Wedding photography styles can get very confusing very fast. That's why it can get very intimidating to choose a wedding photographer if you can't pinpoint their exact style.
Here’s a quick guide to let you know what you’re in for.
Three Major Wedding Photography Styles
These are the most common photography styles you'll be seeing.
Traditional
Photo from our French Garden Wedding collection
The traditional photography style is characterized by posed, formal shots of the wedding party and guests. These types of photos are typically carefully planned and composed, and often include traditional wedding poses such as the "bride and groom" pose or the "wedding party" pose. This is a classic choice for couples who want timeless, classic images of their big day.
Documentary
Photo from our Casual and Chic City Wedding collection
Meanwhile, documentary or photojournalistic photography, focuses on capturing candid, spontaneous moments as they unfold. Here, photographers strive to document the wedding day as it happens, without interfering or posing subjects. This style is ideal for couples who want a true-to-life representation of their wedding day.
Artistic
Photo from our Lavish Manila Wedding collection
Artistic wedding photography is a more creative and expressive style that emphasizes the vision of the photographer. Artistic wedding photographers can put own spin on the images via post-processing through the use of lighting, composition, other techniques. This style is perfect for couples who want unique, artistic images that showcase their personalities and style.
There are many other sub-styles within these three main categories, and some photographers may blend elements of different styles to create their own unique approach to wedding photography.
Other Wedding Photography Styles To Consider
Fine art
Photo from our Bright and Romantic Wedding collection
Fine art photography is a highly stylized, artistic approach that emphasizes the aesthetic beauty of the wedding day. Photographers will often use a mix of traditional and artistic techniques to create timeless, romantic images that have a classic feel.
Cinematic
Photo from our Outdoor and Elegant Engagement collection
Meanwhile, this style combines elements of traditional, documentary, and artistic styles to create a film-like quality in the images. Cinematic photographers often use creative lighting, composition, and post-processing techniques to give the images a dreamy, ethereal look.
Vintage
Photo from our Classic Romantic Wedding collection
On the other hand, this retro-inspired style that captures the romance and nostalgia of a bygone era. Photographers often use vintage cameras and film stocks, as well as vintage-inspired props and backdrops, to create an aged look and feel in the images.
Destination
Photo from our California Wedding collection
Destination wedding photography is a style that focuses on capturing the unique beauty and culture of the location. Photographers often use a mix of traditional and artistic techniques to create images that showcase the beauty of the location and the emotions of the day.