The End Of An Era…

So…it’s time for a change.

For the last 16 years (crikey, that sounds a long time, doesn't it?!), you've known me as a Forensic Scientist. And for a good chunk of that – the last 6 years, in fact – I've been juggling that world with my absolute passion: wedding photography. Well, that balancing act is about to change in a rather significant way...

Finding Where I Truly Belong

Now, I'm a pretty scientific bloke at heart, always drawn to the detail and the process. Forensics certainly ticked those boxes for me. But, if I'm honest, even though I loved the work, I always felt like a little piece of the puzzle was missing. That creative spark, the chance to really grow and express myself – that wasn't quite there in the lab.  

Things started to shift when my brilliant wife, Sam, decided to open her shop. It felt like the perfect moment to finally pick up a camera – something I'd wanted to do for ages. I started out helping Sam with product shots, then dipped my toe into fashion, portraits, pets, landscapes... you name it! I do enjoy a challenge, and Sam's knack for needing a photoshoot with absolutely no notice certainly kept me on my toes!  

After a few years of trying out different types of photography, a couple of friends asked me to photograph their wedding. I'll be straight with you, it wasn't something I'd ever really considered! They had to do a fair bit of convincing to get me to "put on my big boy pants" and go for it.  

But flipping heck, I am so incredibly glad I did! I honestly had no idea how much pure fun wedding photography would be. Being right there in the heart of such a happy, important day, surrounded by genuine emotion and laughter... it just felt right.  

I've been lucky enough to have careers that tap into both my scientific, detail-focused brain and my increasingly creative side. But trying to give my amazing couples the absolute best wedding photography experience while still working as a Forensic Scientist full-time (and more recently, part-time) has been a bit of a stretch, and not really a long-term plan.  

So, the time has come. I'm hanging up my lab coat and leaving my job as a Forensic Scientist. Why? So I can dedicate all of my time, energy, and passion to you lovely lot and telling your incredible wedding stories!  

Leaping into Full-Time Wedding Photography!

As of the first of July, I will officially be a full-time wedding photographer! Honestly? It's a bit daunting, maybe even a little scary. But, as they say, it's about time I "put my big boy pants on" and fully commit.  

I truly believe that my years in forensics have given me some rather unexpected but hugely valuable skills for photographing weddings. That high-pressure, fast-paced environment, the absolute need for attention to detail, staying calm when things are a bit chaotic – it's all surprisingly relevant. It means I'm used to thinking on my feet, noticing those fleeting, important moments, and making sure nothing gets missed on your big day. I'm certainly not going to miss sitting in a lab all day though!  

Because the truth is, I realised a while back that seeing your happy faces, being involved in your special day, and snapping away on my camera... well, that's just so much better! It brings me a massive amount of joy to capture those genuine moments and tell the authentic story of your wedding day – the Martyn Hathaway way.  

So, after I've had a proper brew, it's time to crack on and get stuck into being my own boss!  

Embracing This Exciting New Chapter

Today marks the beginning of this exciting new chapter, and I am incredibly proud to call myself a full-time wedding photographer. Every single wedding is a new adventure, a unique story waiting to be told, and an amazing opportunity to create memories that you will cherish forever.  

If you're planning your wedding here in Lancashire or the wider North West, and you're looking for a photographer who is relaxed, friendly, and has a keen eye for capturing all those natural, joyful, and authentic moments – someone who perhaps brings a unique blend of analytical precision and heartfelt creativity – then I would absolutely love to hear from you and help tell your story.  

Want to chat about your big day, life as an ex-forensic scientist, or perhaps share some recommendations for good rum? Get in touch!