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Bridal Party Photos at Shaw House in Newbury

Cat Brant
Jan 13
3 min read

Updated: Feb 19

It’s no secret that I love bridal party photos! They’re the perfect opportunity to loosen up, have a bit of fun, and capture all those beautiful connections and personalities that make your wedding day so special. The best part? The options for these photos are endless. Whether it’s classic, elegant group shots or something a little more playful, this is where we can really let personalities shine.

These were taken at Shaw House in Newbury, a stunning backdrop that provided the perfect setting for these fun, natural moments.

Wedding party posing joyfully in a garden. Bride in white, others in beige and gray, holding flowers. Lush greenery in the background.

Bridal Party Photos at Shaw House in Just 5 Minutes? Absolutely!

I always work with the ethos that wedding photography should enhance your day, not take over it. That’s why I keep bridal party sessions short and snappy—usually under five minutes. You’d be amazed at how much we can achieve in such a short time! With the right prompts, we can create a mix of natural, energetic, and beautifully composed images without anyone feeling like they’re stuck in a never-ending photoshoot.

Why This Spot?

Choosing the right location is all about balancing lighting, space, and movement. On this particular day, the sun was shining brightly and I needed to choose a spot that allowed:

✔ No harsh shadows on faces

✔ No squinting! (A wedding photo essential!)

✔ Even, flattering light that made everyone look their best

The sun in this spot is positioned at a 45-degree angle behind the group to the left.

The space I chose gave us the freedom to move around with some of the bridal party in heels, which is a must for capturing more natural, dynamic shots.

Ideally, I’d have picked a spot with a softer, more aesthetically pleasing ground (rather than concrete), but after scouting the area, this was still the best choice—because when it comes to photography, good light always wins over location.

There would have also been a lovely spot in front of the building but another bride was exiting the building at this time so I didn't want to get in her way. Location choosing for shots is actually a big part of being a wedding photographer because even if you've been to a venue before different variables can throw curve balls at you- and you need to be able to think on your feet.

The Before & After

This is how the group stood naturally before I stepped in—OK, but a little disjointed, flat, and missing that spark. With just a few quick tweaks, a bit of energy, and the right direction, we transformed it into something much more engaging and full of life.

Wedding party stands outdoors under large trees. Bride in white holds flowers, bridesmaids in gold dresses. Groomsmen in suits, smiling.

First directed shot at Shaw House

Ok so bumper to bumper- it's static but less disjointed. I do like it as a shot though because you can see everyone's face, something that isn't always possible when prompted with actions.

Wedding party poses outdoors under a tree. Bride in white gown, others in formal wear, smiling with bouquets. Sunlight filters through leaves.

Next- 'Link up, and let's get you walking towards me.'

Then as people are walking I get them to look at each other and back at me.

I ask people to look at each other because it fosters laughs and smiles in a way that looking down a lens doesn't. I will take the photo of people looking at each other and back at me but the action shot is always my favourite- bigger emotions always make for better images in my opinion.

Wedding party smiling, walking arm-in-arm outdoors. Bridesmaids in gold dresses, groomsmen in suits, trees in background, cheerful mood.

And of course, a shot walking away too, sometimes people will look back which is also fun.

Wedding party in elegant attire walking outdoors. Bride in white lace dress holds bouquet. Lush greenery and historic building in background.

Next we get the bride and groom to stand and everyone else to rush inwards to crowd them, it's fun and we end with a little pose.

Bride and groom smiling, walking with joyful wedding party in elegant dresses and suits, set against a lush green park background.

Getting Married at Shaw House?

If you’re looking for a wedding venue with serious character, Shaw House in Newbury is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s a gorgeous Elizabethan mansion with stunning brickwork, big windows, and loads of history, but it still feels warm and inviting rather than overly grand. The gardens are beautiful all year round plus, as a photographer, I love how much variety it offers—whether you want elegant portraits against the historic architecture or relaxed, natural shots on the lawns, there’s no shortage of beautiful backdrops.

One of the best things about Shaw House is that it doesn’t feel like your typical registry office—it’s got that intimate, tucked-away charm while still being full of character. The light here is chef’s kiss—soft, flattering, and perfect for photos, especially in the late afternoon. Whether you’re planning a big celebration or something smaller and more personal, this place just works. It’s elegant but not stuffy and historic but not too formal.

Want to see more of this wedding at Shaw House? Check out Suzi & Pa's wedding here!

Natural Wedding Photography at Shaw House

If you love natural, relaxed wedding photos that capture all the real moments, I’d love to hear from you! Let’s chat about your day—get in touch

Get in touch

Comments

hi! I'm cat and i am a full time wedding photographer

(and a little bit of a photography geek!)

I started taking photos as a teenager, my Dad was a wedding photographer and I would often help him. In 2021 I left my corporate job with a dream and hope that I could make photography a full time job. Since then I have been pouring my heart and soul into this business and have been honoured to be chosen as wedding photographer for so many lovely couples as well as being a portrait and event photographer.

I TAKE CLASSIC, TIMELESS, DOCUMENTARY STYLE PHOTOGRAPHS WITH MINIMAL INTRUSION

But I will step in and offer gentle guidance when it's right to do so, I have learned over the years to read the room, anticipate the next move, hold space when needed and offer support when I can.

aRE YOU LOOKING FOR A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER?

When choosing a wedding photographer, consider their style, experience, portfolio, and reviews from previous clients. It's also important to discuss pricing, availability, and any specific requests you may have.

Don't forget to meet with them in person to ensure you have good chemistry and feel comfortable with their approach.

Once you have narrowed down your list of potential wedding photographers, it's a good idea to ask them some key questions to help you make your final decision.

Here are a few questions to consider:

What is your photography style? Do you prefer a more traditional approach or a more candid, documentary style?
Do you have experience with weddings of a similar size and style to mine?
Can I see a full gallery of a recent wedding you photographed? This will give you a better sense of their consistency and quality of work.
Do you have backup equipment in case something goes wrong on the day of the wedding?
How do you handle difficult lighting situations (e.g. low light, harsh sunlight, indoor vs. outdoor)? This will help you gauge their technical expertise.
What is included in your packages? Are there any additional fees I should be aware of (e.g. travel, overtime)?
How long will it take to receive my photos after the wedding? Will they be edited and retouched?
Can you accommodate any special requests I have (e.g. specific shots, family portraits)?
How do you ensure that you capture all of the important moments on the day of the wedding?

By asking these questions and having an open and honest conversation with your wedding photographer, you can ensure that you find the right fit for your big day.