Authentic. Soulful. Unposed.
My business stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of wedding photography, distinguished by a blend of expertise, experience, and a unique approach that sets me apart from the rest of the industry. As an award-winning WPJA (Wedding Photojournalist Association) wedding photojournalist, my accolades speak volumes about the quality and authenticity of my work. Ranking 4th in the UK, 16th in Europe, and 20th globally is a testament to my skill and dedication in capturing the essence of love stories with unparalleled finesse.With 18 years of experience under my belt and over 450 weddings documented, I possess a wealth of expertise that few can rival. Each wedding I photograph adds to my depth of understanding, allowing me to anticipate moments before they unfold and immortalize them in timeless imagery. My journey through countless ceremonies, receptions, and intimate moments has honed my craft to perfection, making me a master storyteller through the lens.
What truly sets my business apart, however, is not just my technical prowess, but my philosophy towards wedding photography. My commitment to authenticity shines through in every image I capture. Eschewing posed shots and artificial setups, I opt instead for candid, unscripted moments that reflect the genuine emotions and interactions of the day. This approach not only sets my work apart aesthetically but also ensures that each photograph resonates with the true spirit of the occasion.
My style is characterized by its soulfulness, capturing not just the events of the day but the emotions that underpin them. From the nervous excitement of the bride getting ready to the heartfelt speeches and spontaneous laughter, my images are imbued with a depth and sincerity that transport viewers back to the moment itself. By allowing the wedding day to belong to the couple and their guests rather than imposing myself as the focal point, I create a narrative that is uniquely theirs.
Moreover, my dedication to preserving the authenticity of each wedding extends beyond the photographs themselves. My approach is one of collaboration and respect, working closely with couples to understand their vision and preferences while offering guidance and expertise where needed. By building a rapport based on trust and understanding, I create an environment where couples feel comfortable being themselves, resulting in photographs that are not just beautiful but deeply personal.
In a saturated market where wedding photographers abound, it is the integrity and excellence of my services that truly distinguish my business. My commitment to authenticity, coupled with my unparalleled expertise and experience, ensures that each couple who entrusts their special day to me receives not just photographs, but cherished memories that will last a lifetime. As I continue to innovate and inspire, my legacy as one of the world's foremost wedding photojournalists is sure to endure for years to come.
Served areas
- UK
Business details
- Year established: 2006
- Employees: 1
- Licensed
- Insured
Highlights and features
- Documentary Wedding Photographer
Associations and certifications
- WPJA - Wedding Photojournalist Association, ISPWP
Payment methods
- Cash, Checks, Debit cards, Credit cards, Mobile payments, Bank transfers
Services
Surely all wedding photographers are the same right? That's not the case. There's a buzzword doing the rounds. It's called 'documentary' and most wedding photographers seem to have hijacked the phrase. I don't particularly like to label my style, but if I have to, then my style is wedding photojournalism.
Request a date and time for a no-obligation consultation (either face-to-face or over an internet video chat). Please note: I document a maximum of 30 weddings per year and my diary does fill up quickly. Bookings aren't taken without having a relaxed, no-obligation chat to confirm that we're the right fit for each other; style, approach and personality-wise.
The wedding photography market is more crowded than ever before. Nowadays, everyone is a photographer, but do they have the eye, the experience and a calm approach for a one-off event? You've spent hours trawling through endless websites to find a natural wedding photographer whose style, approach & ethos stands out and matches your requirements.
If you don't find an answer here, please get in touch and I'll come back to you as soon as I can or request a consult and ask me live. My base is in Loughborough, Leicestershire but I work anywhere in the UK as I love working at new venues. Travel expenses are included for most UK weddings but occasionally I may have to quote extra depending on the distances involved and the logistics of the wedding. Working alongside another photographer would mean that my coverage of the day could become obtrusive.
I know this is cliche, but after the wedding, what are the only tangible things leftover that will evoke the memories of the day? Cliche or not, you can't escape the fact that still or moving images are the only things that remain long after you've eaten the food, the flowers have wilted & died, and the band or DJ have stopped playing.
Photos
Videos
Ian Bursill // Award Winning Wedding Photojournalist // 2023 Highlights
The 2023 highlights showreel of Ian Bursill, a top 4 UK, 16th in Europe and ranked 20th globally WPJA wedding photojournalist based out of Blackburn in Lancashire but covering the whole of the United Kingdom.
Please visit https://bursill.com if you like what you see.
Reviews (12)
Peter Hyde
Nov 04, 2020
Ian took our wedding photos. He is phenomenal in every aspect. His talent is outstanding, even made an ugly mug like me look an absolute rock star. His work ethic knows no bounds, getting to the venue early and staying late to take party photos. Everyone loved him and importantly to us, he wears a very nice suit on the day, such that he blends into the guests and is able to take very unobtrusive photos really capturing the moment! We loved working with him from the very first meeting to the very last when choosing wedding albums. I would recommend him to anyone!
Zoe Logan
Aug 24, 2020
From our first meeting with Ian, we knew instantly that we wanted him as our wedding photographer. We both knew we didn't want many staged photos as we aren't the most comfortable in front of a camera, so Ian's documentary style was perfect and captured the day so naturally. We decided we wanted an engagement shoot with Ian too so we could capture some photos of us with our dog and practice being in front of a camera before the wedding. Ian helped to choose the perfect location in the woods and the best timing to get the setting sunlight.
It was so relaxed and easy, we felt like we were just on a normal dog walk with friends. Then when we got the images back, we were over the moon. Ian had captured some cracking moments and even managed to get our dog to pose.no mean feat that's for sure! On the day of the wedding, Ian was great, especially as we had a lot going off and needed him to go to/from two locations.
