frequently asked questions

What style do you shoot?

I like to meet the couple beforehand, get to know them and what they are looking for in a photographer. Most couples that book me are looking for natural shots that will tell the story of their day as it happens, not just a series of posed events. The most important thing is to capture the emotion and the spirit, whilst remaining as unobtrusive as possible.

As well as photographing the events of the day, I also photograph the details, such as the invitations, the flowers and the dress. Capturing these fine points of the wedding completes the overall story and memory of the day.

An important but often overlooked quality of your photographer, is their ability to meet the consistent high quality standard required, especially as a wedding is a once in a lifetime event. Feel free to take a look at some complete coverage, not just the best shots from the day - complete weddings

Do you photograph group shots?

Group shots are important, as the whole family is not often together or looking so smart! It’s important to photograph the groups and for everyone to be included in the photography. We do these quickly, with the minimum of fuss. It is recommended that the group shots be kept to a minimum, so you can get back to your guests and the photography doesn’t impose on the day’s enjoyment.

Do you work with a second photographer?

I work with my partner Martyn, who also takes images for comprehensive coverage. While one of us is photographing the groups, the other captures candid images of the guests. Although Martyn has shot his own weddings, we prefer to work together as a team. Here is some of Martyns work - Martyns gallery

Do you check out the venue beforehand?

I will check out the venue before the wedding so that I can work out a plan for the best location for the group and couple shots. This can be done on the morning of the wedding, when the light can be better determined. Nothing is left to chance.

Are you a member of a professional association and do you have insurance?

Yes I am a member of the Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers and I have professional indemnity and public liability insurance.

Are you digital?

I use digital cameras with quality Nikon lenses. I always carry backups cameras, lenses and flash! Digital offers many advantages, including the ability to photograph in colour and then convert to black and white. It allows complete creative control, as I’m free to enhance images in the computer afterwards. The quality of professional digital cameras is superb and gives beautiful prints.

How many shots can we choose from and are the high resolution files available?

Another advantage of digital is that more photographs can be taken, although I’m a firm believer in quality versus quantity.

You can expect to choose from 200-400 photographs depending on the length of coverage. High resolution images of all the photographs are available to purchase.

Do I have copyright of the high resolution files?

The copyright remains with Julie Cooke but personal usage rights are granted so you can make your own prints, thank you cards and even albums if desired.

Where are my images stored?

We take great care of client files and go to the expense of backing them up on multiple drives. In this way, we are protected against hardware failure.

Are albums offered?

Albums are offered in some wedding packages. The albums are for those that want the best, they are hand made, bound in the finest leather. The album design is unique for each couple and comes in a range of covers and colours. Furthermore, each photograph in the album is hand finished so that you look your best and all photographs are printed on archival paper, independent tests confirming that the prints last for 100 years plus.

Do you only photograph weddings in Berkshire?

I am based in Burghfield Common, Berkshire, which is situated close to major motorways and can easily cover Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire, Sussex, Kent, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire. However I am willing to travel within the UK and abroad.

What if it rains?

On the unlucky event that it does rain, this need not spoil your photographs. With documentary style photography, the rain is part of the day and so part of the photography. It rained for part of the day on the featured wedding

What happens if Julie is ill?

In the unusual event of illness, I have a network of professional wedding photographers that can be called upon. Furthermore I am a member of a professional wedding forum of photographers and I am part of their emergency cover list.

Do you have a list of recommended suppliers?

Here is a list of some of the best people that we've worked with - recommended suppliers

How much time goes into the wedding photography?

A minimum of 60 hours is spent on each wedding. Before the wedding there is a pre wedding consultation, so I can get to know your personalities and what you are looking for in a photographer. We discuss the photography on the day in detail.

Each image is individually adjusted for contrast, colour and minor retouching is performed. For example blemishes or marks on the dress are removed. Photographs are usually ready three weeks after the wedding, in peak season please allow four weeks.

How do I book?

In order to do my best and give you my full attention, I only photograph one wedding per day. I do a select number of weddings per year, so early booking is advisable.

Most couples like to come and meet me to talk through their requirements and how the photography will work on the day. However if this is not possible due to long distance or commitments, then a booking fee can be taken to secure your date.