Getting to Know - David Walters Photography

Company Name: David Walters Photography

Interview with: David Walters

Location / Coverage: Liverpool / North West / UK

How did David Walters Photography get started?

I kind of fumbled my way into the wedding industry with a wedding video company. I was assisting a video guy one day and I knew the photographer. She was working for a company that was very busy and was looking for a photographer, so she got me a start with them.

I took to it instantly — the whole buzz of the day — and discovered I had a talent for it. I set up my own business the following year.

Had you always wanted to be a photographer?

No, not at all. I was a sound engineer in the 90s and was doing a Masters degree when I started photography professionally. I had always been an amateur photographer though.

Can you remember how old you were when you took your first picture? What was it of?

The earliest memory I have was of a family holiday in Torquay. We had a Polaroid camera so you really had to make the shots count. You had 10 in the cartridge and they were hideously expensive!

My younger brother was trying to stand up all day (he was a baby, of course!) and I waited and waited to catch him, which I did! It’s quite funny that it was my first ‘documentary’ photograph!

Which areas of the UK do you cover?

I travel all over the North West mainly, but have shot weddings all over the UK and abroad.

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

That’s a hard one. I’m pretty hyped up all day so never run out of energy. I am quick on the draw so I get a high count of real moments, and I’m really good at making people feel at ease.

How would you describe your photography style?

Natural, emotional and timeless.

What packages do you offer and what are your rates?

I do a full day, which includes bridal preparations until first dance, for a fee of £1,200. My album packages start at £1,500

What is the best thing about your job?

Capturing something priceless that you know is going to provoke tears in years to come. I love the whole thing really. I love meeting people too, and weddings give you lots of opportunity for that.

Do you have a specialist area of photography?

Definitely photographing people, and I think I am quite good at capturing personalities.

Who/what are your influences?

There are so many brilliant photographers out there now. I love looking through WPS or Fearless for a bit of inspiration. When I started in 2008 it was a photograph by Jeff Ascough which convinced me natural photography is best. It was an image of a parent or grandparent praying in church; it’s a very beautiful scene.

Do you have a favourite picture that you have taken (if you can choose!)?

The couple in this picture were so in love. They both had kids from previous relationships who were so happy for them. It was an amazing day, and is in my all time best weddings. I caught a lot of magical moments that day.

What is your top tip for choosing a wedding photographer?

I guess it’s as much about if you get on with them as it is the photos. They are going to spend one of your most important days with you, so you need to be a good fit.

Random question… If you could take pictures of anyone, who would it be and why?

I think it would have to be David Bowie; I have been a big fan of his since I was a kid. It was a sad year last year; the world has lost a real treasure.