He arrived in the morning and was instantly mixing with my family and bridesmaids, he made sure everyone was comfortable and relaxed before snapping away. He then drove across to capture the groom and groomsmen getting ready which was such a special extra to have. For the rest of the day, Ian was just like one of the guests, he was smartly dressed and mingled in with everyone so well.most of the time we didn't even realise he was there! Ian is not only an amazingly talented photographer but also the nicest, kindest man and the best person to have around on your special day.
He has such a genuine heart; nothing is too much trouble, and this shows through his photos and his eye for capturing the most magical, emotive moments. We can't thank him enough for providing us with a storybook of our day and for giving us memories we will forever look back on and cherish for years to come Thank you so much, Mitchell and Zoe xx
It was so relaxed and easy, we felt like we were just on a normal dog walk with friends. Then when we got the images back, we were over the moon. Ian had captured some cracking moments and even managed to get our dog to pose.no mean feat that's for sure! On the day of the wedding, Ian was great, especially as we had a lot going off and needed him to go to/from two locations.
He arrived in the morning and was instantly mixing with my family and bridesmaids, he made sure everyone was comfortable and relaxed before snapping away. He then drove across to capture the groom and groomsmen getting ready which was such a special extra to have. For the rest of the day, Ian was just like one of the guests, he was smartly dressed and mingled in with everyone so well.most of the time we didn't even realise he was there! Ian is not only an amazingly talented photographer but also the nicest, kindest man and the best person to have around on your special day.
He has such a genuine heart; nothing is too much trouble, and this shows through his photos and his eye for capturing the most magical, emotive moments. We can't thank him enough for providing us with a storybook of our day and for giving us memories we will forever look back on and cherish for years to come Thank you so much, Mitchell and Zoe xx
Mitum & Rima Chauhan
Jan 03, 2020
It was an absolute pleasure to have Ian as our wedding photographer. The biggest compliment we can give to Ian is that he was a seamless part of our wedding. But more so be came across as a helpful friend who captured our emotions, humour and pure joy of the day. We look back on those pictures with fond memories and smiles. Ian doesn't only capture photos he captures life long memories.
Jamie Richards
Nov 28, 2019
Booking Ian was the best decision we made regarding our wedding day. There's so much to think about in the run up and on the day. We always felt comfortable that we never had to worry about the photography. We knew he would be there on time, get the shots we needed and do it in a way that wouldn't disturb or be too noticeable. He's the ultimate professional and so down-to-earth and friendly. I would 100% recommend him for anyone's important day.
Harriet E. Swainson
Sep 03, 2018
Ian is an absolute master behind the lens. More than that, he is a truly decent man. Ian shot our wedding back in 2011. When we got our pictures we both beamed with happiness as his images vividly brought all of the emotions of the day back to us. When we decided we wanted some professional family pictures done, we didn't hesitate to ask Ian and we are so so pleased we did. Ian was absolutely fantastic with the kids (one of whom is often quite shy with new people) and once again captured some fabulous moments which we will cherish as a reminder of our lives today. We just hope Ian is available in another 5 or 6 years to continue our family journey!
Lewis Crowdell
Jul 11, 2018
The photos of your wedding, if done right, will transcend generations and either make those who weren't there feel the joy from the day or for those who attended, bring back all the memories. Ian captured the story of our day wonderfully and we are so happy we chose him. A truly lovely man and when speaking to our guests on our wedding day they kept telling me "Isn't your photographer a lovely man". We are very, very happy with our photos and working with Ian.
Claire Hack
May 28, 2018
It's simple. You just have to use Ian for the most important days of your life! Ian photographed our wedding last July and has created the most amazing emotional story of our very special day. He is a wonderful person and so easy to have around, you don't really notice all the fabulous work he's doing. And the albums and framed photo's are to die for. thank you so much Ian!
Ian Paterson
May 26, 2018
Ian photographed our wedding in July 2017. From begging to end he was extremely professional and a joy to deal with. Most importantly his photographs are a treasured record of our special day. The album he created paints an amazing picture of the people, events and moments. He managed to achieve this with the minimum of fuss on the day, indeed in many ways you forgot he was there. I whole heartedly recommend Ian to anyone looking for someone to capture their special event.
Julia Chiavetta
May 23, 2018
Ian was one of the first bookings we made for our wedding (December 2016) as we wanted to make sure he was free for our day as we knew without him our day would be missing something vital! Ian's photos are the most beautiful keepsake of our very special day. I love the fact that every photo tells a story. They are so special and we are forever grateful to Ian. Ian is not only a wonderful, low key, photographer but he is also an absolute joy to be around. He makes even the most camera shy of people feel comfortable and is just a true gent. Thanks Ian!
Claire Swanwick
Jul 11, 2017
Where do I start! Ian is amazing! The great thing is you feel like you have none him for year he is truly fantastic at what he does so professional!. he made our day perfect. He made use feel so comfortable everyone kept saying how lovely he was. Our photos didn't disappoint to they were everything we wanted and more. If you want the best Ian is the person!
Chris Newsome
Nov 23, 2016
Fantastic set of memories from our daughters wedding. The attention to detail, the capture of the moment rather than regimental posing, and the inconspicuous way Ian melted through the guests to take the best photos was exemplary; he was really an unseen guest!. This all made for an absolutely wonderful day that we will look back on with very grateful thanks.
Gareth Blunden
Mar 04, 2016
Ian photographed our wedding earlier this year and was absolutely fantastic. The photos were amazing and really captured our day and the personalities that made it. Ian was the perfect addition to our wedding - You never saw him unless he was popping up to help out with something, but still managed to capture loads of great shots. I couldn't recommend him more.