KENT WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
Hey, I’m James Grist – a fun-loving Kent Wedding Photographer capturing real love stories with heart and soul. I’m a Multi-Award Winning seasoned and super-passionate Documentary Wedding Photographer based right here in Kent, with a love for fun, creative, and totally non-traditional Documentary Wedding Photography. Whether you’re tying the knot in Kent, heading into the heart of London, or planning a wild destination affair, I’ll be there, camera in hand, ninja-style—snapping the magic without getting in your way.
Think real emotions, cheeky giggles, happy tears, and all the dance floor chaos.So if you’re looking for a Kent Wedding Photographer who’s more about connection than perfection—someone who’ll capture the joy, the tears, and all the dance floor madness—let’s make it happen.
DOCUMENTARY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY
Your wedding isn’t a photoshoot—it’s a celebration, and I’m here to document it in all its authentic glory. Based in the heart of Kent (but always up for an adventure!), I specialise in Creative, Documentary Wedding Photography across Kent, London, and beyond.
My approach is relaxed, fun, and unobtrusive. I’ll be there to tell your story with images that feel like you. I blend in with your guests (camera ninja-style), letting you enjoy your day while I quietly snap the magic unfolding.
As a Kent Wedding Photographer, Ive had the absolute joy of capturing couples wedding moments at some awesome wedding venues across Kent [ and beyond]. From rustic barns to elegant estates, Ive seen it all and thrown shapes at more than a few wedding receptions too.
Im lucky enough to be recommended photographer at some truly awesome kent wedding venues, and it's always a pleasure to return and shoot weddings at the following:
The Old Kent Barn , Hayne House , The Bell In Ticehurst , Pines Calyx , Lympne Castle , Winters Barns , Solton Manor & Knowlton Court to name a few. Whether you're planning something elegant, rustic, quirky or full on party mode. Drop me a message, let's have a great time!
Whether you’re planning something elegant, rustic, quirky or full-on party mode, chances are I’ve photographed there (or would love to!). Let’s make your venue shine and your story unforgettable
FEATURED ON
FUN, CREATIVE, RELAXED, STORY TELLER
RECENT REVIEWS
Joshua Jones
1 year ago
James is by far the best you can get for your wedding! He was incredible. Not just a photographer! He helped us all get ready, he made sure we were always looking our best, and he fit into the wedding party brilliantly. So many people told us how great he was and how much they enjoyed spending time with him. He made sure we weren’t taken away from the party too much for our own photos, which we really appreciated. He was very accommodating and even stayed a lot later than we expected. The pictures are incredible! If you’re not booking James, you’re doing something wrong!!
Joshua Jones
1 year ago
James is by far the best you can get for your wedding! He was incredible. Not just a photographer! He helped us all get ready, he made sure we were always looking our best, and he fit into the wedding party brilliantly. So many people told us how great he was and how much they enjoyed spending time with him. He made sure we weren’t taken away from the party too much for our own photos, which we really appreciated. He was very accommodating and even stayed a lot later than we expected. The pictures are incredible! If you’re not booking James, you’re doing something wrong!!
Graham Christian
1 year ago
You won't do better than Mr. Grist when it comes to a photographer. He shot our wedding photography way back in 2014 and was every bit the guy back then, who people in recent reviews talk about now.
Not just a photographer, but a guy who is kind, friendly, puts you at ease and thinks on his feet!
He recently agreed to complete a mini photoshoot for us as a family, over 10 years later. He was amazing with our little ones and once again captured the love between us as a couple and a family.
Stunning photos supplied by a genuine gentleman and fellow family man. Thank you so, so much James... We wish you and your family best wishes and continued success 😁
Not just a photographer, but a guy who is kind, friendly, puts you at ease and thinks on his feet!
He recently agreed to complete a mini photoshoot for us as a family, over 10 years later. He was amazing with our little ones and once again captured the love between us as a couple and a family.
Stunning photos supplied by a genuine gentleman and fellow family man. Thank you so, so much James... We wish you and your family best wishes and continued success 😁
Graham Christian
1 year ago
You won't do better than Mr. Grist when it comes to a photographer. He shot our wedding photography way back in 2014 and was every bit the guy back then, who people in recent reviews talk about now.
