Documentary Wedding Photographer in Bordeaux & Southwest France
I’m Gavin, a British wedding photographer based in Bordeaux, working with couples across Southwest France.
I photograph weddings in a way that allows the day to unfold naturally, focusing on the people, the exchanges, and the atmosphere. Each image is shaped by timing and light, with an awareness of what matters, so the work feels intentional without the day ever feeling staged or directed.
Couples often tell me they felt comfortable having me there, and that the photography never felt like it took them away from their day.
Kind words from couples
It's hard to put into words how much we love the photo sets that you've sent us. Honestly, they are incredible.
“We can’t thank Gavin enough. Hundreds of wonderful moments from our wedding day, all beautifully captured. He went the extra mile — a fantastic photographer and a pleasure to have around.”
“Gavin went completely above and beyond. He captured dozens of beautiful photos, both candid and posed, and communicated brilliantly in the lead-up. Couldn’t be happier with the results.”
Photography with feeling
Weddings move quickly, and much of what matters happens in between the obvious moments.
A glance across the room, a hand on a shoulder, or a quiet pause after laughter often carries more meaning than anything planned. These are the details that shape how a day is remembered.
I photograph what is unfolding as it happens, so when you look back at the images, they do more than show you the day. They bring you back into it.I shoot mostly digital but often bring in film too — it adds a texture and character I love, especially for the moments that mean the most.
A calm presence from first chat to final frame
On a wedding day, I am present, observant, and easy to have around.
I step in when it helps and step back when it does not. This might mean offering clear guidance during portraits or group photographs, then giving you space to return to your guests and the rhythm of the day. Nothing feels rushed, and nothing important is left to chance.
The aim is for you to stay connected to the people around you, enjoy the day as it unfolds, and later see photographs that reflect how it actually felt to be there.
You can see how that looks in the portfolio.
Based in Bordeaux, photographing weddings across Southwest France
I am based in Bordeaux and photograph weddings across Southwest France.
Many of the couples I work with are travelling to France to get married and bringing friends and family together from different places. The location becomes part of the day without needing to take focus away from the people who matter most.
Your story, told beautifully
Every wedding is delivered as a complete story.
The gallery follows the day as it unfolded, including the quieter moments as well as the obvious ones. The photographs sit together naturally and reflect the experience you actually had rather than a version created for the camera.
If that sounds like your kind of thing, you can check your date, explore the packages, or take a look through the portfolio to see how it all comes together.
You have been amazing and your time and effort is a gift we will cherish forever
What it’s like to have me around
I am not there to take over your day.
I talk to people, blend in easily, and help when it is useful. I keep things moving calmly in the background and offer guidance only when it adds something to the experience.
Couples usually remember me as someone who fitted in, worked hard, and gave them photographs that felt like their wedding rather than a version created for the camera.
If this sounds like what you’re looking for, you can check my wedding photography packages and see how it all comes together.
More kind words:
“Gavin helped with every detail and even suggested ideas to make the moment more special. Polite, respectful, and professional throughout — and the photos were exceptional. Highly recommended.”
“This was such a special moment and you captured it perfectly.”
Contact me.
Gavin Chapman · Wedding Photographer in France
I’m based in Bordeaux and photograph weddings across the Dordogne, Charente, Lot-et-Garonne and throughout France.
I work mainly with English-speaking couples from the UK, US, Australia, Ireland and beyond — people who want beautifulful photographs of themselves and the people who matter most, on the day that matters most.
Available across France and Europe.
I’d love to hear what you’re planning.