In the world of documentary photography, few names have made as significant an impact as Hollie Mateer. The Yorkshire-based photographer has just cemented her place in history by becoming the first person to win both the This Is Reportage Wedding Photographer of the Year and Family Photographer of the Year awards. This remarkable feat underscores Hollie’s ability to capture authentic, emotive moments—whether at weddings or in family life.
A Trailblazer in Documentary Photography
This Is Reportage is one of the most prestigious documentary photography platforms in the world, celebrating unposed and unstaged moments that showcase real emotions. With over 100,000 images submitted across various categories in 2024 alone, Hollie’s work stood out for its storytelling, composition, and raw emotional depth.
This is not Hollie’s first time making history. In 2023, she became the first UK woman to win This Is Reportage Wedding Photographer of the Year. Now, by winning both the wedding and family photography categories, she has set a new global benchmark in the industry.
Hollie’s Major Awards
2024 & 2023 This Is Reportage Wedding Photographer of the Year
2024 This Is Reportage: Family Photographer of the Year
2024 Masters of Wedding Photography UK Photographer of the Year
2024 International Wedding Photographer of The Year double category winner
2024 & 2022 Professional Photo Magazine Top 50 Wedding Photographers in the UK
2024 Mywed Awards category winner
2022 The Wedding Industry Awards National Photographer of the Year
2022 & 2020 The Wedding Industry Awards Yorkshire Photographer of the Year
2022 Rangefinder Magazine Rising Star of Wedding Photographer
2021 Photographers Keeping It Real Photographer of the Year
A Natural Approach to Photography
Hollie, along with her husband and business partner Patrick Mateer, co-runs The Mateers, a photography brand known for its pure documentary style. Their approach—eschewing posed and directed shots in favor of natural, in-the-moment captures—has earned them over 500 industry awards and an unwavering reputation among clients. Their no-posing, no-staging philosophy allows for genuine, deeply emotive images that resonate with their audience.
Reflecting on her success, Hollie shares:
“My passion is photography – getting to do it as a job makes me feel so lucky. For a long time, I had imposter syndrome, especially as a young female photographer in the wedding industry. I’ve learned to overcome this by creating work that truly represents me as an artist. It’s an honor to be recognized, but the most rewarding part is hearing from the couples and families I’ve photographed.”
A Photographer, Mentor, and Educator
Beyond her award-winning work, Hollie is deeply involved in the photography community as an educator and mentor. She frequently hosts workshops and presents at major photography conferences. Most recently, she was a speaker at NineDots Presents: Change, an event supporting homeless charities. She is also set to present at the Fearless and Masters Of Wedding Photography Conference in Belgium in 2025. Additionally, she has shared insights into breastfeeding photography for La Leche League, further showcasing her versatility as an educator.
Technical Expertise & Inspirations
Hollie’s creative process is heavily influenced by legendary reportage and street photographers such as Henri Cartier-Bresson, Joel Meyerowitz, Martin Parr, Alex Webb, Harry Gruyaert, and Vivian Maier. She shoots using Nikon Z8 cameras with Z lenses, Godox flashes, and Holdfast harnesses, ensuring the highest quality images. Her work is defined by bold colors, dynamic compositions, and an artistic flair that captures unexpected, often humorous, moments.
Looking Ahead
With an ever-growing list of accolades, Hollie continues to push the boundaries of documentary photography. Her bold compositions, dynamic use of color, and ability to find beauty in everyday moments set her apart as one of the most influential photographers of her generation.
For more on Hollie’s work, visit The Mateers at mandgweddingphotography.co.uk for weddings, for Hollie’s family photography thewildchildphotographer.co.uk or follow her on Instagram @wearethemateers