Not just a photographer, but a guy who is kind, friendly, puts you at ease and thinks on his feet!
He recently agreed to complete a mini photoshoot for us as a family, over 10 years later. He was amazing with our little ones and once again captured the love between us as a couple and a family.
Stunning photos supplied by a genuine gentleman and fellow family man. Thank you so, so much James... We wish you and your family best wishes and continued success 😁
Not just a photographer, but a guy who is kind, friendly, puts you at ease and thinks on his feet!
He recently agreed to complete a mini photoshoot for us as a family, over 10 years later. He was amazing with our little ones and once again captured the love between us as a couple and a family.
Stunning photos supplied by a genuine gentleman and fellow family man. Thank you so, so much James... We wish you and your family best wishes and continued success 😁
Danielle Denning
2 years ago
We could not recommend James enough, we had heard incredible things about this man and he did not disappoint. James is more than "just" a photographer, he is the person that made sure everything ran smoothly and on time. He brings the most perfect energy alongside his cameras and makes everyone feel at ease.
We didn't want a photographer that made us spend an abundance of time in front of the camera or a magnitude of staged shots. We wanted someone to capture the memories and parts that were true to the day that we may have otherwise missed and he did exactly that.
I am going to let the photos speak for themselves because they do a much better job than I do.
But just one final note -
Without James, our wedding just wouldn't have been the same.
We didn't want a photographer that made us spend an abundance of time in front of the camera or a magnitude of staged shots. We wanted someone to capture the memories and parts that were true to the day that we may have otherwise missed and he did exactly that.
I am going to let the photos speak for themselves because they do a much better job than I do.
But just one final note -
Without James, our wedding just wouldn't have been the same.
Danielle Denning
2 years ago
We could not recommend James enough, we had heard incredible things about this man and he did not disappoint. James is more than "just" a photographer, he is the person that made sure everything ran smoothly and on time. He brings the most perfect energy alongside his cameras and makes everyone feel at ease.
We didn't want a photographer that made us spend an abundance of time in front of the camera or a magnitude of staged shots. We wanted someone to capture the memories and parts that were true to the day that we may have otherwise missed and he did exactly that.
I am going to let the photos speak for themselves because they do a much better job than I do.
But just one final note -
Without James, our wedding just wouldn't have been the same.
We didn't want a photographer that made us spend an abundance of time in front of the camera or a magnitude of staged shots. We wanted someone to capture the memories and parts that were true to the day that we may have otherwise missed and he did exactly that.
I am going to let the photos speak for themselves because they do a much better job than I do.
But just one final note -
Without James, our wedding just wouldn't have been the same.
Helen Williams
2 years ago
James Grist is amazing. I would wholeheartedly recommend James to any potential client.
He was so warm and calming throughout our day and even during every one of my most bridezilla moments.
I met James at a wedding fair at The Bell and instantly liked his style. Throughout the booking process and the lead up, James was so chilled and listened to all my wants and worries.
James never felt like he was hired and I was his client, it was like he was one the family. He was just honestly so lovely.
He was incredibly helpful…..even ended up tying the my new husbands tie for him!
Had lots of tips throughout…..He was cheerful and funny and all the guests loved him.
My photos were exquisite and just simply everything I wished for.
I just don’t think you need to weigh up whether James Grist is the right photographer for your wedding. Let me tell you, he 1000000% is. Book him. Book him now.
He was so warm and calming throughout our day and even during every one of my most bridezilla moments.
I met James at a wedding fair at The Bell and instantly liked his style. Throughout the booking process and the lead up, James was so chilled and listened to all my wants and worries.
James never felt like he was hired and I was his client, it was like he was one the family. He was just honestly so lovely.
He was incredibly helpful…..even ended up tying the my new husbands tie for him!
Had lots of tips throughout…..He was cheerful and funny and all the guests loved him.
My photos were exquisite and just simply everything I wished for.
I just don’t think you need to weigh up whether James Grist is the right photographer for your wedding. Let me tell you, he 1000000% is. Book him. Book him now.
