The first of a double header wedding weekend, Saturday the 28th saw me photograph the wedding of Anika and Wayne at the amazing Lost Village of Dode in Kent. Dode is an ancient church, abandoned in 1349, sympathetically restored 10 years ago into an amazing setting for weddings. Straw covers the floor and the guests sit on rug-covered benches. Lighting is from candles and torches – which makes for a great atmosphere for guests, but tricky conditions for a wedding photographer! The sheer lack of light means high ISO and fast lenses (50mm F1.4, 24mm F1.4) are the order of the day, as overuse of flash would ruin the atmosphere.
Anika got ready in the cabin next to Dode whilst Wayne and the guests milled round outside. Everyone filed into Dode (and was amazed!) before the bride’s entrance to the candlelit, intimate ceremony. After the ceremony the guests enjoyed the grounds of Dode whilst the staff quickly turned the venue round from the ceremony to the set up for the wedding breakfast. During this time I took the couple of for some relaxed bride and groom shots, before the group shots – including a group photo, rugby-lad style!!
After the meal, we were treated to some great speeches – touching yet funny with some great guest reactions. And then onto the first dance!
Here are some of my favourites from the day.
If you’re getting married at The Lost Village of Dode in Kent, then please contact me to discuss your requirements!
All photographs copyright David Burke Photography 2011