Natural Wedding Photography in Leigh-on-Sea – Claire & Tom’s Mexican-Themed Reception
Legra Tap & Kitchen, London Road, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex
In August 2025, I photographed a wedding reception for Claire and Tom at Legra Tap & Kitchen on London Road in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex. As a wedding photographer in Essex, I have covered many local celebrations, but this one was special. The couple wanted their evening captured in a completely natural, candid, unposed wedding photography style, which is exactly the way I love to work.
Claire first knew of me from my event photography work around Southend-on-Sea and had seen me at events she attended. She liked how I blended into the background, catching moments as they happened, and wanted the same approach for her own wedding celebration.
A Mexican Twist on a Leigh-on-Sea Wedding
From the moment I arrived at the venue, I could see this would be a lively evening. Mexican hats and colourful décor set the tone, and the food looked incredible, especially the jalapeño poppers, which were a big hit with guests. The Legra Tap & Kitchen team had everything laid out perfectly, with plenty of space for guests to mingle, relax, and later, dance.
For this type of reception, I use two DSLRs with a 35mm, 85mm, and telephoto lens. I worked without flash, relying on natural light for that timeless, authentic look. Shooting with a wide aperture allowed me to create beautiful background blur, perfect for intimate portraits and storytelling shots.
The Confetti Entrance
The guests were ready, the DJ was set up, and anticipation filled the air. When Claire and Tom arrived, confetti showered over them as they entered with their two children. It was a warm, happy welcome that instantly set the tone for the evening.
I moved quietly through the crowd, photographing guests chatting, laughing, and greeting the newlyweds. Some recognised me from past events and tried to act like I was not there, but that only added to the authenticity of the moments I captured.
Natural, Unposed Moments That Told the Story
Every wedding reception has those moments that stand out. For Tom, it was lining up tequila shots at the bar with his friends, a perfect nod to the Mexican theme. For Claire, it was being on the dance floor with her bridesmaids, completely in the moment, surrounded by laughter.
As the daylight faded and the music picked up, the dance floor came alive. From slow dances to energetic group moves, the evening unfolded naturally, giving me plenty of candid moments to capture.
Fast Turnaround for a Special Couple
I always aim to deliver wedding reception photographs within two weeks, but for Claire and Tom, I made sure the full gallery was ready in just seven days. I knew how important it was for them to relive the evening while it was still fresh in their minds.
This was a wedding reception that had everything I love as a photographer: a fantastic couple, a lively venue I know well, beautiful light, and guests who were a joy to photograph. If you are planning your own celebration in Leigh-on-Sea, you can find out more about my wedding photography in Leigh-on-Sea or my wider work as a wedding photographer in Essex. I would love to capture your day in a natural, storytelling style that lets the real moments shine.
