Gary Wallage: Bringing Your Life & Love to Light in Swindon

Hello, I’m Gary Wallage, a passionate photographer based in Swindon, Wiltshire. I work with clients across the region and beyond, helping them capture memories that truly matter.

How My Journey Began

My love for photography started during my A-levels in the late 1980s. Back then, I had the chance to work with real film in a darkroom. This hands-on experience was a fantastic introduction to the art. It taught me that every photograph is more than just a copy of reality. Instead, each image is shaped by light, timing, and emotion. Because of this, I learned that photos are open to interpretation in many ways.

My Approach to Photography

Over time, this perspective has shaped how I work. I focus on people-their emotions, and their stories. Whether someone feels joy, sadness, pleasure, or pure indulgence, I want to capture those real moments. In my eyes, everyone is beautiful. I believe every person can feel confident, happy, and even sexy, no matter their size, shape, age, or ability.

Creating Comfort and Trust

Helping clients feel comfortable is at the heart of my work. When I am confident and considerate, people relax and show their true selves. I always reassure my clients that I am there to support them. I will never push anyone beyond their comfort zone. Respect is essential. For example, I never touch a client or adjust their outfit or hair without first explaining what I need and asking for permission. Open communication and empathy guide every session.

A Memorable Experience

One wedding at Wrag Barn stands out in my memory. The day was bright, and the emotions were genuine. Caroline and Dan, the couple, shared many touching moments. What made the day unique was the celebrant-Dan’s military pastor. He spoke about supporting soldiers in the field and even brought sweets for the guests. He explained that he always carries sweets while on duty to offer comfort. These small, heartfelt details are the moments I love to capture.

Technical Skills and Professional Growth

I believe in staying up-to-date with the latest camera gear and lighting. For example, I use the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and Godox lighting equipment. In addition, I am committed to ongoing learning. I regularly attend courses, meet with peers, and take on new creative challenges. My workflow includes innovative tools like AI-assisted image culling. As a result, I consistently deliver high-quality images.

Gary Wallage

What You Can Expect

From your first enquiry to the delivery of your final images, I aim to make the process smooth and enjoyable. I guide clients on how to prepare, from choosing outfits to picking locations. I am always happy to answer questions or accommodate special requests. Each session is tailored to tell your unique story.

My Philosophy

For me, photography is about more than just pictures. It’s about helping people see themselves at their best and preserving memories that last. I look forward to helping you share your story.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you collaborate with other vendors or professionals?

Yes, especially for weddings, I coordinate closely with venues, celebrants, and other vendors. I respect their roles and communicate openly about photography needs and positioning to ensure smooth cooperation. This teamwork results in high-quality photos and a seamless experience for everyone involved.


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How do you stay inspired and continue developing your skills?

Continuous learning is important to me. I stay current with the latest camera and lighting equipment, attend professional courses and workshops, participate in peer meetings, and take on paid photoshoots that challenge me creatively. This commitment helps me deliver fresh, high-quality work to my clients.


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How do you market your photography business?

I maintain several specialised social media brands on Instagram and Facebook, including accounts focused on weddings, glamour, family, and fashion photography. I post daily on my blog and social channels, use Google My Business with an attached shop, and leverage AI tools to generate engaging content and captions. This multi-channel approach helps me reach and connect with a diverse audience.


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What is your process for post-shoot communication and follow-up?

Currently, I focus on ensuring you are satisfied with your images and addressing any concerns promptly. I value feedback and am exploring loyalty programmes and milestone reminders to encourage ongoing relationships, as many clients return for future sessions like maternity or newborn shoots following engagements and weddings.


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How do you balance candid and posed shots?

Both candid and posed shots are essential to telling a complete story. Candid photography captures genuine emotion and the atmosphere of the event, while posed shots ensure key people and groups are beautifully documented. I work with clients to identify must-have posed shots and allow plenty of space for natural, spontaneous moments to unfold.


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What happens if something goes wrong during a shoot?

While rare, technical issues can occur. On one occasion, a lens failure affected some wedding photos. I took responsibility by reducing my fee and working hard to salvage the images, which are irreplaceable. To mitigate such risks, I offer “Day After” shoots, allowing couples to wear their wedding outfits again and capture beautiful images in locations or scenarios not possible on the wedding day itself.


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Do you offer special accommodations for clients with specific needs?

