Embrace Authentic Wedding Photography Styles
- Shawn Eastman
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Weddings are a whirlwind of emotions, laughter, and those little moments that make your day uniquely yours. But when it comes to capturing those memories, how do you want your story told? If you’re anything like me, you want something real, something that doesn’t feel posed or staged. That’s where authentic wedding photography shines, especially when you embrace the magic of documentary wedding photography.
Why Authentic Wedding Photography Feels So Special
Let’s be honest - posed photos can sometimes feel a bit stiff, right? You smile, you say cheese, and click - but does that really capture the essence of your day? Emotional wedding photography is all about being in the moment. It’s about those spontaneous glances, the tear rolling down your cheek, or the cheeky grin from your best mate sneaking a dance move.
When you choose authentic photography, you’re saying yes to real emotions and real stories. It’s like having a fly on the wall who’s also your biggest fan, quietly capturing everything without interrupting the flow.
The result? Photos that make you feel like you’re reliving the day all over again.
How to Spot Authentic Photography in Action
Natural expressions: No forced smiles or awkward poses.
Candid moments: Laughs, tears, and everything in between.
Genuine interactions: Between you, your partner, family, and friends.
Unscripted details: The little things that tell your story.
What is the difference between editorial and documentary wedding photography?
You might have heard the terms editorial and documentary thrown around when discussing wedding photography styles. They might sound similar, but they actually have quite different vibes.
Editorial wedding photography is like a fashion magazine shoot. It’s polished, styled, and often involves some direction from the photographer. Think of it as storytelling with a bit of glamour and a lot of attention to detail. With editorial wedding photography, You’ll see carefully arranged poses, dramatic lighting, and a focus on aesthetics.
On the other hand, documentary wedding photography is all about capturing the day as it unfolds naturally. There’s no posing, no directing - just pure, unfiltered moments. It’s like a photojournalist’s approach, telling your wedding story through real-life snapshots.
Both styles have their charm, but if you want your photos to feel like a genuine reflection of your day, documentary photography is the way to go.
How to Prepare for a Documentary Wedding Photography Shoot
Now, you might be wondering - if the photographer isn’t directing, how do you get great photos?
The secret is in the preparation and mindset.
Choose the right photographer: Look for someone who specialises in authentic wedding photography and has a portfolio full of natural, emotional images. For example, I specialise in documentary wedding photography and cover all areas across Cardiff and South Wales.
Trust your photographer: Let them blend into the background and capture moments as they happen. The less you worry about posing, the more relaxed and natural you’ll be.
Focus on your day, not the camera: Enjoy every moment, from the nerves before the ceremony to the wild dance floor antics. The best photos come when you’re fully present.
Communicate your vision: Share what moments matter most to you. Whether it’s a quiet moment with your grandparents or the kids running around, your photographer can keep an eye out.
Keep things simple: Avoid overly complicated schedules or too many staged shots. The beauty of documentary photography is in the flow of the day.
Tips for Couples to Get the Most Out of Their Wedding Photos
Even though documentary wedding photography is all about natural moments, there are a few handy tips to help you get the best results:
Relax and breathe: Easier said than done, but try to enjoy the day without stressing about the camera.
Interact naturally: Hold hands, whisper jokes, or share a quiet moment. These interactions make for beautiful photos.
Include your loved ones: Genuine connections with family and friends add depth to your story.
Be yourself: Whether you’re a bit shy or a total party animal, your personality should shine through.
Plan some downtime: A few quiet moments away from the crowd can create stunning, intimate shots.
Why Documentary Wedding Photography is Perfect for You
If you want your wedding photos to be more than just pretty pictures, documentary wedding photography is a brilliant choice. It’s about capturing the story of your day - the laughter, the tears, the chaos, and the calm. It’s about memories that feel alive every time you look at them.
Plus, with a professional photographer on your side, you’re in safe hands. Couples often tell me my knack for blending into the background while catching those priceless moments helps the photos be as authentic as your love story.
So, next time you think about wedding photography, remember - it’s not just about the photos. It’s about the story they tell. And that story? It deserves to be told with heart, honesty, and a little bit of magic.
Ready to embrace authentic wedding photography? Your story is waiting to be captured.
