographer. The Cliff Hotel, with its stunning views and unexpected rain, became the backdrop for a day I will always remember.
If you’re looking for a south Wales wedding photographer who values real moments, adapts to your needs, and brings a calm, creative energy to your day, I’d love to connect. Your wedding will have its own surprises, but together we can make sure your photos tell the story you want to remember forever.
Ready to chat about your wedding photography? Let’s make your day unforgettable, rain or shine!
