Recently, the rise in popularity of “documentary style” wedding photography has inspired many photographers, myself included, to embrace a more candid and authentic approach to capturing wedding days. This trend has highlighted the beauty of unposed moments and the genuine emotions that naturally unfold.
While I find myself irresistibly drawn to these candid moments like a moth to a flame, this surge in documentary style photography has also prompted me to reflect on the importance of sharing why wedding photography should encompass so much more than just documentary style photos. For me, it’s about understanding a couple’s vision and being able to direct and advocate for them to ensure every moment is beautifully preserved. The multifaceted art of wedding photography is beautifully complex, driven by artistic intuition, and inspired by true connection. I dive in head first every single time.
Weddings are a unique blend of many different styles of photography, each contributing to a comprehensive and timeless visual narrative of your wedding day. From the intricate details of the decor to the grandeur of the venue, the intimate portraits of the couple and their loved ones, and the candid moments that tell the story as it naturally unfolds, each style plays a crucial role.
The Power of Details and Grandeur
The delicate details of your wedding decor and the grandeur of your venue set the stage for your celebration. Capturing these elements requires a keen eye for detail and a creative approach. The beautifully arranged flowers, the meticulously chosen centerpieces, and the elegance of the venue all contribute to the overall atmosphere. These photographs not only serve as a reminder of the thought and effort put into every aspect of your wedding but also add depth to your wedding album, creating a sense of place and occasion.
Intimate Portraits
Intimate portraits of the couple and their loved ones are another essential component. These photos capture the personal connections and relationships that make your wedding day so special. As a photographer, my goal is to create a relaxed and comfortable environment where you and your guests can be yourselves. This allows me to capture genuine expressions and interactions that reflect the love and joy of the day. Directed portraits can also be an opportunity to create stunning, artistic images that highlight the beauty and elegance of the couple, their attire, and the surroundings.
Candid Moments and Documentary Style
Of course, the candid, documentary style moments are where the magic truly happens. These are the unplanned, spontaneous interactions that tell the real story of your wedding day. From a tearful embrace with a parent to the laughter shared among friends, these moments capture the essence of your celebration. They are the heart and soul of your wedding album, providing a genuine and emotional narrative that you will cherish for years to come.
The Art of Balancing Styles
The key to successful wedding photography lies in knowing when and where to lean into these various styles. It’s about being able to step in and take the lead when needed, providing direction and art direction to ensure everything runs smoothly and looks its best. This might involve orchestrating a group photo, adjusting the lighting, or guiding the couple into a perfect pose. At the same time, it’s crucial to step back and let moments unfold naturally, capturing the genuine interactions and emotions that make each wedding day unique.
Your Vision, Our Expertise
As your wedding photographer, my goal is to blend these styles seamlessly to create a visual narrative that reflects your unique story. By understanding your vision and preferences, I can adapt my approach to suit your needs, whether it’s focusing more on candid moments, emphasizing artistic portraits, or highlighting the beauty of your venue and decor. It’s about being flexible and versatile, ensuring that every aspect of your wedding is beautifully documented. Our portfolio is full of emotive, joyful, sentimental and intentional moments and we are so thankful for every single one of them!
In conclusion, wedding photography is a multifaceted art that requires a delicate balance of different styles. It’s about capturing the emotions, the details, the grandeur, and the candid moments that together create a timeless and comprehensive story your wedding day. By understanding when to take the lead and when to step back, I strive to provide you with a collection of photographs that you will treasure forever.
Click here to view some of our favorite candid moments through the years.
