Carlowrie castle wedding photos by Scotland Wedding Photographer and Videographer

An Interview with SvenStudios: Wedding Photography in Australia vs. Scotland and the UK

When it comes to wedding photography, every location brings its own magic and challenges. Today, we sit down with Steven, the creative force behind SvenStudios, to talk about his experiences capturing love stories in two breathtakingly different regions—Australia and Scotland/the UK. From sunlit beaches to historic castles, Steven shares his insights into what makes each destination unique.

Interviewer: Steven, what are the biggest differences you’ve noticed between weddings in Australia and Scotland or the UK?

Steven: The differences are quite remarkable and reflect the unique character of each region. In Australia, weddings tend to lean heavily into the beauty of the outdoors. Couples love getting married on beaches, in vineyards, or surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Australian bush. The light in Australia is incredible—bright, golden, and dramatic. It’s perfect for capturing vibrant, dynamic images that feel alive.

In Scotland and the UK, weddings often embrace a sense of tradition and history. You’ll find ceremonies held in stunning castles, centuries-old churches, or elegant manor houses. There’s a timeless romance to these venues that’s hard to match, especially when combined with the softer, moodier light that’s characteristic of the region. Each setting has its own charm, and I love adapting to the unique vibe of the day.

Interviewer: What about the lighting? How does it impact your photography in each location?

Steven: Lighting plays a huge role in shaping my approach to wedding photography, and it can vary so much between these two regions. In Australia, the sun is bold and direct, creating strong contrasts and vibrant colours. The golden hour here is incredible but fleeting, so you really have to be quick to capture those magical moments before the light changes.

In Scotland and the UK, the light is often softer and more diffused, thanks to the cloud cover. This creates a romantic, ethereal quality that’s perfect for timeless imagery. That said, you also have to contend with unpredictable weather—it might rain at any moment! But honestly, I embrace that. Some of my favourite photos have come from couples dancing in the rain or mist rolling through a Scottish glen.

Interviewer: What challenges do you face as a photographer in these regions?

Steven: Each location has its own unique challenges, but that’s part of what makes it exciting. In Australia, the heat and harsh sunlight can be tough to work with, especially for midday ceremonies. I always plan ahead to make sure we have shaded spots or time the portraits around softer light later in the day.

In Scotland and the UK, the biggest challenge is often the weather. Rain is always a possibility, but I find that couples here are prepared for it and often embrace it as part of their day. I always keep umbrellas on hand, and honestly, the moody skies can add so much drama and character to the photos.

Interviewer: Do couples’ expectations differ between Australia and the UK?

Steven: Absolutely. In Australia, couples tend to have a more laid-back approach. They often want candid, documentary-style photos that capture the natural emotions and moments of the day. The focus is on storytelling rather than perfection, which suits my style really well.

In the UK, couples often expect a mix of candid and posed shots, with an emphasis on elegance and tradition. They might want formal group portraits in front of a grand venue, but they also love those intimate, natural moments that tell their story. It’s all about finding the balance that reflects the couple’s personality and vision for their day.

There are definitely cultural differences when it comes to what couples want from their wedding photography.

In Australia, it’s a bit more spontaneous than most. Couples tend to prioritize capturing the emotions of the day over perfectly posed images. They want to relive the laughter, tears, and little surprises when they look back at their photos. No matter where I’m shooting, though, the goal is always the same: to create photos that feel authentic to the couple and their story.

Of course everyone is different and naturally every wedding is different in this regard, so answering this question is quite difficult.

Interviewer: What do you love most about photographing weddings in these regions?

Steven: In Australia, it’s the landscapes. There’s something magical about capturing a couple standing hand-in-hand against the backdrop of a desert, the turquoise ocean, or rolling vineyards. The natural beauty here doesn’t just frame the story—it becomes part of it.

In Scotland and the UK, it’s the history and charm. I love working in locations that feel like they’ve been plucked from a fairytale. Whether it’s a windswept castle in the Highlands or a cozy countryside estate, there’s something truly special about capturing love in places that hold so much history.

Interviewer: What advice would you give couples planning a destination wedding in either region?

Steven: First, embrace the unique qualities of your chosen location. Whether it’s the golden sunlight of Australia or the moody skies of Scotland, let the setting inspire your day and your photos.

Second, communicate with your photographer. Share your vision and any specific moments or details you want captured. This helps me tailor my approach to make sure your story is told authentically.

And finally, go with the flow! Both Australia and the UK have unpredictable elements—be it weather, lighting, or even wildlife in Australia! Relax and enjoy the day, and that joy will shine through in your photos.

Steven: For me, it’s the combination of travel, storytelling, and creativity. Every location has its own personality, and I love the challenge of capturing that while celebrating the love and connection between a couple.

Whether it’s a windswept beach in Australia or a misty glen in Scotland, each wedding is a unique adventure. It’s such a privilege to be part of these moments and to create images that couples will treasure for a lifetime.

In the end, destination wedding photography is more than just capturing beautiful images—it’s about celebrating love in all its diversity and uniqueness. Whether it’s the laid-back charm of an Australian beach wedding or the grandeur of a ceremony in the USA’s stunning landscapes, each moment tells a story that deserves to be preserved with care and creativity. At SvenStudios, I’m committed to ensuring every couple’s journey is documented authentically, filled with the emotions, connections, and beauty that make their day unforgettable. It’s a privilege to be a part of these cherished moments, and I can’t wait to see where love takes me next.