Hogarths is a boutique country-house hotel on Four Ashes Road in Dorridge, just outside Solihull. It's set in 32 acres of woodland and landscaped gardens, and it's licensed for ceremonies both inside the hotel and outside in the grounds.
I photographed a wedding at Hogarths in July 2026, a colourful Hindu wedding with an outdoor ceremony on a summer's day. This guide covers what the venue is like to photograph, my favourite spots, and how to plan your day so the photographs flow.
About Hogarths
The hotel has several function rooms, from the intimate Bridoon to the Coach House and the Garden Suite, its largest room. The venue lists capacity for up to 300 guests for a ceremony and 250 for a seated meal, and the hotel can sleep around 120 guests, with a complimentary bridal suite.
Outdoor ceremonies take place in the grounds, including a space the venue calls The Island.
Outdoor ceremonies on the lawn
Our ceremony took place outdoors under a mandap on the lawn, framed by flowers and a stone balustrade, with the gardens behind. An outdoor ceremony like this is wonderful to photograph: the light is soft and natural, family can gather close, and every ritual has a beautiful backdrop.
For Hindu and other multi-part ceremonies, I move quietly around the edges so I can capture the rituals, the details and the reactions of family without getting in the way.
The baraat
The arrival was one of the highlights of the day: dhol players leading the groom's family up the tree-lined drive, with a classic car following, and dancing all the way to the hotel. The long drive at Hogarths is perfect for this, giving everyone space and some lovely dappled light through the trees.
Portraits in the woodland gardens
The gardens are the hidden gem at Hogarths. There's a moss-covered stone bridge in the woodland, stone steps, open lawns and mature trees, all within a few minutes' walk of the hotel. A red lehenga against the greens of the garden is something special.
I'd allow around 30 minutes for couple portraits here, and if you're changing outfits for the evening, a few more minutes in the grounds in your second look is well worth it.
The reception and evening
The reception room was dressed with white flowers and greenery draped across the ceiling, and it filled with dancing as soon as the music started. The terrace doors open onto the gardens, which gives a bright, airy feel during the day and a nice spot for guests to spill out in summer.
Photography tips for a Hogarths wedding
Make the most of the grounds. The woodland bridge and stone steps are a short walk away, so build time for them into your plan.
Plan your outfit changes. If you're changing for the evening, let me know when, so we can grab portraits in both looks.
Give the baraat room. The tree-lined drive is perfect for it, and I'll be there to catch the dancing as it arrives.
Have a back-up for rain. The venue is licensed for indoor ceremonies too, so you're covered if the weather turns.
Think about a second photographer. For larger weddings, a second photographer can cover both families' preparations and the guests' reactions.
Real wedding photography at Hogarths
Hogarths wedding photography FAQs
Have you photographed weddings at Hogarths before?
Yes. I photographed a Hindu wedding at Hogarths in Dorridge in July 2026, with an outdoor ceremony on the lawn and the evening reception inside.
Where are the best photo spots at Hogarths?
The stone bridge and steps in the woodland gardens, the lawns and balustrade around the outdoor ceremony space, and the tree-lined drive.
Can you have an outdoor ceremony at Hogarths?
Yes. Hogarths is licensed for ceremonies both inside the hotel and outside in the grounds.
Do you photograph Asian weddings?
Yes. I love the colour, energy and family moments of Asian weddings, and I'll plan the timings with you so each ritual and tradition is covered.
How far is Hogarths from you?
Dorridge is within my usual area. I'm based in Whitchurch, Shropshire, and regularly photograph weddings across the West Midlands.
Which collection suits a Hogarths wedding?
For a full day here, my Platinum (7 hours, £995) and Diamond (9 hours with an album, £1,395) collections work well. If you'd like a film as well, the Ruby collection (£2,195) adds a dedicated videographer. See all the wedding collections.
Getting married at Hogarths?
If you're planning your wedding at Hogarths, I'd love to hear about your day and talk through how we can make the most of the venue.
Check my availability for your date, or see more real wedding photography.
Looking at other venues? See all the wedding venues I've photographed.
More weddings nearby: Mythe Barn, Atherstone and Grand Station, Wolverhampton.
Venue details are taken from Hogarths' published information and wedding directory listings. Please check with the venue for current packages and availability.
