Matt Rock - Documentary Photographer based in Kent

29 Mar

The Hog Roast Mystery – A Funny Documentary Wedding Photograph

Here is one wedding photograph that I made after hearing a conversation between two girls about the wedding breakfast

As a documentary wedding photographer, I’m always on the lookout for those spontaneous, unplanned moments that make a wedding truly unique. Ok the naturally directed couple portraits and family group shots are important but it's the unexpected moments that often become the most cherished memories. At this wedding of Sarah & Rob held at Allington Castle, Kent it was two young girls—rather than the bride and groom—who provided the best comedy of the day.

During the drinks reception, the guests were chatting and enjoying the atmosphere when two curious young girls wandered over to where the hog roast was slowly turning on the spit. They stood there for a moment, watching it rotate over the fire, their expressions filled with innocent curiosity.

I overheard their brief chat and it went something like this…

"What is that thing spinning around?"

"I dunno... maybe it’s a big chicken?" the other guessed, as they both studied it more closely.

Then, they overheard someone mention the dreaded words: "It’s a pig!"

The taller girl held her head in her hands with horror looking genuinely appalled. The other simply pointed at it and declared, "That’s disgusting! I’m never eating that!"

I managed to capture the exact moment their excitement turned into sheer disbelief, their tiny faces a mix of shock, betrayal, and outrage.

This is exactly why I love documentary wedding photography. These real, unscripted moments tell the true story of the day in a way that no staged shot ever could. It’s a reminder that weddings aren’t just about the formalities—they’re about joy, laughter, and, occasionally, two little girls vowing to give up pork forever after an unfortunate discovery.

So, if you’re planning your wedding and wondering if documentary photography is right for you, remember this: the best moments are often the ones you never planned for and if your wedding includes a hog roast, just be prepared for some unexpected reactions!