Helen Williams
2 years ago
James Grist is amazing. I would wholeheartedly recommend James to any potential client.
He was so warm and calming throughout our day and even during every one of my most bridezilla moments.
I met James at a wedding fair at The Bell and instantly liked his style. Throughout the booking process and the lead up, James was so chilled and listened to all my wants and worries.
James never felt like he was hired and I was his client, it was like he was one the family. He was just honestly so lovely.
He was incredibly helpful…..even ended up tying the my new husbands tie for him!
Had lots of tips throughout…..He was cheerful and funny and all the guests loved him.
My photos were exquisite and just simply everything I wished for.
I just don’t think you need to weigh up whether James Grist is the right photographer for your wedding. Let me tell you, he 1000000% is. Book him. Book him now.
He was so warm and calming throughout our day and even during every one of my most bridezilla moments.
I met James at a wedding fair at The Bell and instantly liked his style. Throughout the booking process and the lead up, James was so chilled and listened to all my wants and worries.
James never felt like he was hired and I was his client, it was like he was one the family. He was just honestly so lovely.
He was incredibly helpful…..even ended up tying the my new husbands tie for him!
Had lots of tips throughout…..He was cheerful and funny and all the guests loved him.
My photos were exquisite and just simply everything I wished for.
I just don’t think you need to weigh up whether James Grist is the right photographer for your wedding. Let me tell you, he 1000000% is. Book him. Book him now.
Lindsey Ranson
2 years ago
We cannot recommend James highly enough. In the run up to the wedding he was on hand to provide advice and reassurance, answering all of our questions and taking some of those pre-wedding concerns off our plate. On the day itself he blended in like one of the guests, whilst providing invaluable support (including knowing how to pin in a veil and sort all of the buttonholes for the guys!) The photos have come out perfectly, capturing all of the joy and special moments on the day. We have pictures that include all of our guests, providing a thorough and amazing set of memories of our day. We thoroughly recommend James and are hugely grateful for everything he did to make the day special.
Lindsey Ranson
2 years ago
We cannot recommend James highly enough. In the run up to the wedding he was on hand to provide advice and reassurance, answering all of our questions and taking some of those pre-wedding concerns off our plate. On the day itself he blended in like one of the guests, whilst providing invaluable support (including knowing how to pin in a veil and sort all of the buttonholes for the guys!) The photos have come out perfectly, capturing all of the joy and special moments on the day. We have pictures that include all of our guests, providing a thorough and amazing set of memories of our day. We thoroughly recommend James and are hugely grateful for everything he did to make the day special.
Maia Wade-Davies
2 years ago
James was amazing, he helped our wedding day run so smoothly - I cant believe the amount of people who commented on how great he was after the big day too! Thanks for our lovely photos and for telling the story to one of the biggest days in our life we can cherish forever.
Maia Wade-Davies
2 years ago
James was amazing, he helped our wedding day run so smoothly - I cant believe the amount of people who commented on how great he was after the big day too! Thanks for our lovely photos and for telling the story to one of the biggest days in our life we can cherish forever.
Emilia Pisano
2 years ago
I highly recommend James as a wedding photographer. From the moment we discovered his online portfolio, we were captivated by his unique style. On our wedding day, he seamlessly blended in with our family, making everyone feel comfortable and relaxed. His supportive and helpful nature truly enhanced our experience.
The photos he captured are stunning and beautifully document our special day. We received a lovely box containing our favourite 100 prints, along with all the images on a creative USB stick designed to look like a film roll. We couldn't be happier with his services. If you’re looking for a talented and personable photographer, look no further than James!
The photos he captured are stunning and beautifully document our special day. We received a lovely box containing our favourite 100 prints, along with all the images on a creative USB stick designed to look like a film roll. We couldn't be happier with his services. If you’re looking for a talented and personable photographer, look no further than James!
Emilia Pisano
2 years ago
I highly recommend James as a wedding photographer. From the moment we discovered his online portfolio, we were captivated by his unique style. On our wedding day, he seamlessly blended in with our family, making everyone feel comfortable and relaxed. His supportive and helpful nature truly enhanced our experience.
