When couples choose to celebrate in the heart of Somerset countryside, especially in a loved one's garden, it sets the tone for an intimate, authentic wedding day. As Somerset wedding photographer Sam Gibson noted, photographing V & H in the groom's parents' garden “brought a sense of warmth and authenticity... the lush greenery and soft summer sunlight set the perfect backdrop” 

The Essence of Documentary Photography

This wedding was defined by genuine, unstaged moments—a hallmark of Sam's documentary wedding photography style. Sam shares:

“No posing, no staged moments, just real, raw emotions... focusing on the little moments—the sneaky glances, the shared laughter, the quiet moments of reflection” 

This philosophy resonates deeply: as a Somerset wedding photographer, being able to quietly step back and capture candid emotions allows each wedding to tell its own unique story.


DIY Details & Personal Touches

The day was rich with handcrafted accents—homemade table flowers, custom signs, and family-baked treats—infusing personality into every nook. Sam observed that “the DIY touches were scattered all over... clear that this was a wedding built with love and care” 

This rooted sense of community and cohesion doesn't just look beautiful—it photographs beautifully too. The photos reflect the people and the love behind every detail.


The Mood: Casual, Joyful, Real

The mood was entirely unpretentious. Guests felt free to relax, laugh, dance—and even participate in a wedding cake piñata! Sam captured speeches, first dances, and the joy in every guest's expression. As he put it, “you could feel the happiness in the air” 


Why Choose a Somerset Garden Wedding

  1. Intimacy & Connection

    Celebrating close to home offers unmatched warmth. The surroundings are familiar, personal, and meaningful—that magic comes through in the photos.

  2. Natural & Organic Styling

    Somerset's rural landscapes and garden settings enhance the organic, carefree style that's in high demand in real wedding trends.

  3. Documentary Celebration

    For couples who want a photographer to tell their story unobtrusively—with real smiles, tears, embraces—a documentary approach is ideal. As Sam said, the best moments are often “quiet and heartfelt,” and those are the images that stand the test of time 


Incorporating These Ideas in Your Own Wedding

  • Choose a sentimental venue: Whether it's a family garden, a local farm, or a small countryside venue, those personal ties will shine through.

  • Focus on the details that matter to you: Whether it's homemade blooms, bespoke signs, or a cake piñata, pick a few touches that reflect who you are.

  • Opt for documentary photography: Hire a Somerset wedding photographer who specializes in capturing real moments rather than staging them.


In Summary

As highlighted in “A Beautiful DIY Countryside Wedding – Wedding Photography Somerset,” by Sam Gibson Weddings, the strongest weddings are those that celebrate authenticity, emotion, and personal connection A garden setting amplified by strong storytelling photography makes for timeless images full of emotion and warmth.

If you're planning a relaxed, heartfelt wedding in Somerset, considering a documentary-style photographer is a wonderful choice—letting your real story shine through in every frame.


Thinking about a DIY wedding in Somerset? Looking for the right photographer? I'd love to help you bring your vision to life—feel free to reach out!