A Wedding Among Books: The Historic Duke Humphrey’s Library

The ceremony took place in the awe-inspiring Duke Humphrey’s Library, one of the oldest reading rooms in the world. Built in the 15th century, it’s a space that has witnessed centuries of learning, thought, and devotion. For book lovers and romantics alike, a Duke Humphrey’s Library wedding is something out of a fairytale with it’s long rows of ancient books, rich oak wood, and shafts of light illuminating love in its most intimate form.

The ceremony was led by Beth Hale, a celebrant who brought just the right amount of heart and presence to the moment.

Starting at the Old Bank Hotel and Strolling the Streets of Oxford

We met at the stunning Old Bank Hotel, a luxurious and stylish spot right in the heart of Oxford. The afternoon light made for dreamy portraits before we wandered through the cobbled lanes surrounding the Radcliffe Camera. Oxford’s streets are endlessly photogenic, and this quiet afternoon felt like the city had paused just for them.

Intimate Moments in the Bodleian and Beyond

After their emotional ceremony, we explored the Bodleian Library further, stopping beneath stone archways and sunlit corridors. The two of them hand in hand, surrounded by history were simply radiant.

We made our way to the Bridge of Sighs, another Oxford icon, where their joy and laughter filled the quiet of the afternoon.

Punting and Dinner at the Cherwell Boathouse

To celebrate, they planned a dinner at the charming Cherwell Boathouse, a riverside gem tucked away just outside the city centre. Before their meal, they were treated to a surprise punting ride with the wonderful Graham, one of the friendly faces at the Boathouse. It was the perfect ending to a day full of intention, intimacy, and adventure.

The next day, they boarded a flight for a romantic honeymoon through Italy and Croatia, a perfect continuation of their unforgettable Oxfordshire elopement.

Thinking of Eloping in Oxford?

If you’re dreaming of a quiet, meaningful way to say your vows, a Duke Humphrey’s Library wedding or Oxford elopement might be exactly what you’ve been looking for. With its mix of history, beauty, and romance, Oxford offers one of the most poetic backdrops for your love story.

Whether it’s just the two of you or a handful of your nearest and dearest, your day can be whatever you want it to be, and I’d be honoured to capture every moment.

If you’re planning your own Oxfordshire elopement. I’d love to hear your story, get in touch!

Rachel and Dushyant’s wedding was a beautiful celebration of love, culture, and family that blended Indian and Western traditions in the most thoughtful way. Travelling from California, they chose the Firehouse Oxford for their Oxfordshire wedding. It was a perfect spot to host their two-day celebration, surrounded by countryside views and the people closest to them.

With just 40 guests, made up of close family and dear friends who had travelled from both the USA and India, the entire weekend felt personal and intentionally intimate. The newly added marquee tent at Firehouse (formerly The Evenlode) created a relaxed, garden atmosphere that perfectly matched their vision.

The Firehouse’s newly unveiled tipi tent was a dreamy setting for the festivities, giving the weekend a relaxed, home garden feel that the couple envisioned from the very beginning. With most of their guests staying on site in the hotel rooms, it felt like one big, joyful house party with a global guest list.

Day One: A Western Ceremony with English Charm

The first day featured a Western ceremony that was deeply personal and joyfully unconventional. The couple tied the knot in a hand fasting ritual- a symbolic gesture of unity that felt just right. After the ceremony, guests enjoyed a laid back drinks reception while children played on the swings and the rustic tractor.  The atmosphere was casual, loving, and full of laughter.

Mehendi Magic: Henna, Dancing, and Heartfelt Performances

As the sun dipped lower, the scene shifted to the Mehendi celebration, a vibrant and colorful tradition in Indian weddings. Rachel’s hands and feet were transformed into intricate works of art by the talented Hemmy of Hemmys Beauty. Mehendi parties are a cherished pre-wedding ritual in Indian culture, a time for singing, dancing, and connection as henna is applied to the bride surrounded by loved ones.

What made this Mehendi especially memorable was a surprise dance performance by Rachel’s American family, who had secretly been rehearsing in the lead up to the wedding. It was such a joyful moment, and the energy only built from there as both families joined the dance floor, led by the bride and groom.

Dinner was catered by Tikka and Tadka, who served up generous, flavourful Indian dishes that brought the evening to life.

