Wedding photographers take shot at ‘aggressive’ clergy

PHOTOS of that first special kiss are treasured by brides and grooms.

But wedding photographers say it is becoming almost impossible to take pictures inside churches due to the ‘aggressive, rude and humiliating’ behaviour of members of the clergy.

More than 800 have signed a petition calling for church leaders to be more considerate. It comes after one photographer told how a vicar threatened to kick her while another said one put his hand in front of the bride’s face so she couldn’t be photographed.

The petition was started by photographer Rachel Roberts, 37, from Lincoln, who said a conversation between wedding photographers and church leaders was needed to address the situation for the benefit of marrying couples. She added that photographers were avoiding taking work in churches due to the problems they face.

And while acknowledging photographers take steps to be discreet, she claimed they were often subject to strict rules, with some ministers being hostile.

Ms Roberts said many couples are told on their wedding day they can’t have pictures inside the church, leaving them devastated. She added many church leaders were ‘stuck in the past’ and those who embraced photography had long waiting lists, The Reverend Andrew Roberts, the Lincoln diocesan lead for weddings, said: ‘I will always say to a wedding couple before the wedding for the photographer to come and have a chat with me, so we know the page we are on.’

The Church of England said that ‘we advise that couples discuss these matters in advance with their church, so they know what to expect’. The Catholic Church was approached for comment.