# LOUMAY > Real Love Adventures for Real Adventurous Lovers ## Posts - [Laura & Gareth’s Rainy Day Elopement at Storrs Hall, Lake Windermere](https://loumay.co.uk/laura-gareths-rainy-day-elopement-at-storrs-hall-lake-windermere/) - [Abbi & Macaully’s Golden Cap Adventure: A Connection Session in the Heart of Dorset](https://loumay.co.uk/connection-session-in-the-heart-of-dorset/) - [Breaking Free from Wedding Traditions...](https://loumay.co.uk/breaking-free-from-wedding-traditions/): Weddings are meant to be a reflection of love, but somewhere along the way, many of us get swept into the idea of tradition—big venues, guest lists, and rigid timelines. What if, instead, your wedding could be a celebration of everything that makes you as a couple special? It’s about stripping away the expectations and embracing a day that feels like the truest expression of who you are—bold, wild, and unapologetically yourselves. Your Wedding, Your Rules Gone are the days where weddings need to fit a specific mold. You don’t have to walk down the aisle or follow a timeline […] - [Feeding your Photographer... The Little Gesture that makes a Big Difference](https://loumay.co.uk/feeding-your-photographer-videographer-the-little-gesture-a-big-difference/): Hey lovely people, while you’re deep in the world of wedding planning, picking out flowers and finalising that perfect playlist, there’s one small detail that often gets overlooked: feeding your photographer (and videographer, if you have one). I know, it might not seem like a big deal, but trust me, it is—both for you and for us! It’s Not About Special Treatment Let’s clear this up straight away: we don’t need to be treated like royalty with a fancy three-course meal. What we do need is a moment to refuel and keep the creative juices flowing. Weddings are long, and […] - [Why speeches before your meal can be a game changer!](https://loumay.co.uk/did-you-say-speeches-before-your-meal-hell-yeah/): Hey lovelies! Let’s chat about something that’s been gaining traction—speeches before the meal. I know it’s not the traditional route, but more couples are choosing this option, and honestly, it makes so much sense. Here’s why… 1. Timing During Drinks After your ceremony, when guests are mingling with drinks in hand and that post-“I do” glow, it’s the perfect time to dive into the speeches. The atmosphere is still buzzing, and the energy is high. Whether outside or in, the setup with everyone gathered around feels intimate and relaxed. Plus, it’s lovely for your photographer to capture all those genuine […] - [Faye & Joe's Epic Dorset Wedding](https://loumay.co.uk/faye-joes-epic-dorset-wedding/) - [Faye & Joe's Connection Session at Lyme Regis](https://loumay.co.uk/faye-joes-connection-session-at-lyme-regis/) - [A Love Story at Yat Rock: Gemma & Lloyd’s Playful Connection Session](https://loumay.co.uk/42050-2/) - [Liam & Stuart’s Sunset Connection Session at Westward Ho!](https://loumay.co.uk/liam-stuarts-sunset-connection-session-at-westward-ho/) - [The Magic Ingredient to getting the Best Wedding Photos](https://loumay.co.uk/the-magic-ingredient-to-getting-the-best-wedding-photos/): Hello lovelies! How’s the wedding planning going? I’d love to hear all about it! As your big day approaches, you might be wondering about a pre-wedding shoot—or as I like to call it, a Connection Session. Maybe you’re thinking, “We don’t love being in front of the camera. Do we really need this extra thing on our wedding checklist?” Before you cross it off, let’s talk about why this session is like sprinkling a little extra magic dust onto your wedding photos! Getting Comfortable with the Camera Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt awkward in front of a camera! […] - [What to Wear for Your Adventure Connection Session](https://loumay.co.uk/what-to-wear-for-your-adventure-connection-session/): So, you’ve got your adventure connection session booked, and now you’re wondering, “What should we wear?” Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. My aim is to make sure you feel confident, comfortable, and fully present for this special time together. Let’s keep it simple and focus on what really matters—you. Comfort Over Everything The key to capturing those natural, beautiful moments is feeling good in what you wear. You want to be free to move, laugh, and just be yourselves without worrying about stiff outfits. Choose something that lets you relax, embrace each other, and focus on enjoying the experience. […] - [My Top Tips for The Best Confetti Photos](https://loumay.co.uk/my-top-tips-for-the-best-confetti-photos/): Hey there, lovelies! Are you ready to add a burst of colour, joy, and magic to your wedding