Earlier this week I attended a photography masterclass in locations, lighting and posing at The Lowry with leading north-west wedding photographer Jonny Draper. I’ve attended a few of Jonny’s masterclasses in the past so part of me knew what I was in for, but wow… what a day.

Thanks to Emma Draper at LOVE Bridal Boutique for bringing along the stunning ‘Heather’ by Enzoani to transform our ‘real girl’ Sarah into a beautiful bride. Sarah was a super model-who-is-not-a-model and coped amazingly well with the number of lenses pointed at her. Sarah’s three completely different looks were created by talented hair stylist Paisley Gamble with make-up by Kerry Baker. Thanks to Howard Wing for keeping us entertained between shoots and sharing some absolute gems from his own experience as the UK’s official #1 live wedding entertainer (NWIA 2014).

And as always, thank you Jonny for your infectious enthusiasm, honesty, insight and for sharing so many great techniques.

N.B. Future brides, fear not - the smoke grenades were great fun but I will not be unleashing these on your wedding day without your explicit request to do so and the approval of your venue!

Here are my best bits…