Owen Howells Photography: Blog

Jessie & George @ Fforest, Ceredigion

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 19:00:00 GMT

If you want the blueprint on how to throw an all out sensational wedding party then look no further!

George and Jessie, two absolute legends in their own right, created a day which which was spectacular & wildly entertaining yet also emotional, tender & heartfelt. The photos speak for themselves...all 500+ that I delivered for them, needless to say I was kept very busy for the 10 hours I was with them...everywhere I looked there was something happening that deserved photo.

Everything took place at the truly spectacular Fforest Weddings, an ethereal wedding venue with almost unlimited photo opportunities, one of my absolute favourites for photography

Feast your eyes on this lot...

If you are planning a Fforest wedding and would like to discuss booking me for your photography please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Korey & Rebecca - Spectacular Castle Wedding @ Manorbier

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 19:00:00 GMT

I don't need as second invite to shoot a wedding at Manorbier Castle, it's an absolute beauty of a venue just 6 miles from my house! Korey, Rebecca & their guests travelled a fair bit further for their wedding day though as they're currently living in Florida, with friends & family from Australia as well all over the UK. The big distances travelled were entirely worth it...blessed by springtime sunshine (well, 99% of the day!) Korey & Rebecca's day was truly unforgetable, being both spectacular yet very relaxed, with low key vibe. Everything took place within the castle, from bridal prep in the rustic cottage, to the ceremony in the beautiful, lightly restored main room followed by a marque reception on the lawn. Take a look at these amazing pics to see just how good a manorbier castle wedding can be!

Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer Manorbier Castle Wedding Photographer

I worked alongside the following suppliers, all of whom contributed brilliantly towards Korey & Rebecca's special day.
Venue: Manorbier Castle
Videographer: Inspire Weddings
Dress: Timeless Elegance Bridal
Catering: Holdens Wedding Catering
Flowers: By the Sea Flowers
Make-up: Simone Bowen MUA
Hair: Laura Alice Kirkby

If you are planning a Manorbier Castle wedding and would like to discuss booking me for your photography please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Wedding Photography at Stackpole Walled Gardens

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 19:01:00 GMT

Maybe I'm biased, but I think the patch of land south of Pembroke towards the sea is one of the beautiful places in the world, so I was very excited to book Will & Laura's wedding at Stackpole Church and Stackpole Walled Gardens. This mid summer wedding was perfectly styled, complementing a great looking bridal party and the incredible scenery that surrounded them. Aside from the relentless camera fodder at every minute of the day, this wedding gets credit for it's wonderful, breezy vibe attributed to a fun loving Bride & Groom and their fantastic guests, clearly evident in all the photos.

If you are planning a Stackpole walled wedding and would like to discuss booking me for your photography please don't hesitate to get in touch.

More information on my wedding photography services are available here

Natasha & Martin - Coastal, Woodland Wedding @ St Ishmaels Church & Monkhaven Manor

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 19:00:00 GMT

It's hard to think of a more idyllic setting than Monk Haven Manor. As if it's beautiful grounds and surrounding woodland weren't enough on their own, there is also a picture perfect medieval church and secluded beach right next door. It's a wedding photographers dream.

On this day I had the pleasure of the company of Natasha & Martin (& Maggie, the cheeky retriever who spent the day trying to jump in the stream and eventually succeeded!). After a intimate service in St Ishmaels church, Martha & Netisha (no that's not a typo, that's who the vicar apparently married) joined their guests in a sunny reception in the Monk Haven grounds. Breaking with tradition, Natasha and Martin chose to have their first dance early, and outside, which set the scene for a festival vibe for the rest of the day.

One final highlight in the evening was a trip to the beautiful little beach for photos, followed by stone skimming and a big group shot with a YouTubing pirate who seemed to appear out of nowhere (you couldn't make this day up!)

If you are planning a Monkhaven Manor wedding and would like to discuss booking me for your photography please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Outdoor Ceremony at The Grove of Narberth, Pembrokeshire

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 19:00:00 GMT

A little glimpse into Aroon & Holly's intimate late afternoon ceremony at The Grove, Narberth in Pembrokeshire. Breaking with tradition, Holly & Aroon arrived together for their wedding blessing in the immaculate springtime grounds of The Grove hotel. The whole event had an incredibly relaxed feel, with outdoor speeches, games of cricket and Holly's stunningly styled, alternative bridal wear. In the evening things heated up with an outdoor paella followed by an energetic dance floor, fuelled by live drummers. To top off an already fantastic evening, our 15 minutes away for photos was blessed with a picture perfect sunset over the Preseli hills.

