Even if you haven’t heard Benjamin Wheeler’s name, you’ve probably seen his work. The likes of HRH Princess Beatrice, designer Savannah Miller and influencer Lucy Williams have all trusted the former fashion photographer to capture the most important day of their lives, and the images are simply stunning. Benjamin is now one of the most sought-after wedding photographers in the business, and so we sat down with him to find out how he got started, what makes a beautiful image, and where to get the best shots in Chelsea.
Tell us about your journey to becoming a wedding photographer.
I shot my first wedding when I was still in college, but it wasn’t until later, when I was shooting for luxury fashion houses such as Net-a-Porter and Burberry, that I discovered I could really make a business of all the wonderful weddings I had the opportunity to be a part of.
My first destination wedding came in 2014 when I flew to the Gili Islands in Indonesia to photograph an incredible week-long adventure for a dear school friend. The travel hasn’t stopped since, but after starting my company in 2015, I have been so lucky to also establish myself in London, the UK and across Europe.
How does your background in fashion inform the way you shoot today?
I try to always further elevate my wedding photography style by staying in touch with current trends and understanding where bridal fashion is moving next. It’s exciting to me when a couple tells me all about their vision for their day and how the fashion fits into their celebration. In terms of my approach and vision – editorial fashion photography has a huge influence on the end result of a collection of photographs.
For you, what is the most important thing when photographing someone’s big day?
Being the photographer on a wedding day is a huge privilege and responsibility. For me, it’s imperative to artistically capture the natural, authentic moments and tell the story of a wedding day in a captivating, creative and organic way. I like to work collaboratively with couples who enjoy my work and trust me to catch the big moments and the small, carefully curated touches, so they can stay fully present and enjoy the day as it should be.
What are your favourite spots in Chelsea for photos?
Chelsea has so many hidden roads and mews streets that are lovely to explore with your photographer. Allowing around 20-30 minutes for some portraits together or even with your family can be so special. I love the quieter streets between King’s Road down to the Embankment; the blossom trees on the street corners near The Phene; the walk up to Notting Hill too; I always focus on those timeless, natural moments like crossing the busy roads. Exploring and getting lost in the side streets can make for some really memorable and beautiful photographs after your ceremony. On Sloane Street, Holy Trinity Church is a beautiful Arts and Crafts building, and Cadogan Place Gardens are absolutely beautiful in the summertime (which you can access as a guest of The Cadogan, a Belmond Hotel).
Relax, focus on each other, your guests and enjoying the celebrations
You create beautifully printed books for couples – what is the value of this versus having a digital package?
In a digital world where we can carry thousands of images in our pockets (which no doubt has its benefits), there is still nothing quite like a print.
I find my photography comes to life even more on the printed page, with something of tangible beauty you can be proud to display in your home. Occasionally I have the opportunity to provide platinum palladium prints to couples after their wedding. These are printed with legacy in mind, with the print process and materials outlasting the life of the paper itself.
How do you work with a couple to understand their vision?
It is great to hear the vision of the couple before the booking – I see each wedding as a creative collaboration. My vision is to capture the authentic energy of a wedding day, with nothing staged or that interrupts the flow of the celebrations. I’m relaxed and discrete, moving with the natural flow of things and blending into the background – my main focus is capturing natural moments as they unfold, which I find matches what my couples are looking for.
How can a couple find the right photographer for them, and how far in advance should they start looking?
This can be a daunting task, but it’s important to start your search early! You may find that most photographers you contact may not have availability even two years in advance, however, I try to leave my schedule open enough 8-12 months out.
A useful starting point, if you are feeling overwhelmed with choice, style, approach or budget, is to find what resonates with you creatively. There are some incredible print and online directories such as The Lane, Together Journal, Love My Dress and Over the Moon, which can drive your inspiration and even help find local suppliers.
What’s the one piece of advice you give to couples on the day for achieving beautiful photos?
Relax, focus on each other, your guests and enjoying the celebrations. The wedding will fly past, so putting plans in place to create the best energy possible and having somebody, like a planner, to keep your schedule flowing is so key. Focusing on the amazing energy and allowing the creative team to do their thing is the way to guarantee beautiful photographs that document your day.
Can photos on a rainy wedding day work, or should people stay indoors?
Rainy weddings can happen, of course, even when planning a destination wedding. This doesn’t have to compromise your photography as there is so much opportunity for creativity. Shooting in window light inside or the reception room with candles lit before guests enter can be just as beautiful as outdoors and a quiet moment together on the day, but being adventurous is always an option too! Yes, the dress may get a little wet, but it will make for some lovely, authentic photographs.