Day Two: A Beautifully Interwoven Indian Ceremony

The next morning, Rachel rose early to prepare for the Indian ceremony. Draped in a vibrant red sari and surrounded by family as she was adorned in bangles. There was a sense of calm and anticipation as the day began.

The ceremony was conducted by the warm and wise Pandit Shyam Das, whose gentle presence and thoughtful translations made the event deeply inclusive. Every ritual, every sacred vow was translated into English, allowing all guests to understand and connect with the meaning behind each part of the ceremony. It was, without a doubt, one of the most moving Indian wedding ceremonies I’ve had the honour to witness.

A Celebration of Cultures, Connection, and Dance

This was a wedding that didn’t rely on scale or spectacle. Instead, it was defined by the people, the meaning behind each moment, and the time everyone had to enjoy being together. Every detail—from the tipi tent and tractor to the hand fasting and Mehendi—felt intentional and reflective of the couple’s story.

Vendors

• Venue: The Firehouse Oxford (formerly The Evenlode)
• Hair & Makeup: Anna Jones Bridal
• Henna Artist and sari draping: Hemmys Beauty | Instagram
• Catering (Mehendi night): Tikka & Tadka
• Flowers: Flowers by Kris
• Indian Ceremony Officiant: Pandit Shyam Das
• Dress Alterations: Lily Shin

Planning a fusion wedding? I’d love to hear from you. Get in touch to chat about your plans, your story, and all things wedding photography.

Mini shoots are great for anyone who wants professional photos without committing to a full-length session. They’re perfect for:

Couples – A sweet way to capture your love, whether it’s an anniversary or just because.

Families – From tiny toddlers to proud grandparents, a mini shoot is a great way to get beautiful family portraits.

Individuals – Whether you need an updated headshot or just want to feel like a star for a day, this is your moment!

A Few Simple Tips to Make Your Mini Photoshoot Fun and Easy

1. Arrive on Time!

Mini shoots are scheduled every 20 minutes on the hour and half-hour, so if you aren’t on time, you’ll have less photo time. If you’re running late, that time can’t be made up, meaning fewer photos for you. Plan to arrive a little early to get settled, and we’ll dive right in.

2. What to Wear? Keep It Simple & Stylish!

Your outfit can make a big difference in how your photos turn out. Here are some quick tips:

Couples: Coordinate your outfits without being too matchy. Pick colours that complement each other, like neutrals, soft pastels, or deep earthy tones.

Families: Think about how everyone’s outfits work together. A cohesive colour scheme (not identical, just complementary) will help your photos look timeless.

Individuals: I always advise wearing something that’s comfortable, makes you feel confident, and something you’ll be happy to see in years to come.

Avoid loud patterns, logos, or neon colours—they can be distracting in photos.

3. Tips for Families with Little Ones

Bringing kids? Here’s how to keep things smooth:

Schedule wisely. Try to book your session at a time that works around naps and mealtimes. A happy, well-rested child means better photos.

Bring snacks or a small toy. Something simple can work wonders to keep them engaged and smiling.

Relax! Kids might not always “cooperate” perfectly, and that’s totally okay. We’ll capture beautiful moments no matter what.

4. What If It Rains?

The weather can be unpredictable, especially in England. If the forecast calls for heavy rain, don’t stress—we’ll reschedule to another date that works for you. I’ll keep you posted if any changes are needed.

5. What to Expect During Your Shoot

Mini sessions are designed to be fast, fun, and relaxed. We’ll spend about 20 minutes getting a mix of different poses and backdrops so you have plenty of beautiful images to choose from.

Expect a mix of natural, candid moments along with lightly guided poses to make sure you look and feel your best.

6. Keep It Light—Literally!

Try not to bring bulky bags or heavy coats to your session if possible. Since we’ll be moving around, you won’t want to be carrying extra stuff. The less you have to think about, the more fun you’ll have.

7. Getting Your Photos & Downloads

After your shoot, you’ll receive access to a private, password-protected gallery where you can view all your images. Your session includes 5 high-quality digital downloads, but if you love more than five (which you probably will), you’ll have the option to purchase extras directly from your gallery.

Prints and albums can also be ordered straight from your gallery, making it easy to turn your photos into keepsakes.

I aim to have your images uploaded to your private, password-protected online gallery within 1 week of the shoot. You will be able to download 5 images for free. Then you can order prints, albums, or more digital downloads.

