From My First Wedding in 2012 to Top 25 Wedding Photographer in the World 2026

Black and white headshot Image of Natalie Martin Top 25 Wedding Photographer in the World

Wedding photography has been my passion since 2012. From the moment I photographed my very first wedding, I knew without question that this was the career for me, and to be a Top 25 Wedding Photographer in the World is a dream. There was something about weddings that instantly clicked; the energy, the emotion, the unpredictability, and most of all, the beautiful untold moments that quietly unfold throughout the day.

I love everything weddings have to offer, but it’s the crazy, fun, emotional, and fleeting moments that truly draw me in. The moments that often go unnoticed at the time, yet become the images that stand the test of time.

Black and white image of the bride kissing her father on the cheek at her wedding everyone emotional one of the images for the Top 25 Wedding Photographer in the World Award

How Did I Go From My First Wedding to being a Top 25 Wedding Photographer in the World?

The journey from photographing my first wedding to being named the top 25 photographer in the world, just how did it happen?

I was introduced to Fearless Photographers by an old tog friend of the family, David Campbell from Ireland. He pushed me to sign up, enter the awards, and he believed in me, unfortunately David is no longer with us to see what I have achieved, but I know he would be super proud!

Entering photography awards has played a huge role in my journey. Not because of ego, but because it keeps wedding photography fresh,
challenging, and creatively exciting for me. By entering awards, I’m constantly pushing myself to improve, to see moments differently, and to
strive for that image at every single wedding: the one that tells a complete story in a single frame.

Awards Are Not the Goal: The Couples Always Come First

That being said, it’s important to say this clearly: It’s not about the awards.

When I’m booked to photograph a wedding, I am 100% present. My focus is always on capturing the day for my clients, the story, the emotion, and the love my couples share. Every wedding deserves the same level of care, attention, and commitment, regardless of scale or location.

However, I’ll be honest, in order to give 100% of myself at every wedding, there also needs to be something that fuels the creative drive behind the scenes. For me, that comes from continually challenging myself and knowing that my work is evolving and being recognised within the industry by entering and winning awards.

grandmother sat in a chair highlighted and enjoying the wedding party while silhouettes of guests dance around her part of the Top 25 Wedding Photographer in the World Award
Groom kissing his brides hand as she stands up at the top table surrounded by silhouettes of guests as one of the image for Top 25 Wedding Photographer in the World Awards

Judging Prestigious Wedding Photography Awards

Over the years, I’ve been incredibly honoured to be invited to judge some of the most prestigious wedding photography awards in the world,
including:

Fearless Photographers
This Is Reportage
Masters of Wedding Photography
Fotografi-Cameramani in Romania

Judging at this level has had a massive impact on my own work. It’s helped me develop a deeper understanding of storytelling, timing,
composition, and what truly makes an image award-worthy. More importantly, it’s reinforced my love for documentary wedding photography
and creative storytelling.

Why Entering Awards Works for Me

Entering awards isn’t for everyone, and I completely understand that.
But for me, it’s been an essential part of my creative growth. I’m genuinely grateful to be recognised for my eye, my storytelling, and the
documentary moments I capture, as well as the more creative and artistic images I love making for my couples.

Dog peeking through the doors of the wedding with the bride and groom together at the top of the Isle by Natalie Martin Top 25 Wedding Photographer in the World
Kids playing on a large white bouncy castle in their wedding outfits with by Natalie Martin Wedding Photographer

Thank You

I want to say a heartfelt thank you to:

Every couple who has trusted me to tell their story

The judges and organisations who continue to recognise my work

I’m incredibly proud to have been named:

Top 10 Wedding Photographer in the UK by Masters of Wedding Photography

Top 25 Wedding Photographer in the World by Fearless Photographers

Thank you for being part of this journey.

Bridal party with the bride and groom in a beautiful room with large chandelier posing for a group photo lit with flash by Natalie Top 25 Wedding Photographer in the World

Who are Fearless Photographers?

Founded by Fearless Photographers, Fearless Photographers is an internationally recognised organisation that celebrates bold, creative, and emotionally powerful wedding photography. Known for its highly competitive image awards and rigorous judging process, the platform showcases photographers who capture genuine moments with artistry, storytelling, and technical excellence. Being named among the Top 25 Wedding Photographers in the World by Fearless Photographers is a prestigious achievement, recognising not only consistent award-winning work but also a photographer’s ability to document weddings in a unique, authentic, and fearless way.