Capturing Love at Solton Manor: A Wedding Photographer’s Dream
There’s something truly magical about photographing a wedding at Solton Manor in Kent. Nestled in the rolling countryside, this historic venue offers a stunning backdrop for any couple’s special day. As a Kent wedding photographer, I thrive on capturing the emotions, the little details, and the grand moments that make each wedding unique—and this particular celebration was nothing short of spectacular.
I photographed this Solton Manor wedding in a typical Blue Lily Weddings approach. Just documenting things as they happen without intusion, letting the couple and their guests enjoy their day.
This combioned with a few quick lovely couple portraits created a wedding album which eveyone enjoyed very much, just have a look :).
Bridal Preparations in the Charming Manor House
The day began in the beautiful bridal suite of Solton Manor, where the bride and her bridesmaids were getting ready. Natural light poured through the large windows, creating the perfect setting for those soft, romantic getting-ready shots. I captured close-ups of the intricate lace details on the bride’s gown, the sparkle of her engagement ring resting on an elegant invitation suite, and the laughter shared as the makeup artist applied the finishing touches.
The groom and his groomsmen prepared in the nearby barn, adjusting their cufflinks and ties, sharing a toast before the ceremony. I focused on candid moments—tight shots of nervous hands adjusting a tie, the best man giving a reassuring pat on the groom’s shoulder, and the polished leather of freshly shined shoes lined up in anticipation of the big day.
A Romantic Ceremony Under the Ceremony Rooms Rustic Beams
The wedding ceremony took place in Solton Manor’s ceremony, adorned with twinkling fairy lights and floral arrangements cascading from the beams. As the bride made her entrance, I positioned myself strategically to capture her mother’s proud expression and the groom’s emotional reaction. The exchange of vows, the subtle squeeze of hands, the soft smiles—all were immortalized through my lens.
As they shared their first kiss as husband and wife, I used my fast prime lens to blur out the background, ensuring the focus was solely on the couple in their moment of pure joy. The soft, warm glow of the afternoon sun streaming through the windows.
Golden Hour Portraits in the Estate’s Idyllic Grounds
After the confetti toss—a flurry of petals that created a dynamic, motion-filled frame—it was time for the couple’s portraits. Solton Manor’s gardens and picturesque grounds provided endless opportunities for breathtaking compositions.
Golden hour was a photographer’s dream. The low sun cast a golden hue through the branches in nearby woods, creating stunning backlight for romantic, intimate shots. I encouraged the couple to walk hand in hand down a tree-lined path, capturing the movement and natural chemistry between them. For a few dramatic shots, I used an off-camera flash to subtly highlight the couple against the dusk sky, creating a moody, cinematic effect.
A Reception Filled with Emotion and Celebration
As guests gathered in the wedding reception barn for the reception, the atmosphere was electric. I documented heartfelt speeches, capturing laughter and tears alike. The mother of the bride’s speech brought an emotional reaction from the newlyweds, while the best man’s anecdotes had the entire room in fits of laughter.
When it was time for the first dance, I used a combination of slow shutter speeds and off-camera flash to create dreamy, motion-filled images that showcased the couple twirling under the fairy-lit canopy. The dance floor soon erupted with energy, and I switched to a wide-angle lens to capture the joyous chaos of guests dancing and celebrating.
The Perfect Ending to a Perfect Day
As the evening came to a close, the couple stepped outside for a flower toss as well as a whisky bottle throw. With a final click, I knew I had captured memories that would last a lifetime.
Solton Manor proved once again to be an incredible venue, offering everything a wedding photographer dreams of: stunning backdrops, natural light, and beautiful moments waiting to be preserved. Every wedding I photograph reminds me why I love this job—freezing time, capturing love, and telling stories through my lens.
If you’re planning a wedding at Solton Manor and want your love story beautifully documented, I’d love to hear from you!
If you enjoyed this Solton Manor wedding blog post, feel free to check this other Kent weddings i photographed recently.