Mini Shoot Availability

Mini sessions happen just twice a year—once in spring and once in autumn. These spots go fast, so booking early is a good idea. Check out my families page for the next Mini Shoot Dates.

Locations:

• Central Oxford – A stunning setting filled with historic charm. Your session will take place around some of Oxford’s most iconic landmarks, including the Bodleian Library, Bridge of Sighs, and Radcliffe Camera, creating timeless and elegant backdrops for your photos.
• Local Park – A perfect choice for a laid-back and natural setting. This family-friendly park features lush greenery, plenty of trees, a playground for little ones, and an easy-access café, making it an ideal spot for relaxed and vibrant photos.

Final Thoughts

Mini shoots are all about capturing authentic, joyful moments without the stress of a long session. With a little prep, you’ll feel confident, relaxed, and ready to have fun in front of the camera.

Ready to book or have questions? Just reach out—I can’t wait to help you capture some beautiful memories!

Why Choose an Oxford College for Your Wedding?

There’s something truly extraordinary about hosting your wedding in one of Oxford’s colleges. Each college has its own unique character, from the grand, gothic halls of Christ Church to the intimate courtyards of Worcester College. The tranquil gardens, historic dining halls, and ornate chapels make for breathtaking backdrops at every turn.

For Oxford alumni, getting married in a college is particularly meaningful. Many couples return from all over the world to celebrate their wedding in the place where they first met or studied, adding a deep personal connection to their day. Even if you didn’t attend Oxford, these venues still offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the city’s heritage in an unforgettable way.

The Best Oxford Colleges for Weddings

Over the years, I’ve photographed weddings at nearly all of Oxford’s colleges, each with its own unique charm. Here are some of my personal favourites:

• Christ Church – A show-stopping venue with its grand cathedral and iconic dining hall (yes, the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Great Hall!).
• Magdalen College – Boasting riverside gardens and a stunning cloister, it’s perfect for romantic, scenic photography.
• Exeter College – A hidden gem with a beautiful chapel and picturesque quad. It’s also the best location in Oxford for a photo with Radcliffe Camera in the background
• Worcester College – Ideal for garden lovers, with lush grounds and a serene lake.
• Balliol College – One of the oldest colleges, offering a rich historic atmosphere for an intimate wedding.
• Merton College – Home to one of the oldest libraries in Europe and beautiful medieval architecture.
• New College – A breathtaking venue with stunning medieval cloisters, a tranquil garden, and an impressive chapel, perfect for a timeless and elegant wedding.
• Lincoln College – A charming and intimate venue, with its ivy-clad quad providing a stunning backdrop for wedding photos, along with a beautiful chapel and historic ambiance.

Can Non-Alumni Get Married in an Oxford College?

While many Oxford colleges prioritise alumni for weddings, there are several that welcome non-alumni couples to celebrate their special day. St Hilda’s College, St Edmund Hall (Teddy Hall), and Green Templeton College all allow non-alumni to host their weddings, providing stunning historic settings with beautiful gardens and elegant halls. Additionally, venues like the Bodleian Library, Rhodes House and the Oxford Union offer magnificent alternatives within Oxford’s rich architectural landscape. If you’re dreaming of an Oxford college wedding but aren’t an alum, these venues offer an incredible opportunity to experience the charm and prestige of the university.

The Best Spots for Wedding Photos in Oxford

One of the biggest advantages of having an Oxford wedding is the abundance of stunning locations for wedding portraits. Over the years, I’ve scouted all the best spots, ensuring that couples get the most beautiful and timeless images of their day. Some of my go-to locations include:

• Radcliffe Camera & Bodleian Library – Classic Oxford backdrops for that iconic shot.
• Bridge of Sighs – A romantic spot for couples’ portraits.
• Christ Church Meadow – Perfect for dreamy, natural photos by the river.
• The Covered Market – For a fun, more relaxed feel in a unique setting.
• University Parks – A peaceful green space ideal for capturing intimate moments away from the crowds.

Head over to the blog to read more about my favourite Oxford photo spots.

Why Work with a Photographer Who Knows Oxford?

With 14 years of experience photographing weddings in Oxford, I know the ins and outs of each college, the best hidden corners for portraits, and how to navigate the city’s quirks (like avoiding tourist crowds!). My deep familiarity with Oxford’s venues allows me to create a seamless and stress-free experience for my couples, ensuring that every moment is captured beautifully.