The photos he captured are stunning and beautifully document our special day. We received a lovely box containing our favourite 100 prints, along with all the images on a creative USB stick designed to look like a film roll. We couldn't be happier with his services. If you’re looking for a talented and personable photographer, look no further than James!
The photos he captured are stunning and beautifully document our special day. We received a lovely box containing our favourite 100 prints, along with all the images on a creative USB stick designed to look like a film roll. We couldn't be happier with his services. If you’re looking for a talented and personable photographer, look no further than James!
Sue Wickert
2 years ago
We were lucky enough to experience James’ expertise at my brother’s wedding and had no hesitation in booking him for ours. He is very easy going, nothing is too much trouble and had spare hair clips when needed. Also managed to conjure up forks & ice when requested! He fitted in well with all the guests.
Not only did James put our mind at ease at the pre-wedding meeting. His help & support throughout the entire day was above & beyond anything we could have imagined.
We would most definitely recommend to anyone wanting a relaxed but thorough photographer.
Not only did James put our mind at ease at the pre-wedding meeting. His help & support throughout the entire day was above & beyond anything we could have imagined.
We would most definitely recommend to anyone wanting a relaxed but thorough photographer.
Sue Wickert
2 years ago
We were lucky enough to experience James’ expertise at my brother’s wedding and had no hesitation in booking him for ours. He is very easy going, nothing is too much trouble and had spare hair clips when needed. Also managed to conjure up forks & ice when requested! He fitted in well with all the guests.
Not only did James put our mind at ease at the pre-wedding meeting. His help & support throughout the entire day was above & beyond anything we could have imagined.
We would most definitely recommend to anyone wanting a relaxed but thorough photographer.
Not only did James put our mind at ease at the pre-wedding meeting. His help & support throughout the entire day was above & beyond anything we could have imagined.
We would most definitely recommend to anyone wanting a relaxed but thorough photographer.
Ashley Russell
2 years ago
James came recommended to us through a friend who had used him for their wedding. This was by far the best recommendation we received. James came round for a pre wedding meeting where we discussed what we did and didn't want for the day and he definitely understood the assignment. From the moment James arrived in the morning to the moment he left he was a dream. He went above and beyond his role of photographer and we have had countless compliments from our guests on how much he helped, not just me and my husband but everyone. He even managed to remember everybody's name and roles throughout the whole day! We have received our teaser shots and are beyond excited to see the rest. We couldn't recommend James enough!
Ashley Russell
2 years ago
James came recommended to us through a friend who had used him for their wedding. This was by far the best recommendation we received. James came round for a pre wedding meeting where we discussed what we did and didn't want for the day and he definitely understood the assignment. From the moment James arrived in the morning to the moment he left he was a dream. He went above and beyond his role of photographer and we have had countless compliments from our guests on how much he helped, not just me and my husband but everyone. He even managed to remember everybody's name and roles throughout the whole day! We have received our teaser shots and are beyond excited to see the rest. We couldn't recommend James enough!
Patrick Nell
2 years ago
James was probably the best booking we made for our wedding day. That includes the catering, the entertainment and the venue (all of which were brilliant). He provided an unbelievable service and a fantastic relaxed professionalism. Having not hosted a wedding before, nor hired a wedding planner, his contributions to the day were priceless. He had plenty of fantastic tips and most importantly, he treated our friends and family with the utmost respect. He handled tricky political issues between family members really well for things like photos. We had a pre wedding shoot because we were nervous about the thought of being photographed so much, and that was a dream as well! He was so supportive and we both feel he committed his everything to capturing us all at our best. Thank you, James.
Patrick Nell
2 years ago
James was probably the best booking we made for our wedding day. That includes the catering, the entertainment and the venue (all of which were brilliant). He provided an unbelievable service and a fantastic relaxed professionalism. Having not hosted a wedding before, nor hired a wedding planner, his contributions to the day were priceless. He had plenty of fantastic tips and most importantly, he treated our friends and family with the utmost respect. He handled tricky political issues between family members really well for things like photos. We had a pre wedding shoot because we were nervous about the thought of being photographed so much, and that was a dream as well! He was so supportive and we both feel he committed his everything to capturing us all at our best. Thank you, James.