If you are planning a wedding at The Grove and would like to discuss booking me for your photography please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Summer cliff-top wedding photography at The Cliff Hotel, Ceredigion

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 19:15:00 GMT

Around 2 days before a wedding I sometimes get a message from Sally White of White Bride excitedly telling me I'm photographing one of her brides this weekend and how amazing she looks. It's always a good sign, because her clients are always impeccably dressed with perfectly styled weddings and this one was no exception. Combine this with a stunning location, metres from the cliffs in Cardigan Bay, and an atmospheric sea mist to diffuse the summer sun and you've got perfect conditions for an incredible set of wedding photos. Enjoy

The Cliff Hotel - Ceredigion

Musical themed spectacular - Wedding Photography at Cardeeth Farm

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 19:00:00 GMT

Sarah & Paul's wedding day stands out with it's unique styling, impeccable attention to detail and musical entertainment. From bagpipes on entrance, male voice choir in the church, rockabilly band in the early part of the reception and an all out party band in the night, there wasn't a moment the day was without a soundtrack. Even the table names were rock bands on vinyl! Of course the real stars of the day were Sarah & Paul themselves. Paul looking sharp in full military uniform with numerous medals, and Sarah going all out with her stunning Heart Aflutter Bridal gown. The guests too deserve a mention, matching Sarah & Paul's infectious energy and keeping the party lively throughout the evening.

The ceremony took place at Carew Cheriton Church, and reception at the fabulous Cardeeth Farm near Carew.

Looking for a wedding photographer at Cardeeth Farm? Please get in touch to check availability.

Wedding Photography @ Villa Teloni, Italy

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 09:00:00 GMT

What treat to be invited out to Italy to capture Sharnie & Sonny's special day at Villa Teloni. The promise of bathing in East coast Italian sun didn't quite come to fruition, with monsoon-like rain storms throughout the day. Thankfully the rain held back at key moments, meaning they could have their dream ceremony outdoors, overlooking the nearby Italian vineyards.

Festival style wedding in Damerham, Hampshire - Dai & Laura

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 10:45:00 GMT

I think this goes down as one of the most laid back, fun weddings I've ever shot. Dai & Laura are just the two most easy going people, who created this epic yet very relaxed festival style wedding right at home on their local village green.

While it may have been relaxed on the day, it was clear "The Rocks' had been very busy in planning, as thestyling and little touches were beautifully crafted to make the day extra special. I particularly loved the stunning split screen camper, groomsmen with skateboards, and the incredible willow tree we used as part of their couple portraits.

Woodhouse Barn Wedding Photography - Sean & Hannah

Sun, 16 Jan 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Sean & Hannah's beautiful barn wedding with a carefully styled vintage theme to match. Both ceremony & reception took place on the Woodhouse Barn site, meaning more time for the bride & groom to take in the glorious weather and enjoy the day. In the evening we were blessed with a glorious golden hour, which we took advantage of with couple photos in front of the rustic backdrops and vintage cars.

Winter Wedding Photography at Pencoed House, Cardiff - Geraint & Sarah

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 11:44:15 GMT

It's always a pleasure to see Pembroke School friends, so I was delighted when Sarah asked me to come to Cardiff to photograph her wedding with fiancé Geraint. I arrived in the morning to their impeccably decorated terraced house, which gave lots of opportunities for bridal prep photos. A vintage double decker bus transported Sarah, family & her bridesmaids to the ceremony at Ararat Baptist Church. After an intimate ceremony, with an rousing soundtrack from the Bridgend Male voice choir, Sarah & Geraint and the whole wedding party reboarded the bus to Pencoed House Estate. It was my first visit to Pencoed, and I was treated to an beautiful setting to do my work as well as a stunning 3 course meal during the wedding breakfast. Some heartfelt and emotional speeches were followed by a fireworks display and the first dance, kicked off by an enigmatic band. What a cracking day this was, the styling was spot on and an excellent example of how a winter wedding should be done!

Beautiful Outdoor Ceremony at Slebech Park - Harvey & Amber

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 23:30:00 GMT

Slebech Park is without doubt one of Pembrokeshire's premier wedding venues, and the option to have an outdoor ceremony in the ruined chapel makes it even more spectacular. Harvey & Amber's dodged the few showers floating around that day and had the perfect ceremony oudoors, followed by romantic couple photos in the grounds and an all out party that won't be forgotten in a long time!

See this beauty of a wedding unfold below

New Gallery Added - Photography at glamping sites and unusual accommodation

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 07:47:47 GMT

Since being introduced to the Canopy and Stars team back in 2017 I've been incredibly lucky to go on assignment in some of Britain's most spectacular rural escapes, as well as travelling abroad to some of their European locations.

My goal when working on glamping sites is not just to photograph what the place looks like, but to capture some of the atmosphere and experience of staying in these wonderful destinations, as well as the character of the space itself. All of these amazing spaces are available to stay, so I've included photograph links below should any take your interested, just hit the photo to be taken to their page on Canopy & Stars:

Dabinett Treehouse, Somerset

Castaway, Monmouthshire Wildwood - Somerset Ekopod, Cornwall The Rooks Nook, Herefordshire Dragons Cruck, Powys Cwtch Camping, Pembrokeshire Elsie May, Devon The Little Retreat, Pembrokeshire

New Gallery Added - Industrial Photography

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 10:28:29 GMT

Being based so close to one of Britains busiest industrial waterways means a great to deal of my work is based in industry. To demonstrate my vast experience working in these kind of environments I've created an new gallery dedicated to such work.

