Meet Gemma Suckley Photography

Your wedding photographs are more than just beautiful images – they’re the moments, emotions and little details that allow you to relive your wedding day for years to come. That’s why finding a photographer whose style and personality feel right for you is such an important part of wedding planning.

Gemma Suckley Photography is a Skipton-based wedding photographer. She is no stranger to weddings at The Gamekeeper’s Inn, and we always love welcoming her back. Known for her natural and unobtrusive style, she has a wonderful ability to capture the laughter, emotion and spontaneous moments that make every wedding unique.

We caught up with Gemma to discover how she found her way into wedding photography, what couples can expect when they book her, her favourite things about photographing weddings in the Yorkshire Dales, and the advice she’d give to anyone planning their big day.

Getting to know Gemma Suckley Photography

Where are you based, and what areas do you cover?

I am based in Skipton, but I cover all of Yorkshire and beyond. I have been as far as Lake Garda and Rome to shoot weddings!

What do you offer couples for their wedding day?

I offer a complimentary pre-wedding engagement session, professional wedding photography, and beautifully crafted wedding highlight films at a very competitive price. I also specialise in family and pet portraits too, so if you bring children and dogs to your wedding. I’ve got you covered.

What inspired you to turn wedding photography into a full-time career?

I guess I was inspired from that first day at a wedding shoot, and I realised pretty quickly that I wanted the freedom to photograph weddings in my own way, focusing on real moments rather than staged ones. Building my own business has allowed me to stay true to that documentary approach and work with couples who value genuine, honest storytelling.

Thirteen years later, I still feel incredibly lucky that I get to do what I love. Every wedding is different, and being trusted to tell such an important story is something I'll never take for granted.

What do you love most about being part of someone's wedding day?

That’s a tough question. It's just such a privilege to be trusted with such an important day. I love capturing the moments people don't even realise are happening, the laughter, the happy tears, the quiet glances, maybe a bit of mischief and all the little interactions in between. Those are often the photographs that mean the most years later because they're real.

I really love seeing couples relive their wedding day through my images, and knowing I've preserved those memories for them is what makes this job so rewarding. Even after 13 years, I still leave every wedding feeling on a high… Exhausted, but on a high!

How would you describe Gemma Suckley Photography in three words?

Natural. Personal. Fun.

Gemma's Style and Approach

How would you describe your style as a wedding photographer?

I would describe my style as natural, unobtrusive, and vibrant. I focus on capturing genuine moments rather than stiff, overly posed photographs, blending into the background so people feel comfortable and candid moments unfold naturally. My editing embraces rich colours and bright tones, creating images that are full of energy, personality, and emotion.

What do you think sets you apart from other wedding photographers?

I combine a relaxed, documentary approach with bold, vibrant imagery to capture genuine moments rather than forced poses. My focus is on making people feel comfortable, blending into the background, or stepping up when needed.

I feel it’s important to take time to understand each couple, building trust before the wedding, and tailoring photography to reflect their personalities rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach. My complimentary pre-wedding sessions really help with this.

What can couples expect when they book you for their wedding?

When you work with me, you can expect a relaxed, friendly and fun experience from start to finish. I take the time to get to know my couples before the big day, so when your wedding arrives, it feels like having a friend with a camera.

All full day wedding packages include a complimentary pre-wedding engagement session, a chance for us to get to know each other, have some fun and get you comfortable in front of the camera before your wedding day.

On the day, I know when to blend into the background and when to step in and bring some energy. After years in the industry, I’m very good at reading the room and knowing when to guide and when to let things unfold naturally, capturing the genuine moments, emotions and fun along the way.

What's the most important thing you want every couple to experience when they book you?

Real emotion – it’s so important to me that couples and their guests feel comfortable with me, so they can be themselves and not worry about the camera. This always results in the best photos.

Are there any wedding trends you think we'll see more of over the next few years?

I think natural, real photography will be all the rage again in time.

