Meet Wedding Photographer Mark Shaw
Mark Shaw has been making a living as a photographer for over six years, and specialises in family and wedding photography. A family man himself with a wife and two sons, Mark loves working in the field he is so passionate about. An award-winning wedding photographer based in Ponsanooth on the outskirts of Falmouth, Mark has captured numerous weddings at The Greenbank over the years, including a very unique Star Wars themed wedding last year.
“My style is relaxed, candid and natural with story-telling at its heart; quietly and discretely capturing moments creatively that tell the story of your day, leaving you and your guests to simply enjoy it.”
how long have you been a photographer for and how did you get into it?
I started out as a professional wedding photographer in Cornwall back in 2012 after I was asked by a friend to capture their wedding in Falmouth. And the rest, as they say, is history. I feel so lucky to have a career that allows me to pursue my passion for photography and use it to tell stories of the happiest days two people can share.
what’s the best thing about photographing a wedding at the greenbank?
The best thing about photographing at The Greenbank is the unique waterside setting and the photography opportunities that provides. For example, the jetty or boat ride on the Fal River with your guests for some really unique photos.
what’s your favourite image you’ve ever taken?
If it’s my favourite ‘wedding’ image then that’s tricky as I have so many favourites I’ve captured over the years in Cornwall. They can be viewed on my wedding photography gallery. If I was to pick only one wedding photo, it would be a photo that combines my love for natural unposed images, beautiful scenery, perfect light and of course…love.
what’s your best piece of advice for a couple planning their big day?
I have three tips from a wedding photography point of view. Firstly, don’t worry about the weather because rain or shine, you’ll get some fantastic photos. Second tip is to make sure you sneak away for some time just the two of you. Take it all in and enjoy a bit of alone time together. My third tip is when booking your wedding photographer, go with someone that provokes an emotional response from you when you look at their gallery and book someone that suits you both in terms of style and personality.
what’s the process once someone enquires about you photographing their big day?
I always like to arrange a meet up for a coffee and chat face-to-face once I’ve confirmed I’m available to capture the day. If you’re getting married at The Greenbank Hotel then what better place to meet? If a face-to-face chat isn’t possible then I offer a Skype or FaceTime call as an alternative. I keep the process relaxed and as simple as possible. I require only two things to book me. First is to complete my short online booking form, and second is to pay a 25% deposit. Once both are received, then that’s me booked as your wedding photographer! As I said, nice and simple.
Why should couples choose the greenbank as a venue?
A combination of the picturesque waterside location and the fantastic wedding team at The Greenbank who will make your big day run smoothly.
and why should they choose you as their photographer?
Alongside the people that make your day so special, I love to photograph the little details too. The flowers, the food, the scenery, the entertainment. All the things that make your wedding unique to you and tell the story. You’ll never hear me utter the words “say cheese” as I believe that candid images are best. It’s those real moments and emotions that mean so much to people.
I put 100% into every wedding I photograph. As a one man band, I’m able to create stunning photographs without needing to set-up or pose anything. If you’d like beautiful, natural images and want to focus on enjoying the day knowing your wedding photographs are in safe hands, my style would be perfect for your big day.
