Understand the Different Photography Styles
Wedding photography can be categorized into several styles, and understanding the differences will help you choose one that aligns with your vision. Here are the most common photography styles:
- Traditional/Classic: This style features posed shots with a focus on formal portraits and family groupings. Think of the classic, timeless look with everyone smiling and looking directly at the camera.
- Photojournalistic/Documentary: This is an unposed, candid approach where the photographer tells a story through natural moments as they unfold. It’s perfect for couples who want their wedding day captured authentically, without interference or direction.
- Fine Art: Fine art wedding photography has a focus on composition, lighting, and artistic details. The images often have a soft, dreamy, and timeless feel, with an emphasis on beauty and elegance.
- Candid/Modern: Focuses on capturing real moments, emotions, and interactions as they happen naturally. While it’s often unposed, it may still involve some direction for creative shots. The style is typically light and fresh, and often combines elements from documentary and artistic photography.
- Editorial/Fashion: Inspired by high-fashion shoots, this style includes dramatic lighting, stylish poses, and magazine-cover-quality shots. If you want to feel like you’re in a bridal magazine, this is the style for you.
- Vintage/Retro: This style involves using film or digital filters to create an old-school feel, with soft colors, grainy textures, and an overall nostalgic vibe.
- Dramatic/Alternative: Bold, high-contrast, and often edgy. This style is for couples who want something more unconventional, with striking, emotional images that stand out.
Consider Your Personality and Wedding Theme
Do you prefer candid, real moments or posed portraits? If you’re shy or dislike being the center of attention, a photojournalistic or candid style might feel more comfortable. On the other hand, if you love the idea of posed, classic photos, a traditional or editorial style might be more your speed.
What kind of wedding are you having? The style of photography should reflect your wedding’s vibe. For example, a rustic wedding might be best captured with a more candid, documentary style, while a glamorous ballroom wedding might suit a fine art or editorial approach.
How do you want your wedding memories to feel? Consider whether you want your wedding photos to be timeless and elegant, fun and light-hearted, or dramatic and bold. The mood of your wedding day will influence how you want the photos to feel, so choose a style that aligns with your vision.
Think About Your Priorities
Determine what’s most important to you when it comes to your wedding photography. Here are a few aspects to consider:
- Capturing the Moments: If you prioritize documenting the emotions of the day and spontaneous moments, a documentary or candid photography style might be the best choice. You’ll get authentic, in-the-moment shots without any posing.
- Detailed & Artistic Shots: If you value the creative aspects of your wedding day, such as the decor, flowers, and details, a fine art photographer can capture these in a way that highlights beauty and elegance. This style often includes soft lighting and focus on the small things.
- Group and Family Photos: If having a lot of posed family and group shots is a priority for you, a more traditional approach may work best. A traditional photographer will ensure all of your family portraits are planned and executed.
Understand the Photographer’s Approach
Posing or Directing: If you’re looking for more formal, traditional shots, a photographer who directs the couple and guests more may be necessary. If you prefer to blend into the background and enjoy candid moments, a photographer with a documentary approach will allow you to be more natural.
Communication: Do you want a photographer who guides you through the day, suggesting poses, or one who stays mostly in the background capturing moments as they unfold? Some couples prefer guidance, while others like to remain unposed throughout the day.
Conclusion: Trust Your Instincts
Finally, trust your gut feeling. After all, your wedding photos are about how you feel on your day and how you want to remember it. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and express your preferences to us. You should feel comfortable and confident that our photographer understands your style, personality, and vision for your wedding photos. Choosing the right wedding photography style is key to creating lasting memories that reflect your unique love story
Traditional/Classic: Posed, timeless portraits
Photojournalistic: Candid, documentary-style, storytelling approach
Fine Art: Elegant, artistic with attention to details and light
Candid/Modern: Fun, spontaneous, and light-hearted
Editorial/Fashion: Dramatic and magazine-quality shots
Vintage/Retro: Nostalgic, with soft textures and colors
Dramatic/Alternative: Bold and edgy with high contrast