Brides who love a story-telling photography style are probably already in love with Lee Mann Productions Photography & Cinema (LMP Photography & Cinema). In fact, if you’ve never looked at their images, you should. This London-based company takes a team approach to each wedding day, using multiple talents and multiple shooters to capture the many moments that contribute to that story.

LMP is able to use a documentary and photojournalistic approach to each event by offering both videography and photography in their packages. By combining these services, LMP brides and grooms should be able to take home just about every memory of the day – not just the highlights.

So, with Lee Mann Productions’ focus on pushing the envelope, their pursuit of the most unique shots, different angles and perspectives, and because they also boast some of the newest equipment and technology in the industry, staff at The Ring met with Lee and Celia to find out more. What we found, among other things, was that this team appears to work seamlessly together. They're outgoing, yet professional and always look like they're having a blast – probably because they truly love what they do. We interviewed LMP and their brides and were impressed by what we found. Let us explain…

Personally speaking…

Lee Mann Productions Photography & Cinema is made up of a team of photographers and videographers who are dedicated to documenting those extraordinary moments. The team includes Lee, Celia, Ron and Aaron.

Owner, Lee Mann, takes a lead role in the company as Creative Director and a Lead Photographer. He's active in the cinema aspect of the company and says he’s had a camera in his hand since he could walk. In his teen years, Lee remembers spending most of his free time learning about technical and camera equipment and listening to many, many audio books. He’s always had a love for business and for being creative. His passion for photography must have become common knowledge because Lee was only fifteen when he was asked to shoot his first wedding!

Lee later made his talents official with a Media Production and Design course at Fanshawe College. That’s where he started getting into video, in addition to his still shots. That education and experience led him into producing video for clients, doing photography for the press and documenting weddings.

The doors of Lee Mann Productions officially opened in 2007. Lee says the company now does thirty-five to forty weddings per year, on average. And as the number of weddings has grown, so has the team.

Celia has been Second Lead Photographer and Administrative Correspondent at Lee Mann Productions since its launch. Her background in photography is similar to Lee’s, a mix of a lifetime fascination with the art as well as a college education. “I love people and working through details of the clients' day” she told The Ring. She puts a priority on making sure the bride and groom feel comfortable in front of the camera. Celia went to Humber College and has worked in the photography industry for over twelve years.

Ron, Technical & Lighting Assistant and Aaron, Cinematographer, are also part of the LMP Team. Lee says that Ron brings his technical skills to help aid the team, and his humour to help loosen up couples during their photo shoots.

Aaron and Lee went to high school together, and even back then, they were always buzzing with ideas from business to computers and cameras to production – their minds never stopped then, and still don't now. "Aaron was a key player in launching the new cinema package in Fall 2009 and we are so excited as many couples are already booking the photography/cinematography package for complete coverage of their day," says Lee. Aaron graduated from the University of Western Ontario's Film program.

The team approach difference...

Lee feels that it doesn’t matter how good of a photographer you are if there isn’t enough of you to go around. “If you are the only one, it is pretty tough to capture reactions of [many] different people at the same time." That's why Lee believes 100% in a team approach, and he leads by example in that way.

"We believe the Photography and Cinema Team combined as one is what makes the difference," says Lee. "The individuals on our team have specific roles to fill but have just one common goal for our clients – to provide the best stills and motion highlights of your day."

They did just that for Meagan and Christopher Golem, whose engagement and September 2009 wedding photos were done by Lee Mann Productions. Meagan says that what they liked best about Lee and his team was how versatile they were. "While one is setting up the shot of the best man giving his speech, the other is catching the groom laughing or the tear in the bride’s father’s eyes as he walks her down the aisle." She adds that she and Christopher felt comfortable during their photo shoots as the team was always cracking jokes and making them forget that they were having pictures taken. "By not having us pose, but instead just be with each other, our photos came out much more natural."

As a team of multiple photographers and cinematographers, Lee emphasizes that LMP can get more photos in a shorter time because "wedding parties have lots of fun with us and are not standing around bored… Time doesn't drag. Our team uses every minute." Lee also makes sure to use each of the team members' individual talents to make the day run as smoothly as possible.

Jenn and Mike Edwards hired Lee Mann Productions for their engagement photos and September 2009 wedding photos. Jenn says that she loved how they kept moving during their sessions with LMP. "I think it’s important to get as many different shots as possible. I liked that we were able to have both the traditional wedding photos as well as some offbeat ones."

Celia works closely with clients to help them with the timeline of their wedding day. "Her love for people shows as she seeks to always make our brides and grooms feel comfortable and make sure the wedding party has lots of fun," says Lee. He adds that Ron brings a fun approach to the team, so does Aaron who also loves connecting with the couples so they feel relaxed.

It also helps that the team works really well together – they're relaxed and have fun. "You will see us working with our ear pieces as we are wired up to communicate with each other," Lee explains. "People enjoy the experience. They like working with our enthusiastic team, having fun, getting lots of creative images and the time just flies by."

Pushing the photography envelope…

We could tell just by talking with Lee that's he's dedicated to always pushing the envelope – looking for the most unique shots, different angles and perspectives, and newest equipment and technology. In fact, the team told us that learning and making a difference is something that helps keep them inspired in their field. "Learning about new couples, how they met, got engaged and how to connect with them. Learning about the industry and the tools available. Learning how to become better as a person and a team. Learning how to teach others; then putting into practice what you learn. Making a difference in lives and in the industry," they told us.

We were also told that Lee, always looking for change to keep things fresh, is a great teacher because he leads by example. "He is a motivator for the team and challenges each one not to only do their best, but to never become accepting of a good job – go for more." He's always telling the team to go out and try at least one new thing each time they shoot. "Every meeting with the team is always about how to do better and what else would our clients like."

