Nicole & Danny’s Engagement shoot

Last September I had the absolute pleasure of capturing an engagement shoot at Hadleigh Castle for Nicole & Danny. Their wedding will take place in August this year and they wanted some photos taken to announce their engagement and to use them as save the date cards.

I always recommend having an engagement shoot, especially if you are shy in front of the camera, as it allows you to ‘practice’ and get some confidence ahead of your big day. It is also so nice to be able to meet you in person prior to your wedding day and get to know each other better! I actually offer an engagement shoot in my third wedding package or I can do this separately if you haven’t got any wedding plans yet.

We decided to go to Hadleigh Castle in Essex at 5pm in early September because of the beautiful views. 5pm was the perfect time because we got great natural light as well as it being a quieter time of day. 

There were a few dog walkers we came across but other than that we pretty much had the whole space to ourselves. We got to meet these two cheeky dogs who wanted to take part in the photoshoot! 

History of Hadleigh Castle

In 1215 King John gave this area of land, known as the manor of Hadleigh, to Hubert de Burgh, his chief minister. Hubert built this large turreted castle in the 1230s as a statement of his power. However, his successful career came to an end after quarrels with the king, and he was forced to return his lands, including Hadleigh in 1239.

The castle remained in royal hands, but it was not until the time of Edward II, nearly 100 years later, that the king began to use the castle as a royal residence.

Today the romantic ruins of this royal castle look out over the Essex marshes. 

I would definitely recommend visiting Hadleigh Castle as there is so much history there, it was also the perfect spot to have an engagement shoot. We had so much fun walking around and taking in the breathtaking views. 

Get in touch if you’d like to arrange an engagement shoot with me!