About Shan & Simon
“We don't believe a photograph has to be entirely spontaneous to feel genuine, nor that beauty should be left to chance.”
Based in Cape Town and photographing celebrations around the world, Thunder & Love is a wedding photography studio founded by Shanleigh and Simon Heale. With a background in art & design and a deep appreciation for art, fashion, light and the natural world, our work is rooted in a considered approach to beauty.
We observe, anticipate and gently direct, shaping light, movement and composition to create photographs that feel romantic, painterly and enduring. We are drawn to celebrations with a strong sense of place, style and personality, creating imagery that feels as beautiful in its own right as it does as a record of the day.
Our Approach
Our approach is intentional, intuitive and highly considered.
We won't leave your photographs entirely to chance. We look for beautiful light, interesting compositions and the moments worth creating, gently directing when it elevates the image and stepping back when the moment is better left untouched.
From the architecture and landscape to the smallest details, everything becomes part of the frame. The result is photography that feels effortless, while being anything but accidental.
AS SEEN IN
Testimonials
Shan and Simon, where to begin. You guys have a gift. Your art and craft exceeds all expectations. The photography, your style of capturing the moments so nothing seems forgotten, the ability to see the little moments and not be afraid to take risks .
We had a vision for our wedding, but the two of you elevated it in a way we never could have expected. These aren’t just wedding photos. They’re something far more unique and special.
Mel & Will
Testimonials
There are not enough words to explain what an incredible joy and privilege it was to work with Shan and Simon. They have this amazing ability to make what could have been a stressful day be fun and relaxed. The vision, the ideas and then the outcome have far surpassed anything we could have dreamed of for our wedding photography. Thank you for capturing the most amazing day of our lives and giving us these timeless memories to keep forever. Truly two of the most genuine, easy going, laugh a minute, brilliant artists that we will cherish forever. Thank you both from the bottom of our hearts.
Terri & Ben
Testimonials
Shan and Simon are phenomenal at what they do. We loved their shots on Instagram and knew we had to book them. We absolutely adore our photos ! They captured us, our guests, and the moments so perfectly - we couldn’t have asked for anything more.
They are also such a fun and lovely couple. They made us feel at ease in our first meeting, at our pre event, and throughout the wedding. We genuinely loved working with them, would 100% recommend them, and sort of wish we had another excuse to book them!!!
Emily & Tiaan
In pursuit of beauty.
We accept just fifteen celebrations each year, allowing every commission the time, care and creative attention it deserves. Each wedding is approached as a work of art, crafted with intention and created to endure for generations.