The Redfords
2 years ago
It’s always a pleasure to work with James, so if you’re looking for a wedding photographer in Kent check out James and his work
The Redfords
2 years ago
It’s always a pleasure to work with James, so if you’re looking for a wedding photographer in Kent check out James and his work
Georgina Partridge
2 years ago
Wow James I don’t think my words can described how amazing you are! You are worth your weight in gold! You remembered everyone’s names, helped in anyway you could and were brilliant with the 13 children I had in my party! The photos are amazing and we cannot thank you enough for being a big part of our wedding day. I will recommend you to anyone and everyone over and over again. Thank you so much!
Georgina Partridge
2 years ago
Wow James I don’t think my words can described how amazing you are! You are worth your weight in gold! You remembered everyone’s names, helped in anyway you could and were brilliant with the 13 children I had in my party! The photos are amazing and we cannot thank you enough for being a big part of our wedding day. I will recommend you to anyone and everyone over and over again. Thank you so much!
Emily Smith
2 years ago
James captured our day perfectly. He honestly was the most fun, caring photographer to have. I extremely recommend James for anyone's special day. He took pictures of the most perfect moments and more. Felt very comfortable with James around and also had lots of fun!
Emily Smith
2 years ago
James captured our day perfectly. He honestly was the most fun, caring photographer to have. I extremely recommend James for anyone's special day. He took pictures of the most perfect moments and more. Felt very comfortable with James around and also had lots of fun!
Jessica Naylor
2 years ago
James was incredible - not just a brilliant photographer but practically a second coordinator for the day itself. Was so helpful and many guests commented on how great he was. The photos are beautiful, he knew all the right shots to take and catered how he would capture the day based on our preferences ie not too formal photo heavy! James thanks for being fantastic!
Jessica Naylor
2 years ago
James was incredible - not just a brilliant photographer but practically a second coordinator for the day itself. Was so helpful and many guests commented on how great he was. The photos are beautiful, he knew all the right shots to take and catered how he would capture the day based on our preferences ie not too formal photo heavy! James thanks for being fantastic!
Nathan Hudson
2 years ago
James was incredible from start to finish, the photos he captured were amazing- natural and professional. He made all of our guests feel so comfortable with his relaxed, friendly ways and he couldn’t do enough to help us all.
We highly recommend James as your Wedding photographer- you won’t be disappointed!!
We highly recommend James as your Wedding photographer- you won’t be disappointed!!
Nathan Hudson
2 years ago
James was incredible from start to finish, the photos he captured were amazing- natural and professional. He made all of our guests feel so comfortable with his relaxed, friendly ways and he couldn’t do enough to help us all.
We highly recommend James as your Wedding photographer- you won’t be disappointed!!
We highly recommend James as your Wedding photographer- you won’t be disappointed!!
Slickdogg_
3 years ago
Absolutely cannot fault James! He blended in so well to capture candid photos and fit in with our whole wedding party. We love our photos and got everything we could have wanted! Thanks so much James!
Already recommended to a friend and would recommend to anyone else!
Already recommended to a friend and would recommend to anyone else!
Slickdogg_
3 years ago
Absolutely cannot fault James! He blended in so well to capture candid photos and fit in with our whole wedding party. We love our photos and got everything we could have wanted! Thanks so much James!
Already recommended to a friend and would recommend to anyone else!
Already recommended to a friend and would recommend to anyone else!
Katie Bateman
3 years ago
We’d been lucky enough to attend several weddings that James photographed so very much thought we knew what to expect, however,
James absolutely blew us away.
Not only are our photos better than we ever could’ve imagined, when you book James as a photographer you’re getting so much more.
He was an integral part to the success of our day and it’s an understatement to say we couldn’t have done without him.
From reminding us to take the flowers out of the water, to ushering the guests to where they needed to be. He helped with the timings and ordering of the day and went as far as learning our guests names, everyone was so impressed and commented to us afterwards about how amazing he was.
