I’m Paul Streeter-Staniford your relaxed Sussex wedding photographer based in Horsham, West Sussex. I photograph weddings in Sussex and beyond, and I’m probably the only photographer you’ll meet who genuinely believes that most wedding photos are over-posed, awkward, and just a bit… stiff. I don’t do stiff. If you hate being in front of a camera, you’re exactly my kind of couple. Let’s fix that.
I live and work from Horsham, West Sussex, a stone’s throw from the South Downs and some of the loveliest wedding venues in the country. I’ve spent years building a style that’s relaxed, natural, and – dare I say it – fun. No forced smiles, no standing around while I fiddle with a light stand for twenty minutes. Just real moments, captured as they happen.
How I ended up behind the lens
Photography started for me as a hobby many years ago. I loved the idea of freezing a single moment in time – a laugh, a glance, a tear – and keeping it forever. But the more I shot, the more I realised that the posed, manufactured style of wedding photography wasn’t for me. It didn’t feel honest. And I knew there had to be other couples who felt the same way.
So I started a business that does things differently. My approach is simple: I blend into the background, I make you laugh (or at least try to), and I capture the day exactly as it unfolds. The result? Photos that look and feel like the people in them. No acting required.
Why Sussex?
I’ve lived in Sussex for years, and it’s shaped the way I work. From the rolling hills of the South Downs to the intimate barns and manor houses tucked away in the countryside, this county has an incredible variety of wedding venues. I know the light, the weather patterns, and the best spots for a quick, relaxed portrait session (ten to twenty minutes, and we’re done – I promise).
Sussex is my home. When you book me, you’re getting a photographer who genuinely loves the places where your wedding might be set, whether that’s at Cissbury Barns, Highley Manor, Fitzlelroi Barn, or any of the venues I’ve had the pleasure of shooting at over the years.
My photography philosophy: relaxed, unposed, real
I don’t believe in spending an hour on couple portraits. I think the best wedding photos happen when you’re not thinking about the camera at all – when you’re laughing at a private joke, sneaking a kiss, or just soaking up the day. That’s what I’m there to catch.
My style is often called ‘documentary with a gentle nudge’. I’ll suggest a direction or a spot with nice light, but I’ll never force you into a pose that feels unnatural. If you’re awkward in front of the camera, that’s fine. I’ll help you relax, and within a few minutes you’ll forget I’m even there. Then the magic happens.
That relaxed vibe runs through everything I do. On my Instagram page, you’ll see the tagline: ‘Relaxed wedding photography for real couples who hate posing. No awkward photos – just real moments.’ It’s not just a slogan; it’s the core of how I work, whether your wedding is in a grand hotel in London, a rustic barn in Surrey, or a village hall in Hampshire.
What a typical photo session looks like
Here’s a little insight: after the ceremony and confetti, I’ll take you and your partner aside for just ten to twenty minutes. Yes, that’s it. We’ll find a good spot with natural light, I’ll give you a few simple cues (walk together, look at each other, have a quiet chat), and I’ll start clicking. The rest of the time I’m roaming the reception, capturing guests naturally, the speeches, the first dance – all the little moments that make your day unique. Later on if we have a gorgeous sun set, pouring with rain or you have sparklers we’ll take another 20 minutes to capture you both for those wall worthy photos.
This approach means you’re not missing your own party. You get beautiful, honest photos without spending hours posing.
Beyond weddings: schools, families, and events
Weddings are my main focus, but I also photograph school portraits, family shoots, and events (corporate and private). The same relaxed philosophy applies across the board. School photography, for example, doesn’t have to be stiff and formal. I use a quick, fun approach that puts children at ease, and parents can order prints easily through a QR code system I use. Schools in West Sussex and beyond have found it a simple, stress-free way to get great portraits.
Family photo shoots work the same way – no forced poses, just genuine connection. And for events, whether it’s a corporate party or a milestone celebration, I’m there to capture the energy without getting in the way.
Where I work
I’m based in Horsham, West Sussex. But I cover a huge area across the South of England and further afield. My regular coverage area includes London, Surrey, Hampshire, Kent, Oxfordshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Wiltshire, Sussex, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Devon, Somerset, the South East, and the South West. So whether your wedding is in a London cityscape or a Somerset barn, I can make it work.
I also travel to other parts of the UK for the right couples – just get in touch and we’ll talk logistics.
A little personality goes a long way
I’m often told that my sense of humour helps couples relax. I don’t take myself too seriously, and I think that comes across on the day. I’ll crack a joke, keep things light, and make sure you’re smiling for real, not because I told you to. My job is to make your day easier and more enjoyable, not add to the stress.
If you’re looking for a photographer who cares more about the story of your day than the technical perfection of a single pose, we’ll get on. I promise to deliver photos that make you feel something – not just look good.
Get in touch
If you’re planning a wedding and want to chat, I’d love to hear from you. Drop me a line at paul@pss-photography.co.uk or give me a call on 07917 826245. I’m happy to answer questions, discuss your venue, or just have a chat about what you’re looking for.
Pricing for wedding photography starts from £1000, and I offer packages that can be tailored to your day – with album add-ons available. The best way to get a full picture of what I offer is to check your date on my website. I photograph a limited number of weddings each year to ensure every couple gets my full attention, so early booking is a good idea.
I also shoot family portraits and events, so if you’re organising a celebration or want some relaxed family photos, get in touch. Same approach, different setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes your wedding photography different?
I focus on being relaxed and unposed. I don’t spend hours on formal portraits; instead, I capture real moments as they happen. Most of my couple sessions take less than twenty minutes, leaving you free to enjoy your wedding. It’s honest, natural photography for couples who don’t enjoy posing.
How much does a wedding package cost?
My wedding photography starts from £1000 although I do offer bespoke packages which could be less. If you only need a few hours still give me a call, I am with you. Packages vary depending on coverage length and any album upgrades you might want. The best way to get a precise quote is to contact me directly with your date and venue, and I’ll put together a tailored package that fits your needs.
Do you travel outside Sussex?
Yes, I cover most of the South of England including London, Surrey, Hampshire, Kent, Oxfordshire, and many other counties. I’ve also shot weddings in Devon, Somerset, and up into the Midlands. There’s no extra fee for travel within my usual coverage area, but longer distances may need a small surcharge – we can discuss that when you get in touch.
How should we prepare for the photo session on the day?
Just be yourselves. Don’t worry about poses or angles. Trust me to guide you, and relax. Wear clothes that make you feel good, and try not to overthink it. The best photos happen when you’re not trying to perform for the camera. I’ll handle the rest.
If any of this sounds like the approach you’ve been looking for, I’d be honoured to be part of your day. Get in touch, and let’s make some real memories together.