Bride and glory as Simon wins wedding title
Some people say a picture is worth a thousand words, but for Simon Biffen, a wedding photographer based in Somerset, a picture is worth a prestigious award.
Simon Biffen has won the Best Wedding Photographer in the South West title at the 2024 Wedding Industry Awards.
Simon, who has photographed over 380 weddings across the UK and Europe, said he was “really proud” of his achievement, based on scores and feedback from his previous year’s clients and assessed by a panel of highly acclaimed photographers.
“I decided to enter this year to see how I’d fare against the best in the region, and I’m delighted I did,” he said.
Simon, from Bath, started his photography career in 2009, alongside his day job as a primary school teacher.
He went full-time in 2012 after his interest in photography was sparked by his late grandfather, who gave him his old film SLR when he was 11.
He described his style as “relaxed, story-telling” and said he built up his experience and portfolio by shooting a friend’s wedding and attracting couples who liked his approach.
He also shared some advice for aspiring wedding photographers, saying they should “get out there and shoot as much as they can” and learn how to use their camera “inside-out” to be ready for any situation.
“Weddings are fast flowing, and there’s generally no opportunity for re-takes,” he said.
“Finding a way to hone your skills without the pressure of being the lead photographer, perhaps as a second shooter or assistant, to learn how a wedding day unfolds is a good idea.”
He also recommended learning from online wedding photographerspecific resources such as 9Dots, which he said was helpful and a place to meet others in the same business.
Simon, who is 41 years old and lives in Odd Down with his wife, two young children and their Labrador dog, said he had some availability for 2024/25 bookings and invited interested couples to visit his website, www.simon biffenphotography.co.uk, or follow him on Instagram @simonbiffen photo.
He will now compete for the national title of Best Wedding Photographer at the Wedding Industry Awards event on Wednesday, January 24 in London.