Normandy offers something rare — cinematic light, dramatic coastlines, centuries-old châteaux and a countryside that feels both grand and intimate, all within easy reach of Paris and the Channel. For couples coming from the UK, the US or further afield, it is one of the most accessible and photogenic corners of France to marry in. Here is what you need to know.
You'll be understood — in English.
The biggest worry for couples marrying abroad is language. I'm an English-speaking photographer based in Saint-Lô, in the heart of Normandy, so every conversation — from your first enquiry to the day itself — happens in clear English. My work has been ranked World TOP 2 at the ISPWP Awards (2022) and TOP 10 at Fearless Photographers (2023), and I sit on international contest juries — but what matters on your day is that you feel completely at ease.
A word on the legal side.
Legally marrying in France involves residency requirements that most international couples find impractical. The elegant, common solution is to hold your legal ceremony at home, then celebrate with a symbolic or humanist ceremony in Normandy — free of paperwork and entirely yours. Many couples also choose to elope: just the two of you, the landscape, and your photographer. I'm happy to talk you through whichever path suits you.
Wedding photographer in Normandy, France · Arnaud Chapelle
Where to celebrate.
Normandy's venues range from grand châteaux to intimate manor houses. Among the places I know and have photographed: the Château de la Roque near Saint-Lô, the Domaine de la Palombe, the Château de la Crête near Granville, and the Château les Hauts at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas — which looks out over the bay of the Mont-Saint-Michel. In the Calvados, the Manoir de Chivré and the Domaine de la Cour des Lys between Caen and Bayeux. And of course the icons: the Mont-Saint-Michel, the D-Day coast, and the elegant seaside towns of Deauville and Honfleur.
A Normandy château wedding · Arnaud Chapelle
Getting here.
Normandy is roughly two hours from Paris by train, and well connected to the UK by the Channel ports and ferries, and to the rest of the world via Paris airports. Wherever you celebrate in Normandy — or anywhere in France — I travel to you.
Documentary & cinematic wedding photography · Arnaud Chapelle
My approach.
Documentary and cinematic: no stiff posing, no forced scenes. I move through your day like a discreet guest, capturing what truly happens — the emotion, the light, the in-between moments you'll want to relive in thirty years.
Arnaud Chapelle — English-speaking, internationally awarded wedding photographer
Saint-Lô · Manche · Calvados · Normandy · ISPWP World TOP 2 2022 · Fearless TOP 10 2023
Planning a wedding in Normandy or France?
Planning a wedding in Normandy or France?
Let's talk.
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