Yes, I am committed to inclusivity and flexibility. For example, I have worked with clients who use wheelchairs, adapting locations and poses to suit their mobility needs while ensuring they feel celebrated and confident. I am always happy to discuss any accessibility requirements or cultural considerations in advance to create a comfortable and respectful experience.


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How should I prepare for my photo session?

Preparation can make a big difference. I recommend good skincare in the days leading up to your session and professional hair and make-up on the day if desired. Bring several comfortable outfits to give variety, and remember that feeling relaxed and confident is the most important factor in getting great photos.


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How do you ensure a comfortable atmosphere, especially for nervous or camera-shy clients?

I believe that openness and empathy are key to creating a relaxed environment. I share my personal story, including my experience as a high-functioning autistic person who initially struggled to recognise facial expressions. Photography became a way for me to catalogue expressions and emotions, which helps me connect with clients and guide them gently. I encourage clients to bring multiple outfits, offer a private changing area, and prioritise your comfort throughout the session.


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Who owns the copyright to the images? What rights do I have?

As the photographer based in the UK, I retain the copyright to all images. However, my contract grants you an irrevocable, unlimited licence to use, print, and share your images freely. This means you have full practical freedom to create albums, canvases, and share your photos as you wish.


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What is your approach to privacy and image security?

I take privacy very seriously. Sensitive shoots, such as boudoir sessions, remain private unless you give explicit consent to share images publicly. I only showcase work with professional models or clients who have signed a model release. All images are stored securely on a private home server-not in the cloud-except for temporary sharing via secure online galleries. This ensures your photos are protected to the highest standard.


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Can I request edits or changes after receiving my images?

Absolutely! I welcome all feedback and view it as an opportunity to improve. If you would like changes or additional edits, please let me know. I am happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure you are completely satisfied with your images.


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How do you select and edit final images for clients?

I use AI-based tools to quickly filter out technically flawed images such as those with blinks or blurs. After this initial culling, I personally review all remaining photos, considering your preferences and the moments that matter most to you. I always take multiple shots of each setup to ensure the best possible results. My editing style aims to enhance natural beauty and emotion while maintaining authenticity.


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What’s your turnaround time for final images?

You can expect an unedited preview within one week of your session. Fully edited and retouched images are delivered within two months. This timeframe allows me to carefully select and edit your photos to the highest standard, including any minor retouching requests you may have.


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How do you deliver final images?

Final images are delivered via a secure online gallery accessible for one year. This allows you to view, download, and share your photos easily. I am considering offering branded USB drives as a premium delivery option in the near future. Many clients prefer to order albums and prints themselves; I am happy to recommend trusted suppliers for albums and framing to ensure high quality.


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Do you offer gift vouchers or special promotions?

Currently, I do not offer gift vouchers. However, I occasionally run special pricing promotions. Booking in advance guarantees your rate, even if prices increase later. I recommend keeping an eye on my social media channels and website for any upcoming offers.


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How does pricing work?

My pricing is based on the duration and complexity of the session, as well as travel time for location shoots. I offer bundled packages that provide better value, such as combining engagement and wedding shoots or multiple wedding segments. If you book an engagement shoot followed by a wedding, the engagement session fee is discounted from your wedding package. Prices are reviewed annually to reflect rising costs, but if you book and pay in advance, I honour the price at the time of booking.


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How do you structure your sessions?

Session structure depends on the type of shoot. Weddings can be covered as full-day events, from preparation through to the first dance, or as shorter, focused segments. Studio shoots like maternity sessions are longer and include breaks to ensure comfort, typically lasting around two hours. Engagement, boudoir, and family shoots are tailored to your preferences, with flexible timing and location options to suit your needs and comfort level.


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Where do you work, and how far do you travel?

My primary working locations are professional studios in Swindon, Wiltshire, including my own private home studio, which is nearing completion. For location shoots such as weddings, I typically travel up to two hours from Swindon. I am flexible and happy to discuss travel arrangements for special projects or events beyond this range.


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What types of photography do you offer?

I specialise in a broad range of people-focused photography services. These include weddings, engagements, solo portraits such as headshots or dating profile photos, boudoir and lingerie shoots, family sessions including maternity and newborn photography, and theatrical company promotional shoots. I am also interested in expanding into event photography. My approach is tailored to each client’s needs, ensuring that every session captures their unique personality and story.


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