The Church Wedding of Hannah and Josh, Altrincham.

Hannah and Josh’s wedding in Altrincham was one of those days that quietly stays with you long after you’ve packed away the cameras. Set in a beautiful church tucked within the heart of the town, their ceremony took place during the height of the COVID restrictions—a time when weddings looked very different, yet somehow felt even more meaningful. With guest numbers limited and distancing measures in place, the atmosphere carried a sense of intimacy that you rarely experience at larger celebrations. Every moment felt intentional, every expression more visible, every connection more profound.

As guests arrived, you could sense both excitement and caution in equal measure. Family members approached one another with warm eyes rather than hugs, offering gentle waves, elbow bumps, and smiles hidden behind masks. Despite the restrictions, there was no shortage of emotion. In fact, the smaller gathering seemed to amplify it. Parents, siblings, and a handful of close friends filled the pews, spaced apart but united in their support. Their presence felt incredibly personal—each person there had a deep connection to the couple, and that closeness shaped the entire day.

The church itself added to the atmosphere. Soft light filtered through stained‑glass windows, casting warm colours across the aisle as Hannah made her entrance. With fewer people in the room, the quietness became part of the story. You could hear the rustle of her dress, the soft laughter between the couple, and the gentle sniffles from guests trying to hold back tears. It was a ceremony stripped of excess, leaving only the essentials: love, commitment, and the people who mattered most.

Photographing a wedding during COVID required sensitivity, awareness, and a documentary approach that respected the space while capturing the truth of the moment. What stood out most was the resilience and warmth of everyone present. Even behind masks, you could see joy in their eyes. Even with distance, you could feel the connection. Hannah and Josh’s day was a reminder that love doesn’t shrink under restrictions—it becomes clearer, stronger, and beautifully human.