Matara Wedding Photography
Hidden away near Tetbury in the Cotswolds, Matara is a wedding venue that I always get excited about. It genuinely feels calm, and completely different to anywhere else.
The Matara is perfect for couples who want their wedding day to feel personal. From a photography point of view, it lends itself beautifully to documentary story telling wedding photography, where moments unfold in areas such as the stunning cloistered courtyard (ceremony), or the connecting rooms called Unity, Beech and Mandela. The wedding breakfast in the simply divine Hilarium. The expansive gardens are totally breathtaking and I’ve been privileged to have witnessed many emotions in the 15 odd years I’ve been photographing weddings there.
A Collection of Real Matara Weddings
This blog isn’t about one single wedding, but a collection of moments from weddings at Matara across different seasons. Each celebration feels unique, shaped by the people, the rituals and the energy they bring to the space.
What remains consistent is the feeling — grounded, thoughtful and full of genuine emotion. It’s these moments that make Matara such a special place to photograph.
Recommended Wedding Photographer at the Matara!
I am also proud to be on the Matara’s recommended photographer on their suppliers list. No mean feet! But one that means I have gotten to know the place very well over the years.
Why Matara Works So Well for Documentary Wedding Photography
Matara is seriously well suited to relaxed, candid wedding photography because the rooms naturally flow, guests hang out and pockets of beauty (what I see through my camera lens!) are everywhere. I’m always like a kid in a candy shop when I’m there!
My approach is to candidly capture the fun happening around you, yet I won’t be in the way. Blending in is what I’m all about! We’ve all heard of so many stories of couples who have missed their champagne reception and not had a chance to chat with their guests because their wedding photographer has taken them off for hours for lots of poses.
While, obviously, I think photography is quite important, it’s only one aspect of your whole day. It’s about celebrating your commitment and the merging of two families together into a new one. You probably have guests coming from around the world to be there on the day and I want you to have plenty of time to see everyone – I will essentially capture this in a natural documentary style way, with my fly on the wall approach. After all natural photos are the best.
Having said that I can (and will of course) photograph family and friends group shots, but I’d recommend no more than 10 family and friends group shots – otherwise it completely stops the flow of the day.
Matara Wedding Photography – FAQs
Is Matara good for candid wedding photography?
Yes. Matara’s calm, nature-led environment makes it ideal for documentary wedding photography focused on real moments and genuine connection.
Where is Matara located?
Matara is located near Tetbury in the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire.
Is Matara suitable for non-traditional weddings?
Very much so. It’s especially popular with couples planning spiritual, humanist or deeply personal ceremonies.
Does Matara work in all seasons?
Yes. The gardens shine in spring and summer, while the indoor spaces provide warmth and intimacy in cooler months.
Matara Wedding Photographer
If you’re planning a wedding at Matara and want relaxed, documentary wedding photography that captures the emotion, atmosphere and story of the day, I’d love to hear from you.