day? We’re talking about those unforgettable confetti moments that make your photos pop and bring all the fun and excitement to life! Confetti is like a sprinkle of happiness that turns even the simplest moments into something extraordinary. So, let’s dive into some tips to make sure your confetti photos are absolutely fantastic! Pick the Perfect Confetti If you can, choose confetti that really stands out in photos. Bio-degradable is always a must, but go for larger rose petals or paper confetti […] - [Elopement Myths Uncovered: Why Eloping Is So Much More Than You Think...](https://loumay.co.uk/elopement-myths/): When you hear the word “elopement,” what comes to mind? A couple secretly running off to get married, or an adventure in a far-off land? There are so many myths about eloping, but I’m here to share what it really means and why it’s such an amazing alternative to a traditional big wedding. Let’s dive in and debunk some of the common myths surrounding elopements! Myth 1: Elopement Means Running Away Secretly Traditionally, elopement was defined as running away to get married in secret. But guess what? That’s not what elopement is anymore! Elopements aren’t about secrecy or being just […] - [Friend with a camera or Pro Photographer...?](https://loumay.co.uk/friend-or-photographer/): You’ve just gotten engaged—congratulations! Now comes the exciting part: planning your dream day. You’re booking your venue, picking out flowers, thinking about the cake, and of course, choosing your photographer. While your cousin Dave, who’s great with his camera at family get-togethers, might offer to step in as your photographer, let’s chat about why hiring a professional is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your wedding. 1. Wedding Photography Is an Art Dave might be great at capturing casual moments at family BBQs, but wedding photography is a whole different game. Professionals bring years of experience, knowing […] - [The Magic of Light in Wedding Photography](https://loumay.co.uk/the-magic-of-light-in-wedding-photography/): Hey lovelies! Let’s talk about one of the biggest factors that can make or break your wedding photos—lighting! Whether it’s bright sunshine, moody clouds, or a magical sunset, how we work with the light is key to capturing those unforgettable moments. So, here’s everything you need to know about how we can plan together to make sure your photos are as dreamy as you imagine! Sunny Days—Not Always What You’d Expect! I know, I know—sunshine on your wedding day sounds like the perfect scenario. But here’s the thing: bright, harsh sunlight can be a bit tricky. It creates strong shadows, […] - [A Guide to Planning your Intimate Wedding or Elopement](https://loumay.co.uk/a-guide-to-planning-your-dream-wedding-or-elopement/): Hey you two! First off, huge congratulations on your engagement! What an exciting time, and I’m so happy for you both! Now, it’s all about figuring out how you want to celebrate your love in a way that feels totally right for you. Whether it’s an elopement, an intimate wedding with your closest, or just the two of you and your kids, here are some ideas to help you plan a day that’s as unique as your love story. 1. Keep It Intimate (Just You, or With a Few Special People) It’s all about what feels true to you as […] - [Should we choose a Registrar or Celebrant?](https://loumay.co.uk/should-we-choose-a-registrar-or-celebrant/): Hey lovelies! As you embark on your wedding planning journey and start scouting for the perfect venue, here’s an important question for you: “Does a Registrar have to officiate our ceremony at a UK licensed venue?” Well, you’ll be happy to know that the answer is a resounding “No!” You actually have a choice! First off, congratulations on your upcoming wedding! It’s such an exciting time, and I’m so happy that you’re exploring all the possibilities available to you. From choosing your venue, flowers, and music to selecting the heart of your day – the ceremony – you get to […] - [How to Get the Best Wedding Photos](https://loumay.co.uk/7-tips-for-getting-the-best-wedding-photographs/): You’ve carefully handpicked all your suppliers, crafted your dream vision, and now it’s time to make sure your photos truly reflect the magic of your day—the love, the joy, the you. But how do you ensure your wedding photos are everything you’ve imagined and more? Here are some fab tips to help you get the best shots that capture the heart of your celebration! Choose a Photographer You Connect With First and foremost, choose a photographer who makes you feel comfortable and at ease. It’s not just about their portfolio—it’s about the connection you have with them. You’ll be spending […] - [Finding Your Perfect Wedding Photographer...](https://loumay.co.uk/tips-for-choosing-your-perfect-photographer/): So… Your big day is just around the corner, and you want every moment to be captured in a way that lets you relive it forever. That’s where your wedding photographer comes in—the one who’ll tell the story of your day, capturing every smile, tear, and magical moment. So, how do you find the photographer who just gets you and your vision? Here are some top tips to help you on your way! Find Your Photography Style First things first, let’s talk style! Every photographer has a unique approach, and finding one whose work resonates with you is key. Do […] - [Epic Travel Inspired Wedding at Watermouth Cove Weddings, Ilfracombe, Devon](https://loumay.co.uk/travel-inspired-wedding-at-watermouth-cove-ilfracombe/) ## Pages - [JUST ENGAGED QUESTIONNAIRE](https://loumay.co.uk/just-engaged-questionnaire/): CONGRATULATIONS!!! Hell Yeah! You got Engaged!!!! First off, HUGE congratulations!! ❤ You’ve probably already started asking yourself, “Where do I even begin?!” Well, you’re in the right place! Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting (and maybe a little overwhelming) journeys, and I’ve put together this little quiz to help you figure out exactly what fits your style, what feels right, and what truly represents you as a couple. Whether you’re dreaming of a big bash or planning an intimate getaway just the two of you. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started… Answer a few quick questions […] - [CUSTOM PRESET DISCOVERY](https://loumay.co.uk/custom-preset-discovery/): CUSTOM PRESET DISCOVERY Start here… Thank you for reaching out about custom preset creation! Editing can sometimes feel frustrating, but I’m here to help make it enjoyable and rewarding. The goal is to help you create a look that brings out the best in your images, and I can’t wait to get started with you. Please fill out this form with as much detail as possible, so I can better understand where you’re at and what you’re aiming for. Grab a brew, take your time, and let’s dive in! Once you’ve filled this out, I’ll be in touch to arrange […] - [YOUR EDITING STYLE](https://loumay.co.uk/your-editing-style/): YOUR EDITING STYLE Tell me about your unique look… Thank you so much for taking the time to fill out this questionnaire. This is designed to help me understand your unique editing style and vision. We’ll dive into the nuances that make your work yours – the way you handle light, tone, colour, and all those little details that define your images. By sharing this insight, you’re giving me the keys to create edits that feel like your own, allowing you to step back from the editing grind while still delivering images that align with your style. The goal is […] - [AVAILABLITY & PRICING](https://loumay.co.uk/pricing/): I’m here to document your day as it unfolds… Real. Raw. Unapologetically YOU. This is for the couples who feel things deeply. Who want their wedding to mean something. Who care less about performing for the camera and more about being fully present – with each other, with the people they love, with the moment as it is. I won’t ask you to perform, pose, or fake a damn thing. I’ll blend in, move gently, and document it all from the inside – the big, wild moments and the quiet in-betweens. The stuff that lingers. The stuff that matters. Give […] - [BRAND REVIEW QUESTIONNAIRE](https://loumay.co.uk/brand-review-questionnaire/): BRAND REVIEW QUESTIONNAIRE Tell me about your business… I’m so excited to help you refine your brand! To give you the best possible feedback, I’d love for you to take a few minutes to answer the following questions. This will help me understand your business, your goals, and the vibe you want to communicate. GET IN TOUCH Ready to get started? I’d love to hear from you. Whether you’ve got questions, want to chat about your project, or would like some more info, give me a shout anytime. Here to help! DON’T LIKE FORMS? POP ME AN EMAIL… CRAFT YOUR […] - [BRAND REVIEWS](https://loumay.co.uk/brand-reviews/): BRAND REVIEWS Your brand is your unique fingerprint… In a world where every photographer is vying for attention, your brand is your unique fingerprint. It’s not just about having a pretty logo; it’s about crafting a cohesive identity that resonates with your ideal clients. If you feel like your brand needs a boost or you’re unsure how to stand out, my brand review sessions are here to guide you. WHAT’S INVOLVED? During our brand review, we’ll take a deep dive into your existing brand identity and its alignment with your vision. This is not a simple checklist; it’s an exploration […] - [1-2-1 