Jack & Jemima

Living so close to the city meant that Selwyn College was a fitting choice of wedding venue for Jack and Jemima. One of 31 different University of Cambridge colleges. Especially the groom who had studied at Selwyn. A romantic and historic setting to begin their married life together, and an ideal backdrop for Cambridge wedding photography.

Founded in 1882, Selwyn has plenty of character and history just as you’d expect. The bell in the clock tower is a good talking point for starters. Former Prime Minister William Gladstone was a supporter of the college and gifted the college a particularly loud bell as he believed that students needed to be woken up at a productive time in the morning. It is still referred to as Gladstone’s Bell today.

Wedding ceremonies here take place inside a striking neo-Gothic chapel. Standing tall amongst sweeping college lawns, arched doorways and other red-brick buildings.

One of Selwyn College’s best kept secrets is how peaceful it feels (excluding the bell of course!). The generous university gardens are tucked away from busy roads. So wedding parties here feel relaxed and private — even though you’re right in central Cambridge. It has a reputation as one of the most laid-back and welcoming colleges. Ideal for couples who want something elegant but not intimidating.

Parkrun

Jack and Jemima’s wedding day started off in the best possible fashion – in my opinion – with a run!

A few short hours before their wedding ceremony, the bride and groom teamed up with friends and family for a stretch of the legs at Brook Leys parkrun in Cambridge. Immaculate wedding dresses and suits were sensibly put to one side as they opted for running tops and shorts / leggings.

It was a misty & cold January day. But the high-vis gang of marshals, spectators & runners were characteristically chatty & friendly.

So it was all smiles as Jemima enjoyed leading the bridal party on a social run. Meanwhile Jack, having already completed the 5km course far quicker than most, jogged back to repeat the final lap as a warm-down with the rest of the gang.

Bridal prep

The bridal group had hired three student rooms in Ann’s Court, a modern development at the back of the college, for getting ready after the run. Given that university student rooms can be notoriously small in size it was a sensible decision to have overflow space.

Once they were all dressed up the bridal party made a relaxed walk through the college grounds towards the chapel. Shortly before meeting the Dean they were overtaken by a late-arriving chorister. He sprinted ahead of them to take his seat in the chapel just in time.

Ceremony

You could almost hear a pin drop for Jemima’s entrance as she made her way down the long aisle, arm in arm with her dad. Wearing a long sleeveless dress and classic wedding veil. Meanwhile the nervous groom waited patiently at the altar.

In between the readings and vows, the college choir sang and led the congregational hymns, providing a stirring soundtrack to Jack & Jemima’s service.

Selwyn’s chapel is full of character, with intricate woodwork, a high vaulted ceiling and a lengthy aisle. This naturally enhances the drama and emotional impact of the wedding ceremony. It can comfortably seat around 150 guests, and provides a calm feel that works just as well for traditional weddings as for more personal celebrations.

Evening reception

Guests assembled in the oak-panelled Great Hall after the ceremony. The happy couple were then greeted with customary napkin-waving as they made their big entrance through the middle of the dining tables.  

After speeches and wedding breakfast, it wasn’t long before the evening dancing kicked off. Colonel Spanky’s Love Ensemble, a brass and funk band, provided the rhythm as the energy levels cranked up. The wedding party sang at the top of their lungs and the dance moves carried on late into the night.

‘On the day itself he was so calm, discreet, and completely in tune with the relaxed, natural feel we wanted. Nick captured the spirit, emotion, and energy of the day perfectly.’

Considering one of the Cambridge Colleges for Your Wedding?

If you’re planning a wedding here, you’re in for something pretty special.

In order to get married at one of the Cambridge colleges you must first obtain permission. Contact the respective Dean or college staff. And if you’re lucky enough to be an alumni or a fellow, staff member or family member, you’re in with a good chance of receiving a licence.

How I Approach Cambridge Wedding Photography

My approach is very much moments over posing. I let the day unfold and quietly document it as it goes, rather than staging things or taking you away from the fun. I’m always looking for emotions and little gestures that actually feel like it was your wedding.

With their mix of vibrant red-brick buildings, gardens and open spaces, the Cambridge university colleges are ideal for this kind of story-led photography. And from morning prep right up to late-night dancing, I’m there capturing the atmosphere and the fun.

At a quiet point in the day I’ll see if you have 10-15 minutes spare for a few (very lightly posed) portraits – nothing forced, nothing awkward. Just a short breather, a bit of gentle prompting if needed, and some natural photos that still feel very you.

What It’s Like Working With Me

From our first chat to delivering your beautiful photos, I’m there to make things easy. I’ve been photographing weddings since 2019 and I know how to stay calm, adapt quickly and keep things feeling fun and relaxed.

You can expect:

• A pre-wedding chat about your plans, timeline and what matters most to you
• Subtle, unobtrusive coverage on the day
• Coverage of special moments you might have missed.

Why Choose Me for Your Cambridge Wedding Photography?

• Relaxed, documentary approach
• Candid moments over perfect poses
• Friendly, low-pressure energy
• A good understanding of Cambridge’s streets and colleges, and where the best light falls.

Let’s Talk About Your Wedding in Cambridge

If you’re planning a wedding in Cambridge and want photos that reflect how the day actually felt – the laughs, the chaos, the tears and all the special moments – I’d love to chat.

Get in touch and tell me about your wedding plans.