I hope the pastel mismatched bridesmaid dresses stay in trend. They photograph beautifully, suit so many different people, and have a timeless feel without everyone looking identical.

Top Wedding Advice

What is one wedding planning mistake - or unnecessary worry - you often see couples making?

Trying to make everyone else happy.

It's so easy to get caught up in other people's opinions, traditions, or expectations, but at the end of the day, it's your wedding. The best weddings are the ones that reflect the couple, not what they think they should do.

What advice would you give to couples who have just got engaged and are starting to plan their wedding?

Put a certain amount of time aside each week for planning. This could be 1 hour every Wednesday evening, for example. That way it won’t be overwhelming.

What do couples sometimes overlook when choosing a wedding photographer?

Your photographer is one of the few suppliers you'll spend almost your entire wedding day with, so it's important to choose someone whose personality and approach makes you feel comfortable. It's not just about loving someone's photos or the price being a good fit.

I'd always encourage couples to look beyond the Instagram grid. Look at blogs, read reviews, have a chat with them, and ask yourself, "Can I imagine spending my wedding day with this person?" When you feel relaxed with your photographer, it shows in your photos.

What is your top tip for creating a wedding day that guests will genuinely remember?

Get ready with your crew. Some of the best energy I see is in the morning, girls getting ready with their bridesmaids, music on, a glass of bubbly in hand, everyone laughing and the excitement building. Those moments set the tone for the entire day.

Music throughout the day also makes such a difference. Whether it’s a singer during the drinks reception or a band in the evening, it completely lifts the atmosphere and keeps the celebration flowing.

And finally, make sure you sneak away together for 10 minutes at some point. It’s often the only quiet moment you’ll have as newlyweds, to take everything in, be together, and catch your breath while I capture some natural, relaxed portraits away from the crowd.

I think the best tip is: just be present and take it all in!

If couples were going to invest a little more in one part of their wedding day, where would you suggest spending it?

I’m obviously biased, but I think photography is one of the most important investments you can make for your wedding.

It’s the only tangible thing you’re left with once the day is over. Everything else lives in memory, but your photographs bring it all back…the feelings, the atmosphere, the little moments you didn’t even notice at the time.

They’re also something that only becomes more valuable with time. Long after the day has passed, they’re what you’ll share with your family, perhaps your children and look back on together, and they take you straight back to how it all felt.

I have to say, I think the venue and the coordinator are greatly important too. Find something that truly fits your needs and your vibe.

Behind the Scenes

What does a typical wedding day look like for you?

I usually start with morning preparations, capturing relaxed, candid moments a bit of chaos. From there, I move into the ceremony, focusing on real emotion and reactions, followed by confetti, congratulations, and the drinks reception where lots of natural moments happen.

Group photos are kept relaxed and efficient, usually some fun with the bridal and groom's party, before taking the couple away briefly for couple portraits, nothing forced, just a quiet moment together.

The rest of the day is about storytelling: speeches, atmosphere, and the energy of the evening, captured in a natural, unobtrusive way.

If the couple like, I may do more portraits at golden hour/sunset or night photography.

What is the most rewarding part of being a wedding photographer?

Witnessing everyone having such a great time and capturing the joy. Wedding days go by in such a blur, and being able to give couples something that takes them straight back to how it felt is incredibly special.

Is there one wedding moment or experience that has particularly stayed with you?

Oh wow... That's such a difficult question because I've been lucky enough to photograph so many incredible weddings!

One moment that will always stay with me was at a couple's wedding after they had travelled over from Australia to get married here. During their first dance, after a minute or so, the wedding team quietly pulled back the marquee drapes to reveal a beautiful woodland lit with hundreds of fairy lights. It was a complete surprise.

The couple then invited all of their guests to join them on the dance floor, and the look on everyone's faces was just pure joy. It was one of those magical, goosebump moments that you couldn't have planned any better.