Jenn found Lee to be a dedicated and creative artist always looking to capture eclectic shots. "His photography speaks for itself," she adds. "Each photo has his signature ‘look’, yet complements the emotions/styles of each couple."

Photography and videography in one…

The new Photography and Cinematography Package now offered by LMP is what they think will be the big trend in 2010. "There are not many companies that offer both as a service under one team," says Lee. "The style of our cinematography is different and our couples are noticing that and like that. Change is very important to be able to give what your clients want."

In fact, the photography/cinematography package is already a popular one at LMP because people have always hired a photographer and often a videographer but they are usually two different individuals working on two different mediums.

One of our favourite things about LMP's videography is that they offer a five minute highlight video that incorporates still photos as well as video, which can easily be shared among family and friends.

Pricing it out…

The average couple spends around $3500 to $4000 for photography coverage and anywhere from $4000 to $6500, plus taxes, on photography and cinematography combined. Check out their website or inquire about specific package details and prices.

Meagan and Christopher found Lee Mann's prices to be very affordable. "They definitely fell within our budget and we felt that what we paid was nothing compared to the huge gift they gave us." The couple adds that they would definitely (and already have) recommend Lee and his team to anyone who is looking for "someone who is going to give them unique and fantastic photographs of their wedding day."

Walking you through…

Email and phone are the best ways to reach the LMP Team. As soon as they get an inquiry they say they do their best to respond as soon as they can. "We suggest that you should book eight to twelve months ahead, although it is best to book as soon as you know your wedding date." But, don't hesitate to email or call even on short notice as there might be a date available.

If they're available for your date, the next step is to meet with Celia or Lee to talk about your wedding. "As many details as possible are helpful – describing your style and what you like in photos," says Lee. At their home office, they'll show you their portfolio and answer any questions you have.

"Meeting with Lee and his team was very comfortable," say Meagan and Christopher. "We met at his house and just chatted, it was all very laid back and easy but still professional. His team is super friendly and made our whole experience very easy." Meagan adds that when she first met Celia, she was very welcoming and energetic, which made her feel good about the decision to hire Lee Mann Productions.

What Lee says is most important is that the team and the couple are a good fit so that on your wedding day, they can deliver what you like and you can just relax and have fun.

"From our first consultation we felt confident that working with the LMP team was going to fit our style perfectly," says Jenn, who adds that Celia's upbeat personality really gets you excited. Plus, it helped that Lee had an amazing portfolio that struck Jenn even years before she was engaged. "After seeing the full portfolio, I didn’t care how much it was. It’s what we wanted."

After you decide to book, a non-refundable 15% deposit is required with the balance due on your wedding day. The contract is signed and an E-Session is booked, if desired.

On the wedding day, Lee, Celia and Ron are present as your photography team, plus Aaron if you've booked cinematography, and possibly another assistant, too.

Photo locations are usually scouted out before hand so the team isn't wasting time on the wedding day. "We do like to choose spots that suit your style as well as ones that are unique and not used over and over again. We like creative shots so we're up to anything we can dream up or your suggestions are welcome as well." Even if that means the team members are climbing buildings, going through rivers or jumping on boats to get the shot. "We want each bride's story in photos to be different. That takes some prep work and we love to do that."

Meagan and Christopher can vouch for the claim that Lee and his team are willing to go that extra step to make your photos unforgettable as they climbed up a brick wall, camera in hand, just to lean over and get a great shot for their wedding. "His style and artistic eye make his photos almost his trademark."

The team also always comes prepared with additional lighting so your photos aren't at the mercy of the weather or the location.

LMP knows that there are many candid moments during the reception, so if you've booked them for the eight hour package, they try to cover as many shots of guests as possible along with special moments during the speeches. "We are always excited to capture those first dances, and the special intimate moments between father and daughter and the bride and groom, plus some fun shots of the wedding party."

One thing that LMP prides themselves on is their quick, post-wedding turnaround time. They know how excited everyone is to see their images, so they say they make it a priority. They told us that about thirty photos are available within a week on their blog, and within about six business days, your online gallery is ready.

About two weeks after your wedding, your high resolution DVD of images is ready. The best part? They don't limit the number of images you get!

Once you've chosen which photos you want to print, you can sit down with LMP and cash in that photo credit that comes with their packages.

A few fabulous wedding trends and ideas by LMP Photography & Cinema...

Lee Mann is seeing a rise in popularity of post-wedding shoots – whether it's one day or one year after the wedding. "Couples are more relaxed after their wedding day and we can do some incredible locations or shots that perhaps they couldn't do on their wedding day." Don't worry, though, they won't trash the dress unless you ask, but they are focused on getting the creative, artistic look. These After Shoots last about two hours and include an online gallery and a high res DVD of images.

Details, details, details

• Call or email LMP about 8 to 12 months before your wedding to book a consultation, check out their portfolio and tell them your love story so you can all get to know each other.
• A non-refundable 15% deposit is required to reserve your date, with the remaining balance due on the wedding day.
• The average couple spends about $3500 to $4000 on photography and $4000 to $6500 on photography and cinematophraphy at LMP.
• Blogs of about 30 photos are up within about 1 week of your wedding, your online gallery is up in about 6 business days, and your hi-res DVD of images is ready in about 2 weeks.

Contacting Lee Mann Productions Photography & Cinema

Lee Mann at LMP Photography & Cinema can be reached by email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by phone at 519-666-0105. You can also visit LMP Photography & Cinema online at http://www.leemannproductions.com.