
Choosing your wedding photography style is one of the most important decisions you'll make when planning your big day. Your wedding photos will be cherished for a lifetime, so finding a style that resonates with your personality, vision, and aesthetic is key. But with so many options available, from traditional to documentary, fine art to modern, how do you decide?
As a professional wedding photographer in Cardiff, I’ve seen first-hand how these styles can bring out the unique beauty of a couple’s special day. Often times, I find that it's a blend of several wedding photography styles that seamlessly intertwine together that delivers the best results for the new bride and groom - so choosing the right wedding photographer for YOU as a couple is key.
Let’s break down 8 of the most popular wedding photography styles to help you discover which one (or ones!) is perfect for you.
Table of Contents
Traditional Wedding Photography
If you’ve ever seen a wedding album with posed family portraits and timeless images of the couple, you’re familiar with traditional wedding photography. This style focuses on structured, posed shots and ensures all the key moments - like the first kiss, cake cutting, and family group pictures - are beautifully captured.
Key Features:
Perfectly composed and lit photographs.
Focus on classic poses and formal shots.
Minimal candid or spontaneous moments.
Best For:
Couples who value timeless, elegant photos and want a comprehensive record of all the important moments.
Examples:
Documentary Wedding Photography
Documentary (or photojournalistic) wedding photography is all about storytelling. Instead of posed shots, the photographer captures candid moments as they happen, allowing the day to unfold naturally.
Key Features:
Unscripted and authentic moments.
Emphasis on emotions and interactions.
Minimal intrusion from the photographer.
Best For:
Couples who want their wedding photos to feel organic and natural, telling the story of their day through candid moments.
Examples:
Fine Art Wedding Photography
Fine art wedding photography combines creativity with elegance. This style focuses on using light, composition, and artistic techniques to create images that look like they belong in a gallery.
Key Features:
Highly stylised and artistic shots.
Use of unique angles, lighting, and post-processing.
Incorporates elements of fashion and editorial photography.
Best For:
Couples who appreciate artistic imagery and want their wedding photos to look like works of art.
Examples:
Modern Wedding Photography
Modern wedding photography is all about innovation and creativity. It blends techniques from various styles, like fine art and documentary, to create a fresh, edgy look.
Key Features:
Trendy editing styles, such as muted tones or vibrant colours.
Use of creative compositions and techniques.
Focus on individuality and unique moments.
Best For:
Couples who want their wedding photos to feel stylish, current, and uniquely theirs.
Examples:
Editorial Wedding Photography
Inspired by high-end magazines, editorial wedding photography emphasises dramatic poses and luxury. It’s perfect for couples who want their wedding to look like it’s straight out of Vogue and can be very similar in style to fine art wedding photography.
Key Features:
Carefully staged and styled shots.
Focus on fashion and luxury details.
High-end, glamorous vibe.
Best For:
Couples who love fashion photography and want their wedding album to have a chic, magazine-worthy aesthetic.
Examples:
Moody Wedding Photography
Moody wedding photography is characterised by dramatic lighting, rich tones, and emotional depth. It’s a style that evokes romance and intensity.
Key Features:
Dark, rich colour palettes.
Emphasis on shadows and highlights.
Captures raw emotion and atmosphere.
Best For:
Couples who want their photos to feel cinematic and emotionally evocative.
Examples:
Bright and Airy Wedding Photography
This style is the opposite of moody photography, focusing on soft, natural light and pastel tones. It creates a dreamy and romantic feel.
Key Features:
Light, pastel colour palettes.
Soft, ethereal lighting.
Romantic and whimsical atmosphere.
Best For:
Couples who love light, cheerful, and romantic imagery.
Examples:
Black and White Wedding Photography
Black and white photography strips away distractions, focusing on emotion and composition. It’s a timeless style that never goes out of fashion.
Key Features:
Classic, timeless aesthetic.
Emphasis on contrast and texture.
Evokes emotion and nostalgia.
Best For:
Couples who appreciate the simplicity and elegance of monochrome imagery.
Examples:
How to Choose the Right Wedding Photography Style
With so many styles to choose from, how do you decide which one fits your vision?
Here are some tips:
Consider Your Personal Style: Are you drawn to classic elegance, artistic imagery, or candid moments? Your preferences can guide your choice.
Think About Your Venue and Theme: A moody style might complement a rustic barn wedding, while a bright and airy look may suit a garden ceremony.
Review Portfolios: Look at different photographers’ work to see which style resonates with you.
Talk to Your Photographer: Share your ideas and ask for their input. Experienced photographers can adapt their approach to suit your vision.
Mix Styles: Many photographers blend styles to create a custom approach that captures every aspect of your day.
My Final Thoughts
Your wedding photos are more than just images; they’re memories that you’ll treasure forever. By understanding the different wedding photography styles, you can choose the one that best captures your love story.
Remember, the right photographer will work with you to ensure your vision comes to life, so take your time to explore portfolios and have open conversations with potential photographers. Your perfect style is out there - and it’s waiting to tell your unique story.
So, which wedding photography style speaks to you? Let’s make your dream wedding album a reality!
FAQs About Wedding Photography Styles
What are the main styles of wedding photography?
