Friern Manor wedding photographer
A real late summer wedding at Friern Manor in Brentwood, from the dress and details to golden-hour portraits in the gardens, a candlelit first dance and the grounds lit up after dark.
A late summer wedding at Friern Manor
The day started with the details: the dress hanging in a doorway, the tiara and the shoes. The ceremony took place in the draped ceremony room, with plenty of natural light for the walk down the aisle, the first kiss and signing the register.
Afterwards we headed into the gardens for couple portraits, by the water, along the garden paths and at a pastel-blue beach-hut door that added a bit of fun. As the sun went down, the golden light made some of the most romantic photos of the day.
Into the evening
I stayed for the candlelit first dance and some of the party, with guests laughing and the dance floor in full swing. Outside, the lit-up trees made a beautiful night-time backdrop for one last portrait.
Photography tips for Friern Manor
- Ceremony: the draped room is bright and even, so there’s no need to worry about harsh light.
- Couple portraits: plan a short slot around sunset for the golden light in the gardens.
- Rainy days: the courtyard with its retractable glass roof keeps everyone dry while still letting in natural light.
- Evening: keep your photographer until after the first dance to capture the grounds lit up after dark.
Your wedding at Friern Manor
I’m based in Maidstone and happily travel to Essex. My full-day package suits Friern Manor perfectly if you’d like the evening covered too, and my twilight package works for later starts. Both include printing, and every wedding is shot on two cameras, including a 100-megapixel medium format camera.
Google reviews
What couples say
“His demeanour and calm nature was excellent when getting the group photos and he wasn’t intrusive when capturing the ceremony and more relaxed moments.”
“He managed to get some very excited guests into position for some fantastic group shots.”
“On the day, Chris arrived early to prepare and talked us through everything, step by step as the day progressed. He put us both at ease, which helped settle our nerves…”
“Despite there being severe delays beyond the control of all involved, Chris completely rearranged his day to make sure he could capture ours.”
“Chris really got to know us as we worked out what we wanted our wedding to be like. He understood exactly what we wanted - a relaxed vibe!”
“He was very discreet but there for every single special moment! We were blown away by the pictures we received from Chris!”
Questions people ask
Where are the best photo spots at Friern Manor?
The draped ceremony room is light and elegant, the gardens and water are lovely for couple portraits, and there’s a fun pastel-blue beach-hut door that makes a great quirky shot. After dark, the lit-up trees in the grounds make a magical backdrop.
What if it rains at Friern Manor?
Friern Manor has a courtyard with a retractable glass roof, so you stay dry and still get plenty of natural light. It’s a great backup for group photos and portraits.
Is it worth having the evening photographed at Friern Manor?
Yes. The grounds are lit up at night and the first dance is lit by candles, so the evening has a completely different, glowing atmosphere. At this wedding I stayed for the first dance and some of the party, which gave the couple some of their liveliest photos.
Which package suits a Friern Manor wedding?
My full-day package at £997 including VAT covers everything from preparation to the first dance and party. If your celebration starts later in the day, the twilight package is £697 including VAT.
Do you travel to Essex?
Yes. I’m based in Maidstone, and Friern Manor is about 45 minutes to an hour away via the Dartford Crossing. I photograph weddings across Kent, Essex, London and the south east.
Venue guides
Other venues I've photographed
More real weddings from venues across Kent and Essex.
Getting married at Friern Manor?
I know the venue and where the best light falls. Send me your date and I'll confirm availability.
Prefer to talk? Call 01622 961023. It comes straight through to my mobile.