It's actually still have the cover photo on my business Facebook page all these years later because I love it so much. Every time I see it, it takes me straight back to that magical evening, and I think it perfectly captures everything I love about photographing weddings.

Weddings don't always go exactly to plan! How do you handle unexpected changes or challenges on the day?

I guess most weddings have little surprises, whether it's a sudden change in the weather, a delayed supplier or a timeline running behind. The key is staying calm and finding a solution before it impacts the couple or their guests. Years of experience mean I'm always thinking one step ahead, so most challenges are dealt with quietly in the background, allowing the day to run as smoothly as possible.

What is something couples might be surprised to learn about what you do on a wedding day?

I end up doing way more than just taking photos! Whether that be helping with the dress, button holes, putting in the veil, fetching drinks, or just being calming presence throughout the day, or on the flip side, bringing the energy when needed.

The Yorkshire Dales and The Gamekeeper's Inn

What do you love most about photographing weddings in the Yorkshire Dales?

As a country girl, I love shooting outdoors and the stunning country side always makes me happy. I never get tired of exploring the stunning countryside and using it as the backdrop to tell each couple's unique story.

Why do you think couples are so drawn to countryside wedding venues?

I think there's something incredibly relaxed about a countryside wedding. It gives couples the chance to slow down, escape the busyness of everyday life, and celebrate surrounded by beautiful scenery. The Gamekeeper’s Inn has a great mix of laid-back country charm and luxury, which makes it such a special place for a wedding day.

What do you think makes a Yorkshire wedding particularly special?

Yorkshire has such an incredible variety of wedding settings, from rolling countryside and dramatic moorland to charming market towns and historic venues, so I always like to make the most of what's unique about each location. I love using the landscape as a backdrop for relaxed couple portraits, whether that's a golden field, a woodland path or sweeping views across the Dales.

I also encourage couples to embrace the season and the Yorkshire weather rather than worry about it. Some of the most memorable photographs come from dramatic skies or a cosy moment under an umbrella.

Most importantly, I look for the little details that reflect the character of the day and the location, creating images that feel authentic to both the couple and their Yorkshire wedding. I love the little woodland and pond area for portraits at the Gamekeeper’ Inn.

You've photographed lots of beautiful weddings The Gamekeeper's Inn. What do you enjoy most about the venue and your experience here?

Yes, I have, and I love working at The Gamekeeper’s Inn. The wedding team really do play a big part in that; they’re so welcoming, organised, and genuinely care about each couple’s day, which makes everything run so smoothly. As a photographer, that makes a huge difference because it allows the day to flow naturally without feeling rushed.

What advice would you give to couples planning a countryside wedding at a venue like The Gamekeeper's Inn?

Embrace everything that makes a countryside wedding special.

Don't worry if the weather isn't perfect, it often creates the most atmospheric photographs. Build a little flexibility into your timeline so you're not rushing, and make the most of the beautiful surroundings by sneaking away for 10–15 minutes together for some relaxed portraits.

Most importantly, enjoy being outdoors. Whether it's the views, the gardens, or the surrounding countryside, venues like The Gamekeeper's Inn have so much natural beauty, and using those spaces helps create photographs that feel timeless, relaxed, and completely unique to your day.

Rely on the team. They know what they’re doing.

Bonus Questions

Favourite wedding season?

It's hard to pick just one season! If I could choose the perfect wedding weather, it would be bright but slightly cloudy. It might sound surprising, but harsh midday sunshine isn't actually the easiest light to photograph in. It's not particularly comfortable for guests either, especially those in suits or a heavy wedding dress. Soft, bright cloud gives the most flattering light and lets everyone enjoy the day a little more comfortably.

That said, I absolutely love summer weddings. The long evenings, warm atmosphere and beautiful golden-hour light are hard to beat, even if I have to work a little harder around the stronger midday sun. Autumn is another favourite of mine too, with its rich colours, golden leaves and burnt oranges, creating the most stunning backdrop for wedding photos.

