Nicci and Mark's Wildly Beautiful Wedding at Phinda Game Reserve
A Love Story Born in the Bush
Nicci and Mark's story is started in the heart of the African wild. She worked at Phinda Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal and Mark was the head game ranger. They met and fell in love.
When they asked me to be their Phinda game reserve wedding photographer, I knew it would be something extraordinary. They flew me and my assistant out to the reserve, and from the moment we arrived, I loved it. I've always loved the bush!
Connection, Camaraderie and Celebration
What stood out immediately was the genuine connection between everyone present. Mark's groomsmen were clearly lifelong mates, there was a lot of banter! Nicci's bridesmaids were similar. Every family interaction felt real and amazing, which is exactly the kind of energy I love to photograph.
The ceremony was filled with highs: the breaking of the glass, the laughter, and the incredible dancing that followed. The hora brought the house down and for a moment it looked like Mark might be shot through the roof! This was not a staged event. It was alive, rich with personality, culture and joy. We even had zulu dancing as well!!
Shooting in the Wild
Taking family portraits in a reserve with no fences and real wild animals around was a new level of focus for me. I kept reminding myself that I was surrounded by professional game rangers. If they were calm, I could be too. Still, the awareness was always there. They were quite amused at my reservation.
The Aftershoot
The following day, Nicci and Mark had arranged for an aftershoot, something I always recommend if you're open to it and your budget allows. We ventured back into the reserve, the light was stunning and tbe background as raw as the bush is.
I'll never forget this! At one point, Mark pointed to a spot and casually said, "This is where we walked smack bang into three lionesses the other day." I asked what they did. His reply: "In situations like that, you stand your ground and slowly move back." They always carry a rifle, but it was only for last-resort emergencies. Luckily, those are exceptionally rare.
What a Privilege
It’s not every day you get to photograph a wedding in such a setting. Being a Phinda game reserve wedding photographer for Nicci and Mark was not just a job. It was a privilege. The people, the place, and the sheer beauty of it all made this one of the most memorable weddings I’ve ever had the honour to capture.