Norland Moor, West Yorkshire, Pre-Wedding Photography – Jess & Mark

I had a great time with Jess and Mark for their pre-wedding photoshoot, with just 3 weeks to go until their wedding it was nice to just enjoy the evening with absolute no wedding stress. Jess was so excited for the big day.

Norland Moor, West Yorkshire

We chose to head to Norland Moor in Halifax, West Yorkshire for when the sun was setting. You’ve probably seen the famous picture with the heather and the rock, so it made a perfect setting. AND THE SUN WAS OUT (kind of), although a bit windy and chilly. Jess was worried I’d get hypothermia (because I’d left my coat at home) and ordered me to stick my car heater on full once we’d finished the photoshoot. They brought along their dog Lady, a springer, who had so much energy she didn’t stop once throughout the engagement photoshoot. This was her 4th big walk too! Pretty sure she knicked my lucozade from the car.

Turning a pre-wedding into a family photoshoot

Norland Moor is where they regularly take Lady for a walk so the place meant quite a bit to them and they knew it well, which was good because I had no idea where to go. I would of got us lost if I was deciding where to go. Bringing Lady along was great, it meant Jess and Mark could get some great family photos with Lady, which they normally wouldn’t get and that’s what I love about pre-wedding shoots. It’s not just about the couple getting used to how I work or being in front of the camera (although that is the main reason), but also to take the opportunity to get some great family shots. It’s why I’ll always allow kids and pets along.

From documentary photography to fine art photography

As the sun started to set, I took the chance to get some really nice posed shots. Even though my style is documentary and candid, I find I can’t be too documentary at a engagement photoshoot and instead step into the fine art photography area. Still keeping things nice and relaxed I set up my off camera flash to grab that setting sun with Jess and Mark. I didn’t even need to position them too much, they were naturals and super cute together. I can’t wait for their wedding at Tower House Hotel now.