We recently caught up with the fabulous Laura Farmer of Freeformimages Photography who has photographed a fair few weddings at Ash Barton over the years. We chatted about micro weddings, what inspires her and, of course, The Little Red Bus.

What do you most love about a wedding held at Ash Barton?

I love the relaxed vibe that Ash Barton brings to each and every wedding. The grounds are stunning and there are so many photo opportunities: From an outdoor ceremony under the old oak tree, the stunning lawns and walled garden, the wildflower meadow in the summer, the beautiful house and the big party barn. Ash Barton really is the perfect place to hold your wedding.

And I think because it’s a blank canvas, each and every couple are able to celebrate their wedding their way. From a wedding that can last a few days, to small intimate weddings. The style of Ash Barton really suits my photography too: relaxed and informal.

Is there a wedding you’ve photographed at Ash Barton that was particularly memorable?

Each of the weddings that I have had the honour of capturing have been memorable at Ash Barton, but these ones really stand out:

Both Ellie and Jake love North Devon and really wanted to get married here. They have very busy lives serving in the Army and Navy and to have a wedding weekend was just perfect. From Anchors Aweigh singing their sea shanties to an amazing feast by Sizzle Grills, it was a memorable day. It was also the hottest day on record!

Capturing Claire and James’ colourful fiesta wedding which was filled with fun, laughter, love and colour was incredible. Such a down to earth couple, and the kind of people that are easy to get along. Now I call them friends.

One of 2020’s most memorable was Ben and Emily’s big day. This was the first wedding after restrictions were eased due to Covid-19 on July 4th. Emily contacted me with only nine days to go and this day would have been their original wedding date. But no one knew whether their day could go ahead until the government had made the decision.

So they opted to have a micro wedding this year and celebrate with a larger party next year at Ash Barton. It just goes to show you can have a beautiful day when LOVE is all that matters! My memory will be one of climbing into the cherry picker to capture everyone by the lake and the old oak tree!

Do you have a favourite backdrop at Ash Barton which you know always makes a good photograph?

I adore the wildflower meadow at sunset in the summer. It’s my absolute favourite. But there are so many nooks to choose from. The house is so beautiful, and the gardens are just stunning. There are so many opportunities for magical moments.

How long have you been photographing weddings Laura and what got you into it?

I’ve been photographing weddings for over 20 years and I have always had a passion for photography since I remember picking up a camera. I shot my first wedding on 35mm film and used only four rolls of film!

I took the plunge to go into business when I had my son and wanted to leave teaching (the day job) to work around him, having moved to Devon 10 years ago. I love what I do, and I can’t imagine not having my camera by my side. Family is so important and to document someone’s wedding is an absolute pleasure.

How would you describe your style and approach?

My style of photography is very relaxed and informal. I use a mix of traditional and modern ideas. I’m really down to earth and this is what gives me such a rapport with my clients. I’m easy to approach and this makes my couples feel at ease and relaxed too.

What do you particularly like about photographing weddings?

To see everyone happy and smiling, celebrating the best day of their lives is an absolute honour and privilege. It’s great to document someone’s memories to be treasured forever.

How often do you meet or talk to couples before the big day?

I tend to meet couples twice before their wedding day. This is done virtually at the moment, and then at their venue so we can look at where they’d like their photos taken. We also create a wet weather plan just in case of the great British weather! Couples can also book a pre wedding shoot with me if they wish, so we can get to know each other better before their wedding day.

Do you plan which photographs you’ll take on the day or do you just go with the flow?

I always ask my couples what do they want from their photography? And if there are any particular group shots they want with the most important people to them. The couple will have a timeline they want to stick to too including the wedding breakfast and their speeches. But this of course is entirely flexible to how their day unfolds. At some point, I love to take my couples on a wedding walk with just the two of them to take it all in and capture some magical memories.

How many images do you usually take at an Ash Barton wedding? 

This depends how long the wedding day is! But couples usually receive 600+ images of their wedding day to treasure.

Who or what inspires you? 

Design inspires me. Since studying design and teaching it for over 15 years I have always had an eye for all things beautiful.

What advice would you give to Ash Barton couples looking for a wedding photographer?

Choose a photographer whose style you love and get to know them before your wedding day. Ask questions, chat to them, have a pre wedding shoot if you want.

Your photographer should be able to capture your happiest moments; you can’t do this if you feel awkward! Photography is very personal and you need to feel comfortable and at ease on your big day. 

So tell us about the ever-popular Little Red Bus!

The Little Red Bus is Rory is our beloved 1971 ex German fire crew bus that’s been pimped with a Subaru engine. So the bridal party or groomsmen can arrive in style and enjoy complimentary champagne (or cider and beer) during the ride. We can even decorate Rory to match your colour theme.

At the reception Rory turns into a photobooth compete with fun, high-quality props and instant prints. It’s a brilliant way to get the party started!

What tips would you give to Ash Barton couples to ensure their day runs smoothly?

Have a plan to your day, discuss this, say what images you would like and where, and give your photographer timings. I’m not saying be regimented - far from it. But it helps your photographer get an idea of what you want and who are the most important people in the party. Most of all enjoy your day, relax and have fun!