The quality of our photos, the ease in which he made us feel on the day and the amount you receive are just phenomenal.
Words can’t describe how grateful we are, thank you so much James!
James absolutely blew us away.
Not only are our photos better than we ever could’ve imagined, when you book James as a photographer you’re getting so much more.
He was an integral part to the success of our day and it’s an understatement to say we couldn’t have done without him.
From reminding us to take the flowers out of the water, to ushering the guests to where they needed to be. He helped with the timings and ordering of the day and went as far as learning our guests names, everyone was so impressed and commented to us afterwards about how amazing he was.
The quality of our photos, the ease in which he made us feel on the day and the amount you receive are just phenomenal.
Words can’t describe how grateful we are, thank you so much James!
Katie Bateman
3 years ago
We’d been lucky enough to attend several weddings that James photographed so very much thought we knew what to expect, however,
James absolutely blew us away.
Not only are our photos better than we ever could’ve imagined, when you book James as a photographer you’re getting so much more.
He was an integral part to the success of our day and it’s an understatement to say we couldn’t have done without him.
From reminding us to take the flowers out of the water, to ushering the guests to where they needed to be. He helped with the timings and ordering of the day and went as far as learning our guests names, everyone was so impressed and commented to us afterwards about how amazing he was.
The quality of our photos, the ease in which he made us feel on the day and the amount you receive are just phenomenal.
Words can’t describe how grateful we are, thank you so much James!
James absolutely blew us away.
Not only are our photos better than we ever could’ve imagined, when you book James as a photographer you’re getting so much more.
He was an integral part to the success of our day and it’s an understatement to say we couldn’t have done without him.
From reminding us to take the flowers out of the water, to ushering the guests to where they needed to be. He helped with the timings and ordering of the day and went as far as learning our guests names, everyone was so impressed and commented to us afterwards about how amazing he was.
The quality of our photos, the ease in which he made us feel on the day and the amount you receive are just phenomenal.
Words can’t describe how grateful we are, thank you so much James!
Helen Davis & Charles King
3 years ago
We knew we were in safe hands with James as at least 2 of our friends had used him for their weddings but he really is a pro and amazing at what he does! The day ran so smoothly and a lot of that was down to James. From first online meeting, to pre wedding catch up, he listened to what was important to us and we are so pleased with the amazing photos he took to remember the day. Can’t recommend him enough and thank you for all you did on the day- especially working with 2 boisterous Labradors!
Helen Davis & Charles King
3 years ago
We knew we were in safe hands with James as at least 2 of our friends had used him for their weddings but he really is a pro and amazing at what he does! The day ran so smoothly and a lot of that was down to James. From first online meeting, to pre wedding catch up, he listened to what was important to us and we are so pleased with the amazing photos he took to remember the day. Can’t recommend him enough and thank you for all you did on the day- especially working with 2 boisterous Labradors!
CHECK OUT My Wedding Articles Below
FOLLOW MY ADVENTURES ON INSTAGRAM
⚡️Huge Congratulations⚡️ To Frank & Georgie For Tying The Knot On Saturday At The Moat, Wrotham. Pleasure Working With You Both 📸
Hey Folks,
Just a quick update — we’re excited to introduce our new Leather-Bound Print Boxes! These will be replacing the wooden boxes we’ve used in the past, and we can’t wait for you to see them.
Hey Folks, Il Be At The Bell 🔔 In Ticehurst Wedding Show On Sunday. If You Need A Relaxed Candid Photographer, Come And Say Hi 👋🏻
⚡️Huge Congratulations⚡️To Matt & Harley For Tying The Knot At The Bell 🔔 In Ticehurst. 📸
⚡️Huge Congratulations⚡️ To Matt & Maddy Who Tied The Knot Saturday At The Oak Barn Frame Farm. 📸
Huge Congratulations To Martin & Wendy Who Tied The Knot At The Vines Of Rochester. What A Great Chilled Day! 📸
Huge Congratulations To Jacob & Leonie Who Tied The Knot At The Old Kent Barn. Pleasure Working With You Both 📸
Award Winning Documentary Kent Wedding Photographer James Grist Photography