Wedding photography typically falls into several distinct styles:
Traditional/Classic: Posed, timeless portraits.
Documentary/Photojournalistic: Candid, storytelling images.
Fine Art: Artistic and creative, often with a dreamy or editorial feel.
Modern/Contemporary: Trendy, often using unique angles and post-processing techniques.
Editorial/Fashion: Inspired by magazine shoots, focusing on glamour and detail.
Understanding these can help you decide which vibe best suits your wedding vision.
How do I choose the right wedding photography style for my wedding?
Think about your personality, wedding theme, and what memories you’d like to preserve.
Love candid moments? Go for documentary.
Prefer timeless poses? Consider traditional.
Want creative flair? Explore fine art.
Your photographer's portfolio is a great guide - choose someone whose style resonates with your vision.
What is documentary wedding photography?
Documentary wedding photography is a popular style of photography that aims to capture your day naturally, without staged poses. It’s all about raw emotions, authentic moments, and telling the story of your wedding as it unfolds. Think of it as the "fly on the wall" approach, perfect for couples who want their photos to feel organic.
What is the difference between traditional and modern wedding photography?
Traditional photography focuses on posed and formal shots, like family portraits and iconic moments.
Modern photography leans towards creativity, unique angles, and trendy edits.
Both have their charm - it depends on whether you prefer timeless classics or something with a contemporary twist, or a blend of the two.
Is fine art wedding photography worth it?
If you’re drawn to photos that look like works of art, then absolutely! Fine art wedding photography is perfect for couples who value creativity, mood, and aesthetics. Keep in mind that it often involves a mix of posed and candid shots, with a heavy focus on lighting and composition.
Can a photographer combine multiple styles?
Yes, many photographers blend styles based on the couple's preferences and the flow of the day. For example, they might use documentary techniques during the ceremony, fine art for portraits, and traditional for family group shots. Discuss your desires during consultations to find a photographer versatile enough to meet your needs.
What is editorial wedding photography?
Editorial wedding photography draws inspiration from magazine-style shoots. It’s glamorous, stylish, and often dramatic, focusing on the finer details, fashion, and high-impact poses. This style is ideal for couples who want their wedding photos to feel like they belong in a luxury publication.
Are candid photos better than posed ones?
It depends on your preference! Candid shots capture genuine emotions and unscripted moments, while posed photos ensure everyone looks their best in a controlled setting. A balance of both often creates the most well-rounded wedding albums.
Is black-and-white wedding photography a specific style?
Black-and-white photography isn’t a standalone style but rather a technique that can enhance any style. It’s often used to add timelessness, emotion, or drama to specific shots. Many photographers include a mix of colour and black-and-white images in their galleries.
What is lifestyle wedding photography?
Lifestyle wedding photography is a mix of candid and directed shots. It’s about creating natural moments with gentle guidance from the photographer. Think of it as “posed candid” photography, where the images feel spontaneous but are subtly planned for aesthetic appeal.
How do I know if a photographer’s style matches my vision?
Start by reviewing their portfolio and full wedding galleries. Look for consistency in their style and whether their images evoke the emotions or look you’re after. Schedule a consultation to discuss your vision and see if they’re on the same page.
What is the most popular wedding photography style?
Documentary photography is currently trending because couples love its natural and emotional storytelling approach. However, traditional and fine art styles remain popular for their timeless appeal.
Can I request specific styles or shots from my photographer?
Absolutely! Communication is key. Share your preferences and any must-have shots during the planning process. Most photographers are happy to tailor their approach to your needs.
Is traditional wedding photography outdated?
To a degree - either way, it will always remain highly influential on more modern photography styles. While other styles have gained popularity, traditional photography does still remain a cornerstone for many couples who value classic, posed images. It’s especially appreciated by families who cherish formal portraits.
Do modern wedding photographers use filters or heavy editing?
It depends on the photographer. Some prefer natural editing to enhance colours and lighting, while others use dramatic filters or artistic effects. Clarify your preferences to ensure the final images match your expectations.
How does lighting affect wedding photography styles?
Lighting plays a huge role in defining style.
Soft, natural light suits fine art and documentary styles.
Dramatic lighting enhances editorial photography.
Flash or artificial light is often used for traditional indoor shoots.
Discuss your venue and timing with your photographer to maximize the lighting.
Are there any trends in wedding photography styles?
Yes, some current trends include:
Moody tones for a cinematic feel.
Light and airy edits for a romantic vibe.
Drone photography for unique perspectives.
These trends often blend with established styles, like fine art or modern.
What’s the difference between fine art and documentary photography?
Fine art focuses on creative, stylised, and sometimes abstract shots.
Documentary captures real moments without interference.
Fine art is about artistry, while documentary is about authenticity.
How should I prepare for my wedding photography session?
Discuss your preferred style with your photographer.
Share a shot list for must-have moments.
Plan your timeline to allow for optimal lighting and minimal stress.
Trust your photographer - they’re the expert!
Can I mix styles in my wedding album?
Yes, and it’s a popular choice! A mix of styles - like candid documentary shots, fine art portraits, and traditional group photos - creates a diverse and compelling wedding album. It also ensures every aspect of your day is beautifully captured.