There’s something utterly wonderful about photographing weddings at the Bodleian Library, and this autumn wedding perfectly captured everything I love about this venue. From the moment I arrived at The Old Bank Hotel to capture the bridal preparations, I knew this would be a day filled with Oxford’s most iconic moments.

Morning Light & Oxford City Views

Let me tell you about the bride’s choice of getting-ready location – The Old Bank Hotel’s ‘Room With a View’ has to be the best bridal preparation spot in Oxford. The terrace offers breathtaking views of Oxford’s famous spires and the iconic Radcliffe Camera. It’s the perfect backdrop for those all-important detail shots of the dress, shoes, and jewellery. As a photographer, it’s the kind of space that makes my heart sing.

The Charm of Convocation House

When it came time for the ceremony, Convocation House provided that perfect blend of intimacy and grandeur that makes Bodleian weddings so special. This historic space, licensed for civil ceremonies, created the most incredible backdrop for the wedding vows. The way the light streamed through those ancient windows during their exchange of rings? Pure photography gold.

Duke Humphrey’s Library Photography: A Private Moment

After the ceremony, we were treated to something truly special. As couples hosting their celebration at the Bodleian have special access to Duke Humphrey’s Library, we seized the opportunity for some beautiful portraits. Imagine this lovely couple, fresh from saying their vows, surrounded by centuries of books and history. The warm glow of the library’s lighting, those endless rows of ancient manuscripts, the intimate atmosphere – it all came together perfectly.

What makes these library photos so special:

• The warm, wonderful light from the ancient windows make for perfect portraits
• Those endless rows of ancient books creating perfect leading lines
• The intimate atmosphere that feels centuries away from the modern world
• The medieval architecture that frames every shot beautifully

Bridge of Sighs: The Perfect Confetti Shot

Then came one of my favuorite moments – the confetti shot under the Bridge of Sighs. If you’re looking for that quintessential Oxford wedding photo, this is it! The joy on everyone’s faces, the historic bridge arching overhead, and that perfect shower of confetti creating the most magical atmosphere. It’s these moments that make Oxford weddings truly unique.

Dancing the Night Away at The Randolph Hotel

The celebration continued at The Randolph Hotel, where the elegance of their Oxford wedding carried through into the evening. From the emotional speeches to the energy on the dance floor that lasted well into the night, every moment told another chapter of their love story.

Tips for Your Bodleian Wedding Photos

Having captured many weddings at the Bodleian Library, here are some insider tips that made their photos extra special:

Timing is Everything

The venue allows ceremonies between 9am and 3pm, and trust me – each time of day has its own special magic. Morning light streams through those Gothic windows like liquid gold, while early afternoon gives us the perfect soft light for outdoor portraits in the Quad.

Embrace the Architecture

The Bodleian isn’t just a backdrop – it’s part of your story. Let’s work with those soaring ceilings, those historic details, those centuries-old stones. They’re not just beautiful; they’re witnesses to hundreds of love stories, and now they’ll be part of yours.

The Little Moments

While the grand architectural shots are stunning, don’t forget about the intimate moments: your reflection in an ancient window, the way your dress trails across those historic floors, the look on your partner’s face as you walk down the aisle. These are the details that make your story uniquely yours.

Planning Your Timeline

Taking inspiration from this perfect day, here’s what works beautifully:

• Start with getting-ready photos in a room with great natural light (The Old Bank Hotel is perfect!)
• Plan for couples portraits around the Radcliffe Camera- here are some of my favourite photo locations in Oxford
• Don’t forget to schedule time for those special Duke Humphrey’s Library shots
• Include iconic Oxford locations like the Bridge of Sighs in your photo timeline
• Leave time for spontaneous moments (trust me, this place inspires them)

A Personal Note

Every Bodleian wedding is special, but this wedding celebration perfectly showcased why this venue is so enchanting. From the historic ceremony space to the literary romance of Duke Humphrey’s Library, from the iconic Bridge of Sighs to the elegant reception at The Randolph – their day wove together Oxford’s most beautiful spaces into one unforgettable story.

Let’s create something equally wonderful for your special day. After all, your love story deserves to be told against one of Oxford’s most magnificent backdrops. Get in touch to book me!

Wedding Suppliers

Cake – Cake by Rachel
Flowers – Joanna Carter
Band – Milo Max Band
String Duo – Manor House Music
Photobooth – The PBooth Company
Photographer – Rachel Movitz Photography