If you’re planning an Oxford college wedding and want a photographer who truly understands the charm of the city, I’d love to chat! Get in touch to discuss how we can make your wedding photos as timeless and breathtaking as your love story.

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

I can completely understand people’s concerns. You’ve spent months, years even, planning your wedding day and the thought of it being a washout is awful. But, we’re in the UK. Regardless of the season there is never a guarantee that your day will be rain free. It rains 150 days a year in the UK on average. So, however much thought we put into things, we have absolutely no control over the weather. What we can plan for though is how we deal with downpours and rain. I’ve photographed weddings in rain, blazing sunshine, snow and gale force winds. So I like to think that I can handle pretty much anything the British climate throws my way! 

I always stress to couples that, if they can, they need to put their worries about the rain to one side. I come prepared and I’ll always have a “rainy day” plan. You will still get amazing wedding photographs. I know it’s not easy to just let worries go though, so here are my top tips for dealing with rain on your wedding day. 

Be Flexible

This is key. It is very rare that it will rain non stop all day. Whenever I’ve photographed a rainy wedding day there have always been short periods of time where the rain has stopped and we’ve been able to get outside. Even if it’s just for a couple of minutes. As long as you’re happy for me to come and get you both as soon as I spot a break in the weather then we can dash out and capture some amazing photographs! 

I am happy to step outside and take pictures in drizzle or light rain. If there is somewhere outside, but undercover, at your venue. An archway for example, then I can set up family groups and keep you all dry even if I am standing out in the rain. If the rain gets a little heavier then I have also been known to enlist a guest or member of the wedding party to hold an umbrella over me. Just to keep my equipment dry! 

Be Prepared

Even if the forecast is for it to be dry all day it’s always worth being prepared for wet weather. Just in case! If you don’t want your wedding shoes to get wet or muddy then have a pair of  wellies to hand, some boots or cool yet comfy trainers! Even if the weather is lovely you might want to pop your trainers on for a bit anyway, save you walking too far in heels or fancy footwear!  

I always recommend buying some clear umbrellas for the day too. Or you could buy umbrellas that go with your wedding day theme, I love these rainbow ones that Chris and Georgie had on their day! 

Try and avoid darker coloured umbrellas though, they can cast shadows on faces. 

Have a Plan B

If possible it’s worth having a Plan B, an indoor space at your ceremony or reception venue that we can use for portraits and / or family group photographs. If this area has large windows and lots of natural light then we’re onto a winner! 

Talk ToMe

You can contact me at any time to chat about your plans for the day and if you have any worries please let me know. I can pretty much guarantee that I’ll have dealt with something similar so can reassure you! We can talk about the weather, contingency plans, how we can make best use of your venue if we need to stay indoors…anything you like! 

Feel Lucky! 

Rain is commonly believed to purify and nourish everything it touches. With that in mind, rain on a wedding day is seen as a very good omen for the marriage. 

In the UK and many other cultures it’s said that “a wet knot never unties”, making the union secure and long lasting. In Italy it is believed that rain symbolises fertility and cleansing as well as an abundance of love. 

I hope these tips have put your mind at ease. The most important thing though is to not let rain, or any kind of weather, spoil your day. Smile, trust in your suppliers and know that whatever happens you and your guests will still have an amazing time! As an added bonus, on a wet wedding day there can be some amazing atmospheric conditions and incredible light. Which makes me a very happy photographer!

If you’re looking for a wedding photographer that has many years of shooting weddings in English rain, get in touch!

99% of the couples I chat to tell me how much they dislike having their picture taken, or how they think they are awful at posing. They don’t feel comfortable and I completely understand it. It’s a bizarre thing to have a camera pointed at you, it’s not something that we are used to in our day to day lives. Most people haven’t experienced being in front of a camera with a professional photographer. 

Whilst I spend the majority of a wedding day taking natural, candid photographs I do always spend time with the couple, taking some portraits of the two of them. It’s the perfect opportunity for the newlyweds to spend some time together away from the hustle and bustle of the wedding reception whilst I get some relaxed pictures. 

Now, the key phrase above is ‘relaxed photos’. I always want that portrait time to be very laid back, natural and fun. We’ll chat our way through it, there’ll be lots of smiles and you’ll both be so caught up in your wedding bubble that you’ll revel in that time alone together. The tension and nerves that you’ve had in the lead up to the day have all gone and you’ve had the most formal part of the wedding – your ceremony. 

