Leeds: The Coolest Backdrop for Your Elopement or City Wedding
Back in early November, I packed up my camera gear and headed to Leeds for a styled elopement shoot with My Prettiest Workshops. The goal? To showcase how a winter wedding could look, all while scouting some beautiful spots in Leeds city centre that are perfect for an intimate celebration.
Our models for the day were real-life couple Chelsea and Aidan, stepping into the world of wedding photography modelling for the first time—and absolutely nailing it. You could tell that they truly adored each other! I’ve never seen a couple kiss so much in my life, completely unprompted and full of love every time. Their romance was so playful, with plenty of laughter - I love couples who spend most of their time laughing as you see their true selves in those authentic, unscripted moments.
Chelsea and Aidan share a romantic moment on the banks of the River Aire.
A Whirlwind Tour of Leeds
The day kicked off at the Corn Exchange on a misty Sunday morning. From there, we made our way to the newly refurbished White Cloth Hall for the first shots. I wasted no time diving into my comfort zone—action photography! Capturing Chelsea and Aidan strolling through the city felt like shooting a love story on the move. The only challenge? Making sure I wasn’t photobombing the other photographers!
Next up, we took a brisk walk around the corner to SALT Granary Wharf and the Insta-famous Me & You mural, painted in 2021. This was a high-speed operation—literally. Each photographer had a strict two-minute window to direct Chelsea and Aidan in front of the mural, and let me tell you, two minutes is not a lot of time when you’re aiming for the perfect angle. But hey, the car park was empty, and the light was great, so we made it work!
Iconic Backdrops: Crown Point Bridge
Our next stop was Centenary Bridge, with its iconic views of Crown Point Bridge and the River Aire. This narrow footpath is a busy thoroughfare, even on a Sunday morning, so it was all about speed and precision—just like a real elopement day. I squeezed in some intimate portraits between passersby and absolutely loved the balance of romance and urban grit in the shots. I’m going to admit that I don’t normally love love locks, but they definitely added a romantic touch too!
Industrial Chic and Cobblestone Challenges
One of my personal highlights was shooting along the River Aire, with views of the converted mills across the water. I’ve got a soft spot for industrial architecture, and this location didn’t disappoint. Working in small groups, we navigated narrow walkways and captured some real showstoppers here. When Aidan dipped Chelsea for a kiss over the river barriers, it wasn’t just Chelsea who felt the romance—we all nearly swooned right along with her!
Then came the rain—because of course it did! But we didn’t let it stop us. Chelsea powered through in stilettos (on wet cobbles!) as we moved to Dock Street, a beautifully cobbled street that felt like stepping back in time. The quiet charm of the location was briefly interrupted by the occasional car, making for some adrenaline-fuelled photography moments as Aidan literally swept Chelsea off her feet to safety. Extreme sports? No, it’s just wedding photography.
A Marylebone Moment in Leeds
The final destination was Park Square, which could easily pass for a street in Marylebone with its Georgian townhouses and elegant staircases. Despite the drizzle, we leaned into the romantic vibes, finding festive staircases decked out in Christmas décor straight out of a rom-com. Here, I balanced playful action shots with cosy, intimate portraits—dodging cars (again) and even using them creatively in the compositions. I’m all about capturing movement in my images, following from my sports photography background, as I love the dynamic shapes and freedom it brings.
Styled Shoot or Real Elopement?
In just two hours, we covered multiple locations, and I personally had only about 30 minutes with the couple—no more time than you’d expect on a real elopement. In fact, I’ve since photographed a super-secret elopement (coming soon!) where I had over five hours to shoot solo across eight Manchester locations.
This shoot is proof that elopements can be as simple or as detailed as you want. Whether you’re after a snappy portrait session or a full-day fairytale, I’ve got the experience (and the stamina) to capture it all. I’m used to full days of adventure up on the moors, so a city centre stroll is… a walk in the park for me.
If you’re planning an intimate winter elopement in Leeds—or anywhere else—let’s chat. I’d love to help you bring your vision to life! Check out my contact page to get started.
Huge thanks to:
My Prettiest Workshops for planning.
My Pretties UK for florals
Saint Salon Leeds for hair and makeup
Chelsea and Aidan for modelling