MENTORING](https://loumay.co.uk/1-2-1-mentoring/): ONE-TO-ONE MENTORING WHY HAVE A MENTOR? Wedding Photography can feel overwhelming. Starting out in wedding photography can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate this path alone. My 1-2-1 mentoring sessions are designed specifically for those just beginning their journey, providing you with the guidance, support, and tools you need to build a solid foundation for your photography career. I know firsthand how valuable mentorship can be. I had… have a wonderful mentor who helped shape my path and instilled in me the confidence to push through challenges. Now, I’m here to pay it forward… WHY ME? Choosing me […] - [AI PROFILE SETUP](https://loumay.co.uk/ai-profile-setup/): AI PROFILE SETUP & SUPPORT EDITING MARMITE! Like it or not, AI is here to stay…. AI is transforming the editing landscape, and tools like ImagenAI and Aftershoot are leading the charge. These technologies can help streamline your workflow and enhance your post-production process. However, I setting up AI profiles can feel overwhelming, especially amidst a busy season and a massive editing backlog. If you want to get on board but feel unsure about how to get started, I’m here to help! WHY CONSIDER AI FOR YOUR EDITING? AI-driven editing tools can automate repetitive tasks, allowing you to focus more […] - [PRESET CREATION](https://loumay.co.uk/preset-creation/): CUSTOM PRESETS WHY CUSTOM? Editing should be the highlight of your creative process. But it can often feel frustrating when the results don’t match your vision. Many photographers experience this: capturing a perfect shot, importing it into Lightroom, and tweaking endlessly, only to be left unsatisfied. IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT THE PRESET… Secret… It’s not merely about creating and refining custom presets; it’s about understanding all the factors that influence the outcome of your images. From your equipment and settings to the light conditions you’re working with, each element plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect image. Together we’ll […] - [EDITING & RETOUCHING](https://loumay.co.uk/editing-retouching/): RECLAIM YOUR time… WHY OUTSOURCE? Outsourcing your editing isn’t just about saving time – it’s about finding balance. Free yourself to focus on other business aspects, nurture creativity, or simply enjoy quality moments with loved ones. Many hesitate, fearing a loss of style, but I’m here to respect and adapt to your unique aesthetic, seamlessly integrating as part of your team. WHY WORK WITH ME? When you work with me, you gain a dedicated partner, not just an editor. I personally handle each step, from the initial conversation to the final export, ensuring that every edit reflects the heart of […] - [FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS](https://loumay.co.uk/for-photographers/): FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Sometimes, the hardest part of running a business is finding the time to do it all. Getting help with the things that feel overwhelming can restore balance, giving you the space to focus on what truly matters. Running a photography business can be both rewarding and demanding. From editing and managing galleries to preserving your unique style, balancing the creative and administrative sides is no small feat. THAT’S WHERE I COME IN! Offering editing, mentoring, and personalised support designed to streamline your workflow. Whether you’re looking to refine your brand, enhance your editing skills, or create more time […] - [Blog](https://loumay.co.uk/blog/): MORE TALES OF THE WILDLY IN LOVE Let’s CONNECT I believe that building trust and the connection between us is key to capturing your love story authentically. Let’s set up a call for a natter so we can get to know each other better and ensure we’re a great fit. We’ll chat about your story so far, your vision for your celebration and how we could create beautiful art together. Your journey deserves to be documented by someone who resonates with your unique vibe, and I can’t wait to see if I’m that person for you. - [HOME](https://loumay.co.uk/): REAL LOVE adventures for REAL ADVENTUROUS LOVERS CINEMATIC HONEST PHOTOGRAPHY For you, if being present matters more than being perfect. LET’S GET STARTED ON A BEAUTIFUL ADVENTURE… I document connection in all its forms… Whether it’s the two of you on a windswept hill, a backyard gathering with your closest people, or a quiet moment of self-reflection.No pressure to perform. Just honesty. UK based + Has passport, loves travel! LET’S THROW OUT THE RULEBOOK… You don’t need a perfect day.You just need a day that’s yours. Real, unpolished, full of meaning. I’m