About Emma Staley, Wedding Photographer

From Fine Art Degree to Wedding Photography

Growing up in Wales, I was 100% that kid who basically lived in the art department. Maths? Not my forte. Science? Meh. I was always happiest creating, getting messy with paints, losing hours in a sketchbook, and finding beauty in unexpected places. That love for creativity took me to Swansea Metropolitan University where I earned my BA Honours degree in Fine Art, and that creative eye has honestly never switched off. These days it just comes with a camera attached.

The Bit Where Life Got Wonderfully Chaotic

Since then life has been a bit of a whirlwind. I’m Welsh through and through (strong accent very much included), but life eventually carried me over the bridge to Portsmouth back in 2010, and I’ve been here ever since. I got married, put down roots surrounded by my husband’s big family, and raised two equally crazy, wonderful kids who are both now firmly in their teens (send help). Being a mum has always been my number one job, but as my little humans grow more independent, it’s finally time for me to fully step into this chapter, and I am absolutely here for it.

How I Became an Award-Winning Wedding Photographer

During lockdown I reconnected with my creative roots by picking up a camera again, and something just clicked. I threw myself into learning everything I could, studied locally here in Portsmouth, completed specialist wedding photography workshops, and haven’t stopped pushing myself since. What started as a creative outlet has become an award-winning career I’m genuinely so proud of, and I’m only just getting started.

Wedding Photography Across Hampshire, West Sussex, Surrey & Beyond

Based in Portsmouth, I photograph weddings across Hampshire, West Sussex, Surrey and well beyond, from intimate micro weddings in Winchester and Chichester to full blown celebrations at some seriously stunning venues across the South of England and further afield. Every couple, every love story, every kind of wedding is more than welcome here.

My Wedding Photography Style: Fun, Candid & Creative

Fun, candid and full of life, with a creative eye that loves finding the unexpected shot. I’m not interested in stiff poses or forced smiles. I want the tears during the vows, the belly laughs at the speeches, the chaos on the dance floor, and all the tiny brilliant moments happening in between that you’ll be so glad someone caught. Whether I’m blending into the background or gently nudging you somewhere with better light, I’m always watching, always ready, and always having the best time doing it.

Award-Winning Wedding Photographer, Ranked 5th in the World

I’m really proud to be an internationally award-winning wedding photographer, with images recognised by some of the most respected photography organisations in the world. As of right now I’m sitting 5th globally on the Flash Masters leaderboard for flash wedding photography, a ranking I’m still a little bit giddy about if I’m honest. But the reviews from my couples? They mean even more to me than the trophies.

Ready to Find Your Wedding Photographer?

If you’re looking for someone with tons of energy, a big heart, a creative eye, and a genuine inability to take a boring photo, I’d love to hear from you. Hit that contact button. I don’t bite. Much. 💛