I don’t overly pose couples. I want to see how you are together and I will give subtle directions so you don’t feel awkward. I let your natural chemistry shine through. Some couples are very touchy feely whilst others have more subtle displays of affection. If you are nervous then I have some prompts that will make you both smile and relax. I pride myself on being laid back and easygoing myself which I find always helps couples feel comfortable around me. 

With all of the above in mind, here are my top tips for helping you to relax on your wedding day and get rid of those nerves around posing. 

1 – Book a photographer that you are comfortable with. You spend so much time with your wedding photographer that it’s really important you can relax around them. Ideally you want to work with someone friendly and who puts you at ease. 

2 – Think about booking a pre-wedding photoshoot. Whilst the thought of an additional photo session might seem daunting it’s actually one of the best things you can do to settle your nerves. It’s a good chance to meet your photographer and experience being on the other side of their lens. You can also see which poses you feel more relaxed and ‘yourselves’ in. 

3 – Don’t overthink ‘posing’. Stiff poses will always look awkward. Relax, be yourselves and (if needed) your photographer will gently guide you into some more laid back and natural looking poses. Subtle direction and just slightly changing things up can make a world of difference. 

4 – Be yourselves! Don’t try to replicate poses you’ve seen before. Forcing things will always look and feel unnatural. Chat away to each other, laugh together and your love will shine through in the photographs. 

5 – Trust your photographer. You’ve chosen them because you love their work and you feel comfortable around them. They want you both to love your photographs and definitely don’t want you to feel awkward or embarrassed by anything. Know that your portrait session is a small part of your wedding day, embrace the fact that you get to spend time together and enjoy the moment. 

Finally, take a look through the photos I’ve included in this blog post, my portfolio and my Google reviews. Most of these couples confided in me about hating having their photographs taken but they all came back to me afterwards to say how relaxed they had felt in front of my camera and that they ended up really enjoying that quiet time together on their wedding.

Would you like some more wedding photography tips and advice? Check out my blog.

I am a very proud adopted Oxonian. I’ve lived in the city since 2008 and have been photographing weddings in Oxford for the last 13 years, so I know the place like the back of my hand. 

Many of my couples hire me because of this vast local knowledge. I often become their unofficial ‘tour guide’ for the day and knowing the city as well as I do means I am aware of all the shortcuts and hidden spots. Whether I’m shooting portraits, wedding photographs or a pre-wedding photoshoot I work with couples to find the perfect locations for them. 

Now, for the first time I’ve decided to share my secrets! This blog details all my favourite spots around Oxford. What’s more, many of the locations in this post are very close to one another. If you have limited time for portraits on your wedding day this means that we can still get to a number of places. The first three spots I talk about – The Bodleian Library, the Bridge of Sighs and Radcliffe Camera are all in the same location so we can get photographs at all three in about 15 minutes! 

The Bodleian Library 

• This is a great backdrop for amazing portraits. There are several locations, all within the grounds, which I love to shoot at. One of these locations in particular has the best light. 
• The entrance to the Library has a gorgeous wooden door, which is a favourite of mine for pictures.
• In December there is a Christmas tree in the quad, perfect for some winter romance! 
• Top tip – call in advance if you want to go inside the Bod and take photos in the Divinity School (it has the most amazing ceiling). You need permission for this. Unfortunately a lot of the interior is off limits, even to couples getting married there. 

The Bridge of Sighs and Radcliffe Camera

• Two very well known Oxford locations, so they’re a must visit for a lot of couples. 
• It can get crowded in front of the bridge, tourists often gather there to take photographs. I love posing couples on the steps opposite, making sure that the Bridge is still in view. 
• The Radcliffe Camera is an iconic Oxford landmark. The beautiful, circular building is a perfect backdrop but don’t get too close as it can overwhelm the couple within the photo.

The Side Streets

The side streets around the Bodleian, Radcliffe and Bridge of Sighs are also brilliant spots for photographs. Some of my go to’s are Hollywell Street which has stunning, pastel coloured buildings, Broad Street, Turl Street (with views of Lincoln College) and Queens Lane with its high stone walls. 

