How I shoot


Style.

I have a cool English accent; I’m dashing and handsome – so my wife says. Seriously though, I love the craft of photography.

As a former press photographer, I tell stories using a documentary approach that captures the authentic moments of your special day. I keep things simple and make sure you both never get overwhelmed or feel like the wedding is a huge production of lights, light stands, and assistants. My trusty Leicas are all I need to get the job done right using available light.

I happily capture a limited set of staged photographs, including the obligatory group photos and creative shots of the couple.

I’ll capture the life of your wedding as it unfolds without forcing any direction, ensuring your wedding memories are captured in the most authentic and beautiful way possible.

I’m like a fly on the wall—everywhere and yet nowhere to be seen. When I photograph a wedding, I pour my heart and soul into every shot. I don’t stage anything or direct anyone—I simply document life as it happens. One of my key principles is that I don’t control the event – this is wedding photojournalism. Another principle is I do not use flash at weddings. It’s a mood killer, and I prefer to capture ambient light. Of course, I’m more than happy to take group photos and shots of the happy couple, but those are usually quick and painless.

040 The Kendall in Boerne Wedding Philip Thomas Photography l1002688
What I love

What really gets me excited are those decisive moments full of emotion. I’m constantly learning and drawing inspiration from the greats in the art world – from painters and photographers to filmmakers and war correspondents. It’s amazing how much you can learn from other creatives!

The beauty of wedding photojournalism lies in its simplicity. It’s all about capturing the moments without any interference. The photographer acts as an observer, resulting in a series of authentic, intimate images that tell the story of the couple’s special day.

The approach

This approach allows you and your partner to be yourselves and enjoy your day without worrying about sticking to photography trends or posing for the camera. As a wedding photojournalist, I see myself as an observer. My goal is to capture authentic images that tell the story of your day. I won’t be getting in your way or directing you in any way. Instead, I’ll be quietly documenting your experience.

I work with available light, whether I’m capturing weddings or street photography. Waiting for everything to come together in the frame is what I live for. For me, light, composition, and geometry all form the structure of the perfect image. I spend a lot of time anticipating the moment, and when it finally arrives, I squeeze the shutter in an attempt to capture “the decisive moment.”

A bride passes a painting in the Hotel Contessa, San Antonio, Texas
Inspiration

My studio is filled with photography books, which I use to continue my education and craft. I’m always learning about art and design, and I view it as a never-ending journey of discovery.

There are so many photographers who inspire me, but I have to say that my heroes are Henri Cartier-Bresson, Robert Frank, Robert Doisneau, Don McCullin, Elliott Erwitt, Alex Webb, and the founders of Magnum. I constantly strive to learn from their work and incorporate their techniques into my photography.

A couple exit Ocho at Hotel Havana just married and in a loving embrace

All I need from you is your trust that I’ll capture all the moments organically.

It’s your day, and I’m just there to help you preserve the memories forever.