Destination wedding photography on Scotland's whisky island.
I'm Ben - your local guide to creating unforgettable images in one of the world's most dramatic landscapes.
Why Work With a Local Photographer?
I live here.
I don't just photograph on Islay - I live here. I know which beaches catch the best light at sunset, when the tides are right for Machir Bay portraits, and where to find those perfect sheltered spots. This isn't just my workplace - it's home.
Your Couple Session is an Adventure
Forget stiff photoshoots. We'll explore stunning coastlines with a wee dram in hand, scrambling over rocks and laughing at the wind. Your portraits happen naturally while you're busy soaking up the Islay magic.
Relaxed, Natural Photography
I work in an unobtrusive way, letting your day unfold naturally. The best photos happen when you're simply being yourselves - and I'll be there to capture the moments you didn't even realize were happening.
Complete Local Support
From venue recommendations to connecting you with brilliant local vendors, I'll help you navigate every aspect of your Islay wedding. Think of me as your local friend who knows all the best spots.
No Travel Worries
Working with a local cuts down on any travel worries - no extra accommodation charges or travel expenses, no chances of missed ferries or missed connections. Everything you need, right here!
“Ben was like a guide for us for that day and honestly, we can’t imagine how different our day would’ve been had he not been there. He supports the whole experience, not just the photography. He knew what would be exciting and special for us and it was epic!”
Ted and Tara on the Singing Sands beach, 2025
The Islay Experience
Imagine this: you're standing on the sands at the dramatic Machir Bay, the Atlantic waves crashing in behind you, a wee dram warming your hands. The wind's doing its thing with your hair, and you're both laughing.
This is your couple session - not a stiff photoshoot, but a proper Islay adventure. Earlier, I captured the quiet moments as you got ready, the emotion as you exchanged vows on the beach, the joy of your intimate celebration.
Now we're exploring this incredible landscape together, and the photos? They're happening naturally while you're busy being present in this place you've chosen. This is what I do - I capture the whole story of your Islay wedding day, from the nervous excitement of getting ready to the wild magic on the coastline.
Whether you're eloping with just the two of you or gathering all your favourite people, I'll be there to document every meaningful moment.
Catherine and Arren, Machir Bay, 2026
“We couldn’t have asked for a better photographer for our elopement in Islay. Ben made the whole process effortless and so special for us. We couldn’t be happier with the photographs - Ben captured every moment perfectly. Photographs we’ll cherish for life. Thank you so much Ben! ”
The Packages
Wedding Photography Packages
Whether it’s an romantic Islay elopement, two day wedding adventure or intimate family wedding, I’ve got a package to suit you. Have a browse below, and then get in touch to discuss your perfect wedding experience.
THE WEE WEDDING
Half Day Coverage (up to 4 hours)
Perfect for intimate elopements and small celebrations where you want to focus on the experience and the landscape.
What's Included:
Coverage of your ceremony
Spectacular couple portraits at your choice of Islay locations
Relaxed, natural photography style
Sneak peek images within 48 hours
Fully edited gallery (minimum 150 images) within 6-8 weeks
High-resolution digital images with print release
Private online gallery for viewing and sharing
Pre-wedding consultation and planning support
Ideal for: Elopements, couples wanting to focus on adventure and exploration, intimate ceremonies without reception
Prices for midweek start at £999
THE GATHERING
Three-Quarter Day Coverage (6-7 hours)
For small weddings without evening celebrations - covers everything from final preparations through to when you're ready to relax.
What's Included:
Final preparations and getting ready
Full ceremony coverage
Family groups and couple portraits
Reception, meal, and speeches
FREE engagement session on Islay
Sneak peek images within 48 hours
Fully edited gallery (minimum 300 images) within 6-8 weeks
High-resolution digital images with print release
Private online gallery for viewing and sharing
Pre-wedding consultation and planning support
Ideal for: Intimate weddings of 10-30 guests, daytime celebrations, couples who want comprehensive coverage without late-night dancing
Prices start at £1499
Amber and Jack’s epic evening, 2025
Bruce and Ellen at Lower Killeyan, 2025
THE ISLAY EXPERIENCE
Full Day Coverage (10+ hours)
Most popular for traditional weddings. Complete coverage from bridal prep through to evening celebrations, with plenty of time for those golden hour beach portraits.
What's Included:
Bridal preparations and getting ready
Full ceremony coverage
Family groups and couple portraits
Extended time for relaxed, adventurous couple photography
Golden hour beach sessions
Reception, speeches, and evening celebrations
FREE engagement session on Islay
Sneak peek images within 48 hours
Full edited gallery (minimum 600 images) within 6-8 weeks
High-resolution digital images with print release
Private online gallery for viewing and sharing
Pre-wedding consultation and planning support
Ideal for: Traditional wedding days, couples wanting comprehensive coverage, celebrations with evening entertainment
Prices for midweek start at £1999
Optional Add-Ons:
Second photographer for larger weddings
Additional coverage hours
Premium albums and wall art
Rehearsal dinner coverage
Additional engagement sessions
We can build a package together - what I can do for you is pretty unlimited! Why not ask me about:
2 hour midweek elopements.