In fact, lots of the backstreets of Oxford are beautiful and have a real urban vibe. Some other favourites are Gloucester Street and the area around the High Street. Checkout this blog post for more photos of the oxford back streets.

And some more of my favourites…

If you’ve still got time, or you want a bit of greenery in your photographs, then it’s always worth exploring these locations. 

Oxford Register Office

If you’re holding your ceremony at the Register Office then there’s a beautiful spot on the canal, underneath a weeping willow. If there’s time I always try to take the couple there for portraits, or even walk over with the whole family for some group photographs. Check out this blog post at the Oxford Registry Office.

The University Parks 

The Parks are about a ten minute walk from the city centre. The 70 acres are filled with gorgeous flowers in the spring and summer. It’s a great spot if you want some greenery and colour  in your photographs. 

Oxford Botanic Gardens 

One of the most divine spaces in spring. Home to over 5000 types of plants from all over the world I could wander around here for hours on end. The walled garden is one of the places I head to if I need a bit of calm or headspace! There is an entrance fee and you do need permission to photograph couples here but it’s well worth it. 

Christchurch Meadow

This is a huge, tranquil riverside spot. There’s a garden space just as you enter which is also especially beautiful in the springtime. The river is a bit of a walk away but the view from there is lovely. 

Rent a punt! 

If you’re having a pre-wedding or couples portraits shoot and you want to have a bit of fun, then I encourage my couples to hire a punt. I highly recommend it! 

You can rent one at Magdalen Bridge Boathouse and then head towards Christchurch Meadow. I always meet my couples at this point. The Cherwell River runs through the meadow and it’s easy to get fab photographs of you both enjoying the punt. Alternatively, you can punt from the Cherwell Boathouse. For more punting inspiration, check out this blog post.

And finally…

For a splash of colour make sure you visit the Ashmolean Museum door. It’s huge and blue so it looks great in pictures! Don’t visit during the day though, as they only close the doors once the museum shuts at 5pm. 

If you’re looking for even more colour in your photos then you can’t beat the Rainbow pedestrian crosswalk, just opposite Oxford’s main library. I often get LGTBQ+ couples asking me to take them there. It’s a fab photo opportunity. 

I’ll end with a quick note about the colleges. Most of Oxford’s colleges won’t let you inside unless you have prior permission and an affiliation with the college. If you are able to get inside then many of the colleges have beautiful grounds which are lovely to explore and take photos in. 

Having said that though, I have had couples – in wedding attire – ask porters if they can nip in for a photo or two. The answer is often yes, after all, who can say no to a couple who have just got married!

If you’d like to see more Oxford weddings, head over to my blog. If you’re looking for the perfect place to get ready on the morning of your Oxford wedding, check out my top hotel picks in Oxford.

Often, when I’m shooting weddings, I’ll let my imagination go wild and dream about what kind of day I would have if I were to get married again…I see a lot of weddings and my brain is always filled with inspiration!

I just love the idea of a very laid back, bohemian, festival style wedding. Actually, I tell a lie. The ultimate dream would be to run off to somewhere hot and exotic. Think Morocco, or India. A secluded beach…But if I was to get married in the UK  then a bohemian, festival inspired wedding would be the one. Boho weddings are just my favourite to photograph. I imagine my guests camping out onsite with us, open fires and toasted marshmallows as the sun sets and canoe rides down a winding river. Oh, I can picture it now!

Laid Back, Bohemian Inspired Weddings

The bohemian vibes take me back to my days living in India and the time I spent travelling the world. The sense of freedom, the beautiful colours, the atmosphere…

There are so many reasons why I love photographing boho weddings, here are just a few of them.

The Styling

If you’re not too sure what I mean by ‘bohemian style’ then think unconventional! Boho weddings for couples looking for an alternative to the more traditional, and that goes for wedding attire as well! Imagine long, flowing bridal dresses. Beautiful lace yet stunningly simple. And for grooms, I just adore the look of chinos and a white shirt or a mismatched tweed suit. Forget all about formal black tie or a tail coat!

And as for your wedding decor, well the world is your oyster. I love creative and quirky styling. Wild flowers, greenery, wood – all the colours of nature!

The Venues

The gorgeous venue featured on this blog post is The Oxford Yurt, sadly they don’t cater for weddings (but can be hired for a hen do!) However it’s great inspiration for a lovely bohemian venue. Surrounded by fields, non traditional. It ticks all the boxes! I love it when weddings take place in rustic barns, on beaches or in woodland. Why not stage your very own wedding festival?!

