Wedding Photographer at Rackleys, The Chilterns

Rackleys is a venue with real character. Set amongst the Chiltern Hills, it has a relaxed, rural feel that suits couples looking for something warm, sociable and unpretentious. Rackleys is impeccable, this is evident in the attention to detail shown in the decor & styling. It’s elegantly rustic & all about the atmosphere, connection and couples enjoying the day exactly as it unfolds.

I photograph weddings at Rackleys regularly and know the venue well. I understand how the spaces work together, where the light falls, and how the day naturally flows from one part to the next. That familiarity allows me to work quietly and confidently, capturing real moments without interrupting the rhythm of the day.

One of my recent Rackleys weddings was also featured in Your Bucks, Berks & Oxon Wedding Magazine, an absolute privilege to see the wedding given 4 pages as well as featuring in the editors insight feature.

Why Rackleys is such a loved wedding venue.

The Retreat combines historic charm with stylish & contemporary comfort, making it a versatile space that works beautifully for weddings in all seasons.

Couples love it for:

• Its peaceful countryside setting & outstanding views over the North Wessex Downs.

• The relaxed flow between ceremony, drinks and afternooon & evening receptions.

• Light-filled interiors that feel warm and inviting with a touch of quintessential british quirkiness.

• The Retreat’s knack for easy-going luxury & welcoming atmosphere that puts guests at ease.

It’s a venue where people settle in quickly which makes a huge difference to how natural their wedding photography feels.

Getting ready at Rackleys.

• The getting-ready spaces feel relaxed and informal.

• Natural window light works beautifully for quiet prep moments.

• There’s room to move without feeling crowded.

• The morning tends to unfold at an easy, unhurried pace.

• Separate area for breakfast, coffee, all of you & your wedding parties important stuff.

I photograph this part of the day quietly, focusing on the real moments conversations, laughter, nerves and anticipation as much as possible with very little directing or staging.

Staying onsite at the Rackleys Farmhouse.

Staying overnight in the Rackleys Farmhouse adds a real sense of ease and continuity to the wedding day. Waking up the morning after surrounded by close family & friends & sharing breakfast together around the huge table in the sunny kitchen ovelooking that amazing view of the Chilterns is so special. You don’t have to book it & if you don’t, rest assured that it won’t be booked out to anyone else during your wedding day. I love the unlimited tea & coffee refills & the individually themed bedrooms. The cute little balcony terrace nestled in between the eaves is perfect for taking in the views & quiet moments of reflection.

Photographing weddings at Rackleys, The Chilterns.

Rackleys lends itself perfectly to a calm, documentary approach to wedding photography. The venue doesn’t suit rigid schedules or heavily posed photography and that’s very much part of its charm.

I focus on:

• The expressions & joy as guests arrive and explore the grounds.

• Natural reactions during the ceremony of the guests in the background.

• The details & decor that make Rackleys individul to each couple.

• Unscripted moments during drinks and speeches.

• The energy of the evening once the barn fills up for the evening party.

When I step in for group photos or couple portraits  the space ensures it’s brief, relaxed and efficient, so you’re never away from your guests for long.

Photography locations at Rackleys.

 Rackleys has been designed to give photographs a variety of backdrops, at all times of the year & all within easy reach of your wedding party.

Some of my favourite photography spots include:

• The beautifully landscaped grounds, which work brilliantly for relaxed portraits

• The car park area, which may sound surprising but offers lovely open space, texture and light particularly later in the day.

• The wildflower meadow, which gives stunning views out across the surrounding Chiltern Hills and feels especially special in the warmer months

• Quiet edges of the grounds that allow you a moment together without feeling staged such as the driveway.

Because everything is close by, portraits never need to feel like a production, just a short wander together looking for pockets of great light.

The barn mezzanine & ceremony flow.

The barn at Rackleys has a wonderful flow after the ceremony. One of my favourite moments is when couples head up to the mezzanine & with a glass of bubbly in hand, can wave to their guests below.

It’s a lovely pause in the day:

• Guests naturally gather and look up.

• Couples get a moment to breathe together.

• It creates a joyful, celebratory atmosphere.

From there, guests move outside ready for the confetti walk, while the couple can take a short moment to themselves before re-joining the celebrations. It works beautifully both practically and photographically.

A recommended wedding photographer at Rackleys.

I’m proud to be a recommended supplier at Rackleys, and I love working with the fabulous team there.

That familiarity means:

• Smooth transitions throughout the day.

• No guesswork around layout or timing.

• Calm & seamless adaptation if plans shift.

• One less thing for you to think about.

Real weddings at Rackleys, The Chilterns.

No two weddings at Rackleys feel the same, but they often share a similar energy of being sociable, relaxed and full of character.

From countryside garden party celebrations to evenings that spill out into the barn and beyond, it’s a venue that suits couples who care more about atmosphere than formality.

👉 View a real wedding photographed at Rackleys, The Chilterns

Natural, honest wedding photography.

My editing style keeps colours natural and true to life. Nothing is over-processed or trend-led, just gentle, consistent tones that reflect the atmosphere of the day.

My aim is always to create photographs that still feel right years from now. Timeless images that bring you back to how your wedding felt, not just how it looked.

Planning your wedding at Rackleys, The Chilterns.

A few helpful notes if you’re planning your day here:

• Rackleys works beautifully for full-day coverage, especially with the onsite prep, ceremony & reception locations.

• Group photos are best taken outside. One of my favourite locations is in front of the Espalier trees.

• The short walk over to the barn for the ceremony provides lovely natural photography opportunities.

• Staying in the Farmhouse adds continuity to the day.

• The driveway & car park is amazing for portraits !

Getting married at Rackleys, The Chilterns?

Emma

We can’t thank you enough for capturing our special day so beautifully. Your talent and professionalism truly made a difference, and we’re thrilled with the memories you’ve created for us. Each photo tells a story, and we are grateful for your hard work and creativity.
We highly recommend you to everyone that needs a great photographer.

Thank you once again!

Nick and Sam

There’s no pressure,  just an honest conversation to see whether we’re the right fit.