Q: I’m not very comfortable having my photo taken.

Honestly, neither am I.

But there is one thing you need to know: every couple that you see on my website is a real couple, and nearly every single one of them started by telling me that they weren’t comfortable in front of the camera.

The same wonderful couples would then email me back in shock after the wedding day, telling me that having their photos taken were some of the most enjoyable and fun moments from the whole day. A real highlight.

Everybody looks good when they’re relaxed, comfortable and having fun.

I help to make that happen, above all else. I give gentle direction, without imposing myself on your day. I let moments happen naturally.

There is often a point during which everyone forgets I am there at all.

I become a guest, a friend.

Q: Do you shoot digital only or do you also shoot on film?

Both! I am lucky enough to have grown up photographing on film, and have included it as part of my coverage my whole career. It is now a popular add-on and something I have decades of experience with. My optional 35mm film coverage adds about 50-70 additional images on film into your final gallery.

I also shoot full hybrid digital, 35mm and medium format film on commission. This option requires two photographers, with a talented associate taking care of digital coverage while I shoot the full day on film, in both 35mm and medium format. Please get in touch with me to discuss if that’s something you are interested in.

Q: Do you offer albums?

A: I work with the extremely talented Australian album makers to offer beautiful Matte Art hand-bound albums in lots of different sizes and configurations. All albums are designed in house by me, and unlimited revisions are offered.

Q: How would you describe your photographic style?

A: My approach with wedding photography focuses on the in-between, and I believe it is important for photographs to be honest and meaningful, as well as beautiful.

Whilst I do give gentle direction to get you comfortable, there are no poses, and importantly, no intrusion in the intimacy and joy of a wedding day.

My approach translates to images that are relaxed, full of warmth and emotion. Taking the time to ensure you can both enjoy each others’ company is also a very important priority of mine. I like to make sure you both have time to unwind and be present, even if that means prioritising it over photography.

Q: How do I get in touch?

A: Go to the "Contact" page and fill out your details, or email me directly at hello (at) oliverhartley.studio.

I will contact you within 24 hours (usually faster!) to confirm availability, and answer any questions you might have.

When I respond I’ll suggest a time for a chat or catch up so I can get to know more about you and your plans.

Q: What is the end result?

A: For a full day wedding, about 600-800 carefully edited photographs (usually more). If you choose to include 35mm film, an additional 70-100 photos on 35mm film as well.

About 6-8 weeks after the wedding day, I will send you a link to your secure online gallery. You can share the link with anybody.

If you opted for an album, I will prepare a draft album layout for you to approve after your photos are ready. Once we have the final revision, it will be sent off to the printers and when it's ready it will be shipped directly to your door.

Q: Do I get full resolution photos?

A: Yes. You get files big enough to put on a billboard (if that’s your thing!)

You can download all the photos from your online gallery in full resolution in two clicks. Then you can take them to get printed anywhere.

Q: Do I get every single photo taken?

A: No. The (second) most important part of my job begins in the editing room. I take between 4-6,000 photos at a wedding, and from those photos I only choose the best ones.

My job is to pick the key moments - and I find that delivering lots of photos of the same moment, rather than picking out one or two of the best, can detract from the experience.

My aim is for you to end up with lots of beautiful photos of different moments that you can enjoy from beginning to end as a reflection of your day.

Q: Are you LGBQTIA+ friendly?

A: Absolutely YES. I am a proud and vocal supporter of marriage equality and the recognition of non-binary gender identities. I also help LGBQTIA+ couples find ally vendors as part of my services.