I’ve been a wedding photographer for over 10 years, and I’ve seen a lot of weddings. But Bhargavi and Alex’ wedding was one of the most unique and memorable weddings I’ve ever photographed.
The wedding was a fusion of Indian Hindu and English cultures, but not only that, Bhargavi and Alex managed to bring in some of their own unique touches to the day, including the use of their own VW campervan. The civil ceremony took place in the morning at Tatton Wedding Barn at Stock Farm in Knutsford, England. I’m not sure if it’s called Tatton wedding barn or Stock Farm Barn or both but it’s a farm near Tatton Park. I’m not sure if it’s in Tatton (parliamentary constituency) or not. I don’t even think it’s in Knutsford. It’s actually in a place called Ashley, which is apparently in Altrincham. The barn is a beautiful venue, with plenty of outdoor space and a rustic charm. The ceremony was simple and elegant, with Bhargavi and Alex exchanging vows in front of their closest friends and family. The Hindu wedding ceremony followed in the afternoon.
A Hindu Wedding at Tatton Weddings / Stock Farm
Hindu weddings are very spiritual and beautiful occasions with plenty of symbolism. It’s about love, the joining of two people, and the coming together of two families. I’ve had the honour of photographing many Hindu weddings over the years and each one has been slightly different.
Just to give you an idea of what goes on and what it means, here are a few of the key events that take place in a traditional Hindu wedding ceremony:
- Kanyadaan: The bride’s father gives her away to the groom. This is a symbolic gesture, as the bride is not actually being sold.
- Panigrahana: The groom takes the bride’s hand in his. This is a sign of their union and commitment to each other.
- Vivaah Homa: A fire is lit, and the bride and groom walk around it seven times. This is a sacred ritual that symbolizes their vows to each other.
- Laja Homa: The bride and groom offer rice and other grains to the fire. This is a prayer for a prosperous and fruitful marriage.
- Saptapadi: The bride and groom take seven steps together, reciting vows with each step. This is the most important ritual in a Hindu wedding, as it seals the marriage contract.
- Mangalsutra: The groom ties a mangalsutra around the bride’s neck. This is a sacred thread that symbolizes their married status.
- Haldi: The bride and groom are rubbed with a turmeric paste. This is a cleansing ritual that is believed to ward off evil spirits.
- Sangeet: This is a pre-wedding celebration that is full of music, dance, and feasting.
The traditional Hindu wedding ceremony is a beautiful and meaningful ritual that celebrates the union of two people. It is a time for family and friends to come together and rejoice in the couple’s love.
Wedding Photography at Tatton Wedding Barn
When choosing a photographer for a barn wedding, it is important to find someone who is familiar with the style of photography you want. Documentary photography is all about capturing the natural moments of the day, so you want someone who is comfortable shooting in a candid and unobtrusive way. You also want to find someone who is passionate about barn weddings and who understands the unique challenges of shooting in a barn. If you also want portraits, make sure your photographer can do these for you without taking you away from the party for long periods of time.
Here are some things to look for when choosing a documentary photographer for a barn wedding:
- Experience shooting in barns. Make sure the photographer has experience shooting in barns and understands the challenges of shooting in low light and with limited space.
- A candid and unobtrusive style. You want a photographer who will capture the natural moments of the day without being intrusive.
- A passion for barn weddings. Find a photographer who is excited about shooting barn weddings and who understands the unique beauty of barn weddings.
With a little research, you can find a documentary photographer who will capture the beauty and magic of your barn wedding. In fact, you don’t even have to look very far, just click the contact button!
Here are some additional tips for choosing a documentary photographer for a barn wedding:
- Look at reviews. Check out Google reviews for the photographers you are looking at.
- Don’t trust venues that recommend photographers, they are often doing this for financial reasons and are not experts in photography.
- Look for photographers who have a portfolio of barn weddings. This will give you a good idea of their style and how they shoot in barns. Ask to see a full wedding and not just portfolio images.
- Talk to potential photographers. This will give you a chance to get to know them and see if they are a good fit for you. You need to know that they are very cool, easygoing, and will fit right in at your wedding.
- Trust your gut. When you find a photographer you feel comfortable with, go with your gut.
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