Lou, and I’m not here to perform for […] - [Journal](https://loumay.co.uk/journal/): TALES OF THE WILDLY IN LOVE Follow along for a peek behind the scenes, creative updates, and all the beautiful love stories I’ve been capturing… Let’s CONNECT I believe that building trust and the connection between us is key to capturing your love story authentically. Let’s set up a call for a natter so we can get to know each other better and ensure we’re a great fit. We’ll chat about your story so far, your vision for your celebration and how we could create beautiful art together. Your journey deserves to be documented by someone who resonates with your […] - [Testimonials](https://loumay.co.uk/testimonials/): LOVE LETTERS Let me capture the essence of your day, the moments that truly matter – unfiltered, real, and uniquely yours… NATS AND MARTIN I just wanted to say thank you for making our wedding so perfect!! You really were the best and I have had so many people coming up saying how wonderful you were and that they couldn’t believe how much you joined in rather than just standing on the side!!  We really couldn’t have done the day without you and we are so lucky to have had you as our photographer!!! xxx EMS AND JEZ Louise I […] - [SERVICES & APPROACH](https://loumay.co.uk/services/): 01. My Approach… I’m here to capture the moments that really matter – no stiff poses, no rehearsed smiles – just you, as you are. Whether we’re chasing golden light across a wild coastline or finding quiet beauty in a hidden corner of the world, my focus is on documenting your real connection. I blend into the background, creating space for you to relax and be yourselves, so I can capture the true essence of your story. This isn’t about perfect images; it’s about capturing your story – the laughter, the quiet exchanges, and the beautiful chaos that makes your […] - [Thanks](https://loumay.co.uk/thanks/): THANK YOU Thank you so much for reaching out and sharing a glimpse of your love story. I can’t wait to dive into your vision and discuss how we can capture those raw, heartfelt moments together. I’ll be in touch very soon to start planning your beautiful adventure… I usually respond within 24 hours, this can take longer at weekends and when travelling. Replies can occasionally slip into your junk folder so do take a peek in there if you haven’t heard from me within 3 days. EXPLORE MORE… LATEST STORIES - [Contact](https://loumay.co.uk/contact/): IT ALL STARTS WITH A CONVERSATION. I only take on a limited number of weddings each year because I truly believe in getting to know the couples I work with. It’s all about making sure we’re on the same page and ready to create something real and honest together. I’d love to hear all about your journey so far, your plans, and what makes you, you. Share as much or as little as you’d like below! Tell me a bit about yourselves & I’ll be in touch soon! I typically respond to emails within a few hours, so if you […] - [Portfolio](https://loumay.co.uk/portfolio/): PORTFOLIO Not just what it looked like – what it felt like.A quiet window into real connection, honest moments, and stories that stay with you. OTHER STORIES LET’S CONNECT This is your first opportunity to connect with your ideal client. Describer what you love to do and who you like to do it for. eg. describe your ideal client. If It’s relevant, talk about where you’re based and add a call to action to your longer About page. - [About](https://loumay.co.uk/about/): I don’t do perfect. I don’t do performance. I document connection – how it really feels to be there, with the people who matter most. Whether that’s a windswept elopement, a gathering in your parents’ back garden, or a quiet day with someone who sees all of you. THINGS I LOVE… Hi, I’m Lou Lou, Louise, Lou Lou… whatever fits. I live on the edge of Exmoor with horses in the fields and sea spray in my hair. I’m a photographer, yes – but more than that, I’m here to hold space for something real. The raw stuff. The wild […] - [Privacy Policy](https://loumay.co.uk/privacy-policy/): PRIVACY POLICY (Totally GDPR Compliant – Promise!)   Hello & welcome! Hey there! If you’re reading this, you’re either a privacy policy enthusiast (we respect that) or just want to know what happens to the info you share with me. And because GDPR is all about keeping your data safe and sound, here’s everything you need to know about how I (Louise May Photography) handle your personal data with the utmost care and a dash of cheeky charm. What Personal Data I Collect (a.k.a. the Essentials) To give you the best photography experience, I collect just what I need and nothing […] [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)