About
Fifteen years photographing South Wales
I'm Jonathan, a documentary photographer based in Newport, working across Cwmbran, Cardiff and the wider South Wales valleys and coast.
I studied photography at degree level, then spent several years teaching art — which is where I actually learned the two things that matter most on a shoot day: how to read light and composition instinctively, and how to put someone nervous or camera-shy properly at ease. That second part is probably the one that matters more to you — if you've ever not liked having your photo taken, this is exactly the kind of session built to change your mind. Years photographing live music in small venues added the rest: working fast, in bad light, without getting in anyone's way. So on the day, you get to just be there — not perform for a camera.
Whether it's your wedding morning, a family walk on the headland, or a product set in the studio, the aim is always the same: to get the real you, not a version of you arranged for the camera.
Since then I've photographed more than 250 weddings, worked with independent brands and hospitality venues across the region, and spent plenty of time in living rooms and on clifftops with families who'd rather be anywhere than in front of a lens — so if that's you too, you're in familiar company.
Philosophy
Photographs earn their keep years later — so when I edit yours, I'm thinking about how they'll look in ten years, not how they'll look on Instagram tomorrow. Natural colour, honest skin tones, no heavy filters that'll date the set. I'd rather give you 400 images you'll actually look at than 1,200 you'll never open.
Practicalities
You're covered by full public liability insurance, every shoot is backed up on dual memory cards, and a second photographer is available for larger days — so whatever happens, your photos are protected. I'm an accredited member of the Society of Photographers, and hold a live, checkable Enhanced DBS certificate — a straightforward reassurance for schools, nurseries and any commercial work involving under-18s. Based in Newport, Cwmbran & Cardiff — and happy to travel anywhere in South Wales.