And I saved the most important one until last…

The Likeminded Couples

Yes, that does mean you lovely blog reader! My couples often remind me of myself, creative, offbeat and just a touch rebellious. They love weddings for the same reason that I do – because they’re celebrations of love and togetherness.

I love it when a couple really bring their personality into their plans. If you’re looking for inspiration on just how to put your own stamp on your day then feast your eyes on Laura and Jonathan’s day. They hosted an absolutely incredible and creative safari themed wedding. My words won’t do it justice, you just have to take a look at the photographs!

Secondly, for a couple who really stamped their personality on their day then look no further than Cat and Alistair. I can safely say that Cat is the only bride who has ever showed off her climbing skills in her wedding dress!

A collaboration

This shoot was put together with some wonderful Oxfordshire independent businesses.

Venue: The Oxford Yurt

Groom’s Attire: Burrows and Hare

Hair and Makeup: Clare Moroney

Cake: Barefoot Bakery

Flowers: Willow and Fern Oxford

Models: Ale Manning

Elise Tassell

Toby Mcafee

Dresses: Maudika Bridal

Luckily the barn at Dovecote Events gave us some much needed shelter from the burning sun and everyone gathered under the shade of a huge tree for their family group photos. I have to say though, yes, we were all feeling the heat, but there is a real “Brit spirit” when it comes to extreme weather at weddings. Everyone comes together and just gets on with things. Whatever the weather – rain or (extreme!) sunshine – there’s always a great atmosphere.

Weddings at Dovecote Events

Part of the wonderfully named, family run Bo Peep Farm, Dovecote boasts incredible views over the Oxfordshire countryside and was the perfect setting for Audrey and Simon’s laidback day. I absolutely loved the festival vibe they’d created and the amazing weather just added to the feeling. 

The Grade II listed barn has been carefully restored with a huge arched ceiling and oak beams. Audrey and Simon’s ceremony was a really beautiful coming together of two families. I love that Audrey’s proud sons walked her down the aisle, along with her adorable flower girl. 

Festival style wedding in a tipi 

Following the ceremony everyone spilled outside into the sunshine to enjoy a glass (or two!) of Pimms. 

As their guests chatted and laughed together in the welcome shade of the huge tipi, Audrey, Simon and I gathered their family together (underneath the canopy of that big old tree) for some informal formals. They are such a close knit bunch and loved messing around together in front of my camera. There was a lot of cheering, whooping and jumping around. I don’t know how they managed it in the heat but the energy was fab!

Audrey and Simon really stamped their personalities on the day. They both love music and I thought their table decorations, made from old records, were fab. So unique! They named their tables after their favourite music festivals (they were sat on Glastonbury of course) and their whole day was based around a music festival. There were hay bales dotted around for guests to sit on, a fire pit and live music throughout. My favourite touch was the “Wedfest” wristbands that guests were given, such a great detail! The tipi was adorned with colourful streamers and origami paper cranes that they’d spent hours making. The tables looked amazing with beautiful wildflowers by Howe Farm Flowers and I have to give a mention to Audrey, who not only spent time planning the wedding, making the paper cranes and doing anything and everything to make the day perfect…but somehow she also found time to make the wedding cake too! So talented! 

Dovecote Events wedding photographer

As evening fell Audrey and Simon’s guests went outside to enjoy some lawn games. Things got rather competitive which was a lot of fun to watch! 

The three of us (plus their fab videographer, Harry Jaggard) took advantage of the stunning golden hour light to get some portraits. A big advantage of long sunny days is that beautiful evening sun. We went for a stroll around the fields, took in those incredible views and Audrey and Simon loved spending a bit of time together ahead of the party. 

And what a party it was! After a fab first dance – which ended with Simon picking Audrey up and swinging her around the dancefloor – their guests quickly joined them and the celebrations continued long into the night. Amazing! 

I had so much fun at Audrey and Simon’s festival style wedding. If you’re getting married at Dovecote Events and are looking for a wedding photographer then I would love to hear from you! 

Photographer: Rachel Movitz Photography

Venue: Dovecote Events

Flowers: Howe Farm Flowers

Music Ear Candy Oxford

Mountford

Videographer: Harry Jaggard