Aerial/Drone Photography Gallery Updated

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 09:35:45 GMT

Just updated the gallery of aerial images with some of my latest work.

Below are a few examples of the drone in use on assignments in 2020.

Aerial image of Milford Haven marina. Part of a series of images to capture the new Christmas lights, as well as marketing the marina as a tourism destination during the festive season.

Tourism Photography with a Drone

This capture was taken during a glamping photoshoot for one of Canopy & Stars' destinations. The elevated perspective not only creates a striking composition, but also illustrates the cabins location in the surrounding area.

Paraiso Escondido captured on another Canopy & Stars assignment, this time in Southern Portugal

This photo shows the proximity of the curved Bombora office buildings in relation to the industrial sites where their wave energy devices are manufactured.

Wedding Photography at Sylen Lakes, Carmarthenshire - Darren & Anwen

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 13:45:00 GMT

This was my first time photographing a wedding at Sylen Lakes. As with all venues I'm not familiar with, I popped out the day before to scope out potential photo opportunities and to make sure I knew how to get the best out of it. Similarly with their chosen stop off for couple and group shots at Bury Port.

The day began at Anwen's parents house, where she and her entourage of bridemaids made their final preparations for the wedding. Anwen travelling in style, taking the gorgeous soft top MG to the service, driven by her Dad with the roof down to make the most of the sunny weather. In the meantime a classic double decker bus transported the bridesmaids and family, setting up a party atmosphere for the day. After the service we headed for Bury Port, taking full advantage of the picturesque lighthouse and seaside views for the couple and group shots, helped by an enthusiastic bridal party!

Finally all guests arrived at Sylen Lakes to finish off the day with wedding breakfast, speeches, first dance and one final photo opportunity with golden light falling around the lakes.

Site update - Restaurant & Food photography in Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 09:52:00 GMT

Pembrokeshire is seeing a huge resurgence in excellent quality dining, with new venues popping up as well as long term establishments getting a new injection of life. It has been fantastic over the past few years to work with some incredibly talented and enthusiastic restaurateurs in updating their imagery. The aim of our shoots has always been more than simply to display what's on offer, but instead create images that immerse the potential customers in the atmosphere of the establishment.

https://www.owenhowellsphotography.co.uk/food_restaurant_photographer_pembrokeshire_wales

A few of the fantastic establishments I've worked with this year:

Cellar Bar at Qube

Twelve Canteen & Wine Bar

Castlemead Hotel

Tom & Ffion - Wedding Photography at Lawrenny Church & The Old Castle Site

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 09:19:00 GMT

Tom & Ffion's unique DIY wedding in the small rural village of Lawrenny was the first to take place on the The Old Castle Site. Better known as the venue for The Big Retreat Festival, this stunning spot made the perfect setting for Tom & Ffion's special day. With Ffion's bridal preparations, the church and reception all taking place within 500 metres there was no need for wedding transport, just a short stroll in the sunshine (and briefly in the rain). There was such a happy, relaxed atmosphere throughout the day, all the while surrounded by the stunning surroundings and some of the lovely details and touches that Tom & Ffion had created. Gorgeous greens dominated the colour scheme and featured on the individually fitted bridesmaid dresses (and jumpsuit) as well as the groomsmen's ties and throughout the marquee. Ffion's figure hugging silk gown by Suzanne Neville was complimented with a huge bouquet of wild flowers, natural makeup, braided hair with gypsophila and a full length veil.

Will & Kate - Wedding Photography at Florin, Llanarth, Ceredigion

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 09:19:00 GMT

Kate & Will, along with many of their guests, travelled all the way from Sydney to celebrate their marriage in the idyllic grounds of Florin House in Llanarth. While the weather wasn't quite up to Australian standards, the rain held off just enough for everyone make the most of a stunning outdoor ceremony and reception.

In the morning Kate’s wedding preparations were made in the luxurious surroundings of the master bedroom, twinned with one of the most spectacular bathrooms I’ve ever seen! Kate's show stopping dress was by the amazing Ukrainian designer Oksana Mukha, which she complemented with a cathedral length veil, beautiful bouquet of flowers and gypsophila in her hair. As a photographer I was spoilt for choice, as next door there was another huge bedroom with large windows, plus the grand stair case on the way to the ceremony.

Meanwhile Will, the groom, had been suiting up in the stylish grass fronted garden house, which made for a relaxing environment as he and his best man put the final touches to their clothing and wrote a few extra lines in their speeches.
Despite a light rain shower, the intimate outdoor ceremony went ahead as planned, with a few tears and a lot laughs at Will & Kate’s personal vows to each other.

After the ceremony it was time for a few formal(ish) pictures with the beautiful and varied backdrops at Florin before guests could begin to let their hair down and enjoy the party atmosphere at Ceredigion’s most exclusive wedding venue.

Take a look at the pics below to watch this absolute beauty of a wedding day unfold...