When it comes to choosing a wedding photographer, navigating through what the different styles are called can feel like stepping into a maze. I’m going to shed some light on the various photography styles and help you find the perfect fit for your big day.
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Documentary Photography
Your wedding day unfolds and every moment captured in its raw, unfiltered glory. That’s the essence of documentary photography – it’s all about chronicling real-life events in a way that tells a compelling story. No posing, no staged moments – just honest, authentic snapshots that transport you back to the emotions of the day. Think candid shots, spontaneous laughter, and intimate moments shared between loved ones.
Photojournalism
A similar idea to documentary photography, photojournalism aims to communicate something important through powerful imagery and is a term normally reserved for photographers working in the news and current events. The images are for the here and now. Some photographers do shoot weddings in a photojournalistic style and won’t pose anything at all at weddings, even group shots. Check out the amazing work of Tyler Wirkin.
Reportage photography
Reportage photography is also very like documentary photography and photojournalism and is generally a photographic account of the day, much like a reporter covering a news event. It’s all about gathering information through imagery, not words, and presenting it in a way that tells a cohesive story. This style may include historical images to further illustrate the narrative, providing a comprehensive overview of an event. In the wedding photography world there is an organisation called ‘This is Reportage’ – have a look and see if this is a style that resonates with you. It’s much the same thing as documentary photography.
Fine Art Photography
These images resemble paintings, with a focus on posed, stylized compositions that exude a sense of beauty and artistic elegance. There are some very talented photographers out there creating beautiful work. However, fine art photography lacks the candid spontaneity of other styles, offers a much more curated aesthetic and specific styles may date easily.
Editorial Photography
The essence of editorial photography is that the images are created with the intention of being published, often featuring glamorous poses and meticulously styled details. While editorial photography can result in stunning visuals worthy of a glossy spread, it may involve more directed posing and less emphasis on candid moments. More recently it has come to represent a modern trend of wedding photography – but be aware too that trends in photography can date quickly.
My personal style
My wedding photography style can be best described as a seamless blend of authenticity and storytelling. (I describe it as 95% documentary photography). I’m not just capturing moments; I’m weaving a narrative that reflects the true essence of my clients’ story. My approach is hands-off and un-staged, allowing the day to unfold naturally without any interference or manipulation.
Saying that, I do recognise the importance of some stunning couple shots and family group shots – they end up as historical documents that are handed onto the next generations. I am a bit of a ninja with these and some forward planning means that I can get through them in record time, with everyone looking great. I don’t put people in awkward poses, I direct them to look good being themselves. I also photograph all the details – these are important things that you have chosen for your day and they deserve to be recorded, basically, if it’s there, I will photograph it.
My focus though, is on documenting real-life events in all their raw and unfiltered glory. I thrive on capturing the fleeting moments – the laughter, the tears, the spontaneous gestures – that make each wedding unique. From wide shots that capture the grandeur of the occasion and the place you have chosen to get married in, to intimate close-ups that reveal the emotions bubbling beneath the surface, my lens is always searching for those authentic moments that tell the real story.
I truly believe that reality is often more beautiful than anything staged, and my images reflect that understanding. There’s no preconceived notion of what a wedding should look like; instead, I let the day unfold organically, capturing the light, the atmosphere, and the emotions as they naturally occur.
My style is not about perfection; it’s about capturing the genuine connection between people and the moments that matter most. I don’t photograph weddings as if they were a catalogue shoot; instead, I’m focused on capturing the relationships, the joy, and the love that fills the day.
My work may not always grace the pages of Instagram or glossy magazines, but that’s because I’m not concerned with fitting into a mould. I’m more interested in creating images that stand the test of time – images that will be cherished by you for years to come, not just for their aesthetic appeal, but for the emotions they evoke and the memories they preserve.
In the end, my goal is simple: to create a visual legacy that captures the true spirit of your wedding day – the love, the laughter, the people, and the joyous celebration of life and love. And when you look back on your wedding photos years from now, you won’t just see images; you’ll relive the emotions, the moments, and the love that made your day truly unforgettable.
Choosing your perfect match
Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of love, and your photographer plays a pivotal role in preserving those precious memories for years to come. Now that you’re armed with knowledge about the different photography styles, take your time, do your research, and find a photographer whose style resonates with your heart and soul. Consider your personal preferences, your wedding vision, and the vibe you want to capture on your big day. After all, these images will serve as a cherished reminder of the love, laughter, and joy that filled your wedding day.
Need more help? Check out this blog post: How to choose a wedding photographer.