All day and all night packages! Let’s party!
A second shooter
Kima nd Justin, Singing Sands, November 2025
"We're Not Great at Having Our Photo Taken..."
Honestly? You're not alone. Most couples tell me this at some point, and I completely understand - standing in front of a camera can feel awkward and unnatural.
But here's the thing: your couple session on Islay isn't really a "photoshoot" in the traditional sense. It's more like an adventure with a camera along for the journey.
What actually happens on a wedding photoshoot!
We'll head to one of Islay's stunning beaches or clifftop spots - somewhere you've probably been dreaming about since you decided to get married here. I'll bring a wee dram or two (or whatever you fancy), and we'll spend 30-45 minutes exploring, chatting, maybe scrambling over rocks, definitely laughing at the wind trying to steal your veil.
I'm not going to pose you awkwardly or ask you to do anything that feels forced. Instead, I'll suggest you walk towards that incredible view, or whisper something to each other, or just stand together and take it all in. The photos happen naturally while you're busy enjoying being on a wild Scottish beach.
The Islay Difference
Think of this as part of your island experience - like visiting a distillery or watching the sunset over the Atlantic. It's a chance to step away from your guests for a bit, catch your breath, and actually be present together in this landscape you've chosen.
Most couples tell me afterwards that it was one of their favourite (and most fun!) parts of the day. Not because of the photos (though they love those too), but because it gave them space to be just the two of them in an incredible place, doing something a bit adventurous and memorable.
What Makes It Relaxed
I've been photographing couples on this island for years - I know how to read when someone's comfortable and when they need a moment. If you're feeling stiff, we'll walk more. If you're camera-shy, I'll give you something to do or talk about. And if you just want to stand there holding hands and looking at the view while I capture that? Perfect.
“For two people who very much dislike their picture being taken, he made it so enjoyable. Ben created a relaxed and easy going atmosphere which made for a fun shoot and a collection of memories to last a lifetime!”
Trust the Process
You don't need to be "good at photos." You just need to be yourselves, be willing to get a bit windswept, and trust me to capture something beautiful while you're busy soaking up the Islay magic.
If you're still worried, we can always do an engagement session when you visit the island beforehand - it's a brilliant way to get comfortable with the camera and with me, and you'll have gorgeous photos to use for invitations or save-the-dates.
But honestly? Once you're standing with the sand beneath your feet, the Atlantic rolling in and a dram warming your hands, being photographed won't feel like the main event. The island does most of the work - I just help you remember it.
What Couples Say
“Contacting Ben was the best thing we could’ve done. He met with us twice before meeting him the day of the wedding and we felt at ease and understood. He was reassuring, he shared our humour and we told our friends that he felt like a friend at the end! I can’t recommend him enough. He is a skilled photographer and the loveliest of guides. We are so grateful.”
“Ben’s inside knowledge of the island was invaluable - he actually helped us organise local flowers, food and a location, and the day was perfect thanks to his help. Ben went above and beyond on the day, managing to include our 6 month old puppy, giving us a piggyback over a muddy puddle and some incredible drone shots! He perfectly captured our day - we couldn’t be happier with how the photos turned out. Thank you so much Ben!”
“Ben is an outstanding wedding photographer. His knowledge of Islay was crucial in getting the best photos for our July wedding. On the day he kept me (the bride) calm and remained entirely professional through the day and evening and we got the wedding album of our dreams. I would highly recommend My Islay Wedding.”
How We'll Work Together
1. Get in Touch
Drop me a message telling me about your Islay wedding plans - your date, rough guest numbers, and what you're dreaming up. I'll check my availability and get back to you quickly.
2. Let's Have a Chat
We'll jump on a video call (or meet in person if you're visiting Islay) to talk through your vision, answer any questions, and make sure we're a great fit. This is completely relaxed and no-pressure.
3. Book Your Date
Love what you've heard? Reserve your date with a deposit and signed agreement. Your date is then locked in and I won't take any other bookings for that day.
4. Plan Together
In the months leading up to your wedding, I'll help with timeline planning, location suggestions, and connecting you with brilliant local vendors. I'm here to support you through the whole process.
5. Your Islay Wedding Day
I'll be there to capture every moment - from the quiet preparations to the wild, windswept portraits to the joyful celebrations. Then you'll get your sneak peek within 48 hours, and your full gallery within 6-8 weeks.
Ready to Start Planning Your Islay Wedding?
I'd love to hear about your vision and help you create something beautiful and unforgettable on this incredible island. Whether you're eloping on a windswept beach or gathering 30 of your favourite people for a full celebration, let's talk.
I only take a limited number of weddings each year so I can give every couple my full attention and creative energy. If you're dreaming of an Islay wedding, get in touch soon to check availability.
Need some more info?
I've created comprehensive resources to help you plan every aspect of your Islay wedding - from choosing the best time of year to understanding guest logistics and finding the perfect venue.
Got specific questions? Check out our detailed FAQ page covering everything from accommodation to weather planning.
Like to see more?
Click below to have a look at some of the latest wedding galleries, or contact me via email or web form - look forward to hearing from you soon!