A Colourful, Family Centric Wedding at Woodlands Hotel, Leeds.

Ally & Dan | Documentary Wedding Photography at Woodlands Hotel.

As a documentary style wedding photographer, I’m always drawn to weddings that centre around connection, family and real emotion. When Ally asked me to photograph her wedding I knew straight away I was in for a treat. Ally and Dan’s colourful, romantic wedding at Woodlands Hotel in Leeds, Yorkshire was a beautiful celebration of not just their love for one another – but of the family they’ve created together.

With children at the heart of the day, their wedding felt relaxed, joyful and deeply personal from start to finish.

A Relaxed, Documentary Wedding Morning at Woodlands Hotel.

The morning at Woodlands Hotel unfolded calmly, with plenty of laughter amongst Ally, her friends and her sisters. Cuddles and playful moments came in abundance as Ally’s daughters arrived, and rather than feel restricted by the timelines or trying to force staged moments, Ally and her friends chose to simply be present, the perfect recipe for documentary wedding photography.

The children drifted in and out of the room, full of excitement, adding a magical energy (and a little chaos) to the morning.

When Ally later saw the photographs, she summed it up perfectly : “The children look like little fairys” These are the moments I love the most – genuine, fleeting, and impossible to recreate.

A Colourful and Romantic Outdoor Ceremony Surrounded by Family.

The ceremony itself was emotional, intimate and full of warmth. Ally and Dan were joined by their closest family and friends, with their children playing an important role in the day – a true reflection of what matters most to them. (and who else can you put in charge of bubble machines really?!)

Soft colours, romantic details and the beautiful Yorkshire sunlight made the outdoor ceremony at Woodlands Hotel a truly magical setting for this family-centric wedding. As a documentary wedding photographer in Leeds, my focus was on the laughter, proud smiles, little glances and the tender moments shared between Ally, Dan, their children and loved ones – all captured naturally as it unfolded.

Heartfelt Speeches and a Magical Evening

The speeches were a truly special highlight of the day. Dan didn’t do a groom’s speech (you absolutely don’t have to do anything you don’t want to, it’s your day!) but Ally was completely surprised when her sister and close friends stood up to share their love, memories and funny stories. The room was full of laughter, happy tears, and heartfelt emotion – a perfect reflection of the family centric vibe of the day.

Moment’s like this – unscripted, joyful and full of connection – are exactly why I love documentary wedding photography.

From the playful antics of the children to the quiet glances between Ally and Dan, the day flowed seamlessly from ceremony to evening, gibing everyone a chance to fully enjoy the magic of the wedding.

Natural, Playful Moments Throughout the Day

One of the things I loved most about photographing at Woodlands Hotel is how relaxed and welcoming the space is. The inside is modern, sophisticated and inviting with a soft neutral colour scheme that would fit any kind of styling. But where I feel it really excels is the outdoor space, a large patio area perfect for evening food, a secret garden and large lawn. Perfect for children and adults alike.

Ally and Dan spent the day laughing with their guests, playing with their children and soaking in every moment – which always leads to the most meaningful photographs.

When they received their gallery, Ally shared:
“Oh Christa, these are perfect, I can’t stop looking at them”
“You’ve captured our day perfectly, the children look like little fairies!”
“Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!”

Why Documentary Wedding Photography Works So Well for Family Weddings

Ally and Dan’s wedding shows why documentary photography is such a great fit for family-focused, outdoor celebrations. By letting the day unfold naturally, I was able to capture:

• Genuine family interactions
• Children being completely themselves
• Emotional, unrepeatable moments
• The playful, colourful energy of the day

If you’re planning a relaxed, family-centric wedding in Leeds or Yorkshire, documentary wedding photography allows you to enjoy your day fully while every meaningful moment is preserved.

Planning a Wedding at Woodlands Hotel, Leeds?

If you’re getting married at Woodlands Hotel or planning a romantic, outdoor wedding anywhere in Yorkshire, I’d love to hear from you. I’m a Leeds wedding photographer specialising in documentary wedding photography, capturing real moments with honesty, warmth, and heart.

Get in touch to check availability and tell me about your plans.

FAQs – Woodlands Hotel & Leeds Wedding Photography

Is Woodlands Hotel a good venue for family-friendly weddings?

Yes — Woodlands Hotel is a fantastic choice for family-centric weddings. Its outdoor spaces are perfect for children and guests to enjoy a relaxed, joyful celebration.

Do you photograph weddings in Leeds and Yorkshire?

Absolutely. I’m a Leeds based wedding photographer and regularly photograph weddings across Leeds, Yorkshire, and surrounding areas.

What is documentary wedding photography?

Documentary wedding photography focuses on real moments rather than posed images. It allows couples to enjoy their wedding day naturally while genuine emotions, interactions, and memories are captured as they happen.

Ready to Capture Your Wedding?

If you’re planning a wedding in Leeds, Yorkshire, or at Woodlands Hotel, I’d love to hear your story. Whether your day is intimate, colourful, playful, or full of heartfelt moments, I specialise in documentary wedding photography that captures your day exactly as it unfolds.

Check availability and book your wedding photography today — let’s make sure every smile, tear, and magical moment is preserved forever.

👉 Contact me now to secure your date.