Favourite wedding song?

Well, my music taste is a bit more alternative to the popular wedding songs. I had a lovely couple perform their first dance to ‘Nothing Else Matters’ by Metallica, which was great to hear at a wedding. I’m always excited to hear what each couple have chosen as a song special to them.

Favourite part of the wedding day?

I love the pre-ceremony moments, before it all kicks off. I really enjoy capturing the build up, the nervous energy, the first look of the bride in her dress with her bridesmaids and her parents. Bridal prep is like the ultimate girls' getting-ready, and I love photographing that.

I also love just after the couple are officially married, when they walk down the aisle with massive smiles and you can see that all the tension has gone and just happiness is left.

Best piece of wedding advice you’ve ever heard?

To take some time out away from all the guests. The day goes by so quickly. I always encourage this and say they can use me and the couple portraits as an excuse to have some time together away from everyone.

What’s your prediction for weddings in 2027?

I’ve been doing this too long to know not to make predictions, haha!

One word to describe your perfect wedding?

Authentic.

Kind Words from a Recent Happy Couple

"If you want a photographer with a natural style, who is SO lovely to the point it feels like you've invited a friend to photograph your special day, then Gemma is the lass for you! We had Gemma photograph our wedding - she offered an engagement shoot before the big day so we could get to know each other and get used to being in front of the camera, and I am so glad she did because it made us feel so comfortable on the day! Gemma is very good at blending into the background and positioning herself perfectly to catch those candid moments, to the point you don't even notice she is there! I am so happy with what she captured on our wedding day. She got absolutely gorgeous photos of us as well as our families and guests which I will cherish forever.

She was also an absolute dream to deal with before and after the big day - she is very responsive on email and nothing is too much trouble. As well as being a fab photographer, she also offers signing boards to have on the day, photo albums for afters and lots of other bits and bobs!

I will never be able to find the right words to thank her for what she's done for us. I will not stop recommending her to anyone that will listen, and I would absolutely hire her again to capture more special moments in our life!"

After more than 13 years behind the camera, Gemma Suckley's passion for capturing genuine moments certainly hasn’t faded – and we love her philosophy of keeping wedding photography natural, personal and, most importantly, fun.

If you’re planning your wedding at The Gamekeeper’s Inn, choosing suppliers who understand the venue and know how to make the most of its beautiful Yorkshire Dales setting can make your day feel even more relaxed. From those excited getting-ready moments to a quiet wander together for photographs by the woodland and pond, Gemma knows all the best spots for capturing memories here.

You can find out more about Gemma Suckley Photography using the links above, including details of her wedding photography, engagement sessions and highlight films.

If you’re still searching for the perfect Yorkshire Dales wedding venue, we’d love to show you around The Gamekeeper’s Inn. Come and meet our wedding team, explore our beautiful countryside setting and discover how we can help bring your wedding plans to life.

Contact Us

Meet Gemma Suckley Photography at our Wedding Fayre

Sunday 13th September 2026, from 11am to 3pm

If you're recently engaged and starting to think about your wedding plans, we'd love to welcome you to our Wedding Fayre on Sunday 13th September, from 11am until 3pm.

Set in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, it's a chance to explore The Gamekeeper's Inn at your own pace, take a look around our award-winning Netherside Suite, and see how the venue could look on your wedding day.

You'll also have the opportunity to meet our wedding coordinators, Angela and Harriet, who will be on hand throughout the day to answer questions and chat through your ideas. Alongside them, a selection of talented local wedding suppliers will be joining us, from photographers and florists to cake makers, entertainers and decor specialists.

Whether you've only just started planning or you're looking for those final pieces to complete your day, we'd be delighted to see you.

Admission is free, and everyone is welcome. Please pre-register by clicking below. We hope you'll join us for a relaxed afternoon of wedding inspiration.

Pre-Register