Newlyweds embrace under a weeping willow beside canal boats after their summer wedding in London

HACKNEY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

Laughing mature bride in front of a bright yellow wall
 
£
 

East London Wedding Photography for Creative Couples

Documentary wedding photography that feels real, not staged

 

Finally, someone who gets it.

You’re tired of wedding photographers who assume you want to be a princess for a day. You don’t want "magical fairytale moments" - what you want is photos that show who you really are together.

I'm Emma, and since 2014 I've been documenting weddings across East London - from Hackney to Shoreditch, Bethnal Green to Islington - for couples who see through the wedding industry noise. Couples like you, who are much more interested in authentic moments than perfect poses.

My documentary wedding photography style is all about creating photos that look and feel natural, candid and unposed.

The moments that matter most are usually happening between the big moments

Documenting what true partnership feels like

I capture how you actually interact - the way you make each other laugh, how you navigate decisions together, the quiet moments that show you're genuine collaborators in life.

Real reactions, not performed ones

The gentle squeeze of hands when the emotions start to well up, the shared glance that says, 'We chose exactly the right people to celebrate with.' The moments when you're just being... you.

It’s your celebration, not a photo shoot

Quick family shots so your mum's happy, a few gorgeous portraits of just you two, then back to what matters most - actually being present at your own wedding.

 
 
Two grooms wearing sunglasses relax on their wedding day
 
 
 

East London wedding photography

Whether your venue is traditional or totally unconventional, I'm in my element here - this is my patch.

I've shot weddings in grand town halls, converted warehouses and everything in-between. Creative spaces are something East London is not short of and I can't wait to hear about the spot you've chosen.

After 10+ years shooting in East London, I know how to make the most of any space - from maximising natural light in industrial venues to capturing intimate moments in grand civic buildings.

 

INVESTMENT

 

Wedding photography investment ranges from £450 to £1950

Every couple’s needs are different, and I’d rather have a proper conversation about what matters to you than assume you want the same package as everyone else.

 
 

“You can tell from the photos that she has huge passion for her work. Her attention to detail and love of her job shines through in the final gallery. I highly, highly recommend!”

 
 
Two women, one pregnant, holding her belly, smiling and looking at each other outdoors amidst greenery.

FAQ

  • Complete gallery in about 5 weeks, with a sneak peek within the first week because I know you'll be dying to see them!

  • Most people feel this way - you're definitely not alone! I've worked with everyone from natural performers to people who freeze at the sight of a camera. My gentle approach means we'll find what works for you and I promise there's no pressure to be anything other than yourselves.

  • God, no. But I will give you gentle direction, so you look amazing without feeling awkward (and always know what to do with that spare hand).

  • Natural documentary wedding photography that captures authentic moments as they happen. I work unobtrusively to document how your day actually feels, with gentle guidance when we work together for portraits.

  • Absolutely! Though I might charge petrol money if you're getting married somewhere that requires an overnight stay.

  • A black-and-white photo of two people in suits sharing a kiss in front of a large illuminated number 2 on a textured wall. There is an emergency exit sign with an arrow on the left and a coat hanger symbol on the right.

    “We are sincerely grateful for your amazing work. From start to finish, every step was perfect, resulting in truly wonderful photography!”

    Ruta & Stas

  • A couple sitting on a wooden bench in front of an old brick building with blue double doors and a large window above. The woman is holding a bouquet of colorful flowers, and both are dressed in formal attire, smiling at the camera. Bicycles and pigeons are visible nearby.

    "Wonderful wonderful wonderful! Thank you so much! You really captured the day and quite a bit we didn’t even notice! Very highly recommended."

    Charlie & Tony

  • Newlywed husbands smiling at each other

    "From the initial enquiry, right through to the special moment the album was shared. Emma could not have been more helpful, friendly and professional."

    Dom & Garvie

  • A black and white photo of a bride and groom standing close together on a staircase, smiling and looking into each other's eyes. The bride holds a bouquet of flowers, and the groom has his hands in his pockets.

    "Kind, thoughtful and caring - Emma did a wonderful job. The photos were stunning - highly recommend."

    Natasha & Chris

About Emma

East London wedding photographer since 2014. Mum to a brilliant 3-year-old (who confirms that I’m “the best photographer in the whole world”, so it must be true.)

With two dads and a mum, we’re living proof that families come in all wonderful shapes 🌈

And on that note, be assured that everyone is welcome here - all couples, all love stories, all celebrations. (Basic human decency required - genocide deniers need not apply.)

FOLLOW ME HERE: @taketheheart

A woman with short white hair, wearing a turquoise blouse and black pants, sitting on outdoor steps, smiling, with a metal railing and white brick wall in the background.

LET’S HAVE A CHAT OVER A (VIRTUAL) CUPPA

I take on a limited number weddings each year, which allows me to give a truly personalised service.

Currently booking for 2025 & 2026

Want to see if we're aligned? Pop your details in the form below - I'll send you my full pricing and an invitation to book a call so we can chat about your plans.

Not a fan of forms? Email me: emma@taketheheart.com