Cécile & Sebastian — Islington Town Hall, then dinner at Salut!, London
A calm, elegant city ceremony with relaxed, editorial portraits
I photographed Cécile and Sebastian’s intimate Islington wedding with two hours of coverage—just enough time for the ceremony, confetti, a handful of family groups, and a short portrait walk before they headed to dinner at Salut! on Essex Road. My approach is always quiet and unobtrusive, with gentle direction so you feel comfortable and look your best.
At a glance
• Venues: Ceremony at Islington Town Hall (Islington, London) → dinner at Salut!, Islington
• Coverage: 2 hours, solo photographer
• Ceremony: Civil ceremony
• Portraits: Town Hall steps, Upper Street and side streets on the walk towards Salut!
• Style: Editorial storytelling in natural light with soft, flattering guidance
• Standout moments: Confetti on the steps, a tender pause with their little daughter, and a few relaxed portraits as we wandered through Islington
• Suppliers (Instagram):
Photographer @photo.kseniia
Dress @lilar_paris
Makeup @maayanwintermua
Ring @heloiseetabelardjewelry
Hair @shogomedia
• A note: Cécile and Sebastian are from France; family was at the heart of their day (and yes—they’re dog people 💛)
A quiet, unhurried start
We met at Islington Town Hall just before the ceremony. I always keep this part calm—simple guidance, window light where possible, and quick detail frames that will mean the most later: the ring, the fabric of the dress, and the way everyone greets each other right before walking in.
Ceremony at Islington Town Hall
The room felt warm and intimate, with plenty of natural light. I worked discreetly so the focus stayed on the vows and the glances between them. A civil ceremony moves quickly, so I position to capture both of them and the little reactions from family, especially important when you have a small one eager to say hello mid-ceremony
Confetti, family photos, and a short portrait walk
Straight after the register signing we stepped onto the iconic steps for confetti, bright, joyful frames every time. We then ran through a short, efficient list of family groups (about 8–10), keeping everything relaxed so they could enjoy time together. With a few minutes spare, we wandered along Upper Street and the quieter side roads for portraits. I use simple prompts—walk, pause, breathe, look at each other—so images feel natural but polished.
Dinner at Salut!
Before they settled in for dinner at Salut!, we made a couple of portraits outside the restaurant. The evening light on Essex Road gave us clean, modern frames that match their understated style—perfect bookends to a heartfelt, unfussy celebration.