Normanton Church Editorial Shoot: Featured in Velvet Magazine

Bride walking with long veil by water

I’m so excited to finally share one of my favorite recent editorials, which was featured in the February 2026 issue of Velvet Magazine. This shoot holds such a special place in my heart, not only because of the imagery we created, but because of the incredible collaboration that made it all possible.

An Enchanting Setting by the Water

We journeyed to the majestic Normanton Church on the shores of Rutland Water for this captivating photoshoot, and from the moment I arrived, I knew it would be something extraordinary. The atmosphere felt almost cinematic. The day was sun-drenched and golden, and the resulting images look as though they could have been photographed in Italy or France rather than in the English countryside.

The location shaped everything. The architecture, the reflection of light on the water, and the quiet stillness of the surroundings created a setting that felt timeless and deeply romantic. Places like this don’t simply frame a photograph. They become part of the story.

The Creative Vision

Black and white close-up portrait

This editorial was centered around the venue itself, a vision led by model, stylist, and creative director Rohiny Belani (@asweetrohmance). Her concept was to highlight the character of Normanton Church (@NormantonChurch) and allow its history and design to guide the aesthetic.

She described it perfectly:

“This photoshoot was centred around Normanton Church, with its fascinating architecture, spectacular views and history; a unique wedding venue that provides it all.”

With that vision in mind, I approached the shoot with intention, focusing on composition, light, and movement to create imagery that felt both editorial and emotive.

Details That Elevated the Story

Bride against stone arch

Every element of the shoot was chosen with care, and each collaborator brought artistry that elevated the final result.

Rohiny’s styling paired beautifully with gowns from Shades of White (@shadesofwhitestives), whose designs moved effortlessly in the breeze and complemented the architecture’s elegance. The delicate pieces from Susie Warner Bridal (@susie_warner_bridal) added a refined sparkle that caught the light beautifully, especially in the close detail imagery.

Bride under rotunda columns

The florals by Pneuma Floral Co (@pneumafloral.co) were another highlight. Their arrangements felt organic and sculptural at the same time, echoing the natural landscape while adding softness to the stone surroundings.

Makeup artist Kate Fletcher (@flashkatemua) created a look that was luminous and timeless, enhancing natural features without distracting from the overall aesthetic. 

Videographer Charley Atherton (@themysteryguestuk) captured the same atmosphere in motion, documenting the quiet elegance of the day as it unfolded.

Working with creatives who share a deep respect for detail and artistry always allows a shoot to feel cohesive from beginning to end.

My Approach Behind the Lens

Bride leaning on column holding glass

When I photograph editorials like this, I’m always looking for balance. Strong architecture paired with soft fabric. Structured composition paired with movement. Wide, atmospheric frames paired with intimate details.

Normanton Church offered that contrast effortlessly. Its stately lines grounded the imagery, while the styling and natural light introduced softness and romance.

Bouquet in water detail shot

Details matter just as much as wide frames. The movement of water, the texture of fabric, the way light hits a surface. These quieter moments often become the images that complete the story.

Why This Feature Matters to Me

Seated bride in water

Being featured in Velvet Magazine is truly an honor, but what means the most to me is seeing a vision come to life exactly as we imagined it. Editorial shoots require trust, creativity, and a shared dedication to producing something beautiful.

This shoot represents what happens when artistry, intention, and collaboration align. Moments like this remind me why I love what I do. Photography, at its core, is storytelling. And this story is one I’ll always be proud to have captured.

Thank you for celebrating this feature with me.

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