wedding photographY AT Swancar Farm Country House

Relaxed and Unposed Wedding Photography at Swancar Farm Country House

If you are looking for a venue that perfectly balances rustic country charm with contemporary luxury, Swancar Farm Country House in Nottinghamshire is an unbelievable choice. Sitting exclusively in the beautiful Trowell countryside and surrounded by rolling fields, it is a secluded rural escape that feels incredibly special.

As a Midlands wedding photographer who has shot over 500 weddings during the last 18 years, I absolutely love returning to Swancar. My photography style is entirely documentary. I do not want to turn your wedding day into a long and boring photoshoot. I am there to capture the real laughs, the happy tears, and the genuine fun while you actually enjoy your party.

Here is my insider guide to getting the most out of your Swancar Farm wedding photos.

The Morning: Calm and Bright Preparation in The Old Stables

One of the best things about Swancar is that you can start your celebrations the night before in The Old Stables private cottage. When I arrive on the morning of your wedding, the vibe is already relaxed.

Because I have photographed weddings here already, I know exactly how the natural light works in these preparation spaces. This means I can find the perfect spot for you to get ready without having to move you around or use distracting camera flashes. I just blend into the background, letting you enjoy a glass of fizz with your bridal party while I capture the nervous excitement and the finishing touches.

The Ceremony: The Glass Barn or The Gallery

When it comes to saying your vows, Swancar gives you a couple of beautiful indoor options depending on your guest list and accessibility needs.

The Glass Barn is the latest addition to Swancar and is an absolute dream for a photographer. This light and airy space is an extension to the Lower Barn and is located on the ground floor just off the courtyard. Because it is fully wheelchair accessible, it is the perfect, stress free option if you have guests with reduced mobility. The massive windows flood the room with natural daylight, allowing me to capture the exact moment you exchange rings perfectly without needing to use any harsh flashes.

The Gallery offers an incredibly sweet, intimate, and elegant alternative. The room has a wonderful romantic feel that allows me to shoot completely unobtrusively. However, it is worth keeping in mind that because it is located upstairs, it is not great for guests with reduced mobility and is impossible for wheelchair users to access.

If you are opting for a traditional church wedding off site, arriving back at Swancar along their sweeping countryside driveway is an absolute showstopper of a moment to capture on camera!

The Drinks Reception: The Cobbled Courtyard

After you walk back down the aisle, the celebrations naturally spill out into the cobbled courtyard. This space is brilliant because it keeps all your guests together in the sunshine. It creates a buzzing, lively atmosphere that is perfect for my candid style of photography. The Lower Barn and Glass Barn also offer a contemporary, yet homely setting for your drinks reception so you’re comfortable whatever the British weather throws at us.

While you are grabbing your first glass of champagne and hugging your friends, I am weaving through the crowd to capture those completely unposed, spontaneous moments. The courtyard is also the ultimate spot for a massive confetti run! We can easily squeeze in your essential family group shots here too or outside the house under the lovely hanging trees, getting them done in about 15-20 minutes so you do not miss out on the canapés.

Portraits: The Sweeping Driveway and Golden Hour

You cannot get married at Swancar Farm without getting a photo on that sweeping driveway. It is the classic hero shot with the beautiful country house sitting proudly in the background.

But my favourite time to take you out is during the evening golden hour. Because Swancar sits up high and is surrounded by open farmland, the sunset potential is unmatched. If the sky lights up, I will steal you away for just ten minutes. We will take a quick walk out toward the surrounding fields to get those warm, epic evening portraits. It is a great excuse for the two of you to step away from the noise and take a breath together.

The Evening Party: The Oak Hall and The Orangery

For your wedding breakfast and evening reception, The Oak Hall is a spectacular space. With its exposed brickwork, rustic beams, and fairy lights, it creates a stunning setting for your celebration. The atmosphere during the speeches in this room is always incredible.

Once the band or DJ starts playing, I do not just snap the first dance and head for the door. I stay to capture the real energy of your evening. You will find me right in the middle of the dancefloor, photographing the wild dance moves, the ties tied around heads, and your friends having the absolute time of their lives.

As the night winds down and the music fades, The Orangery provides the perfect cozy spot for your guests to enjoy a quiet nightcap before heading up to the bedrooms.