Choosing the right photography style for your wedding is essential to ensure your big day is captured just the way you envision. In another post, I explained what to look for when hiring a wedding photographer.
Here’s a guide to help you decide which wedding photography style suits you best.
By Natasha Lamalle Photography
1. The Different Styles of Wedding Photography
Before making a decision, familiarize yourself with the various wedding photography styles. Here are the most common ones.
- Traditional/Classic: Focuses on posed shots and classic compositions. This style includes key moments like the first kiss, cutting the cake, and family portraits. This type of photography usually edits in “light and airy”, which is a soft light, and usually only uses natural and outdoor light.
- Photojournalistic/Documentary: Captures candid, unposed moments throughout the day. This style tells the story of your wedding as it unfolds naturally, emphasizing genuine emotions and interactions. This is what I personally specialize in (check my portfolio). I would say that photographers like me tend to edit colors “true-to-life”, using shadows and contrast to create dramatic, emotional images. This style often has a more intimate and atmospheric feel.
- Fine Art: Artistic and creative, often using dramatic lighting and composition. This style produces visually stunning images that can look like works of art.
- Editorial: Inspired by fashion magazines, this style includes stylish, posed shots with a focus on elegance and glamour. It’s often more directed and staged than other styles.
By Natasha Lamalle Photography
2. Reflect on Your Personal Taste
Think about what you and your partner like in terms of aesthetics and photography. Consider the following questions:
- Do you prefer posed photos or candid shots?
- Are you drawn to bright and airy images or darker, more dramatic ones? Or are accurate colors important, and do you like true-to-life photos better?
- Do you want your photos to look timeless or more artistic and creative?
Looking at your favorite photos of the two of you can also give insight into your preferred style.
By Natasha Lamalle Photography
3. Review Photographers’ Portfolios
Once you have an idea of the style you prefer, review photographers’ portfolios to see whose work resonates with you. Look for consistency in their style and quality across different weddings. Pay attention to how they capture key moments and how they handle different lighting conditions.
On my website, you can check a wedding that was a “beach wedding” and a “urban wedding” or any other typical vibe people want to have for their wedding. I always try to showcase wedding that are drastically different to show how I can document any type of wedding and how it can look like for your own.
By Natasha Lamalle Photography
4. Discuss with Your Photographer
Once you’ve shortlisted potential photographers, have a detailed discussion about their approach and style. Ask them to explain how they plan to capture your wedding day and how they work in different environments. Ensure they are flexible and can adapt to any specific requests you might have.
By Natasha Lamalle Photography
In another post, I wrote the questions you might want to ask your photographer. I also explained what questions I ask my potential couples. There is nothing better than a conversation with someone to see if you’re a good fit!
5. Think About the Experience
Consider how the photographer’s style will impact your wedding day experience. For example:
- A documentary photographer will blend into the background and capture moments as they happen, allowing you to enjoy your day without much interruption.
- A fine art or editorial photographer may require more direction and posing, which can take up more time but result in stunning, stylized images.
Choose a style that aligns with how you envision your wedding day unfolding. If you don’t want to stop every hour to pose for the camera, I would avoid having a photographer that shows people posing. Don’t forget that even if it seems candid, a portrait is usually posed and directed. Only documentary photographers would never interrupt your wedding day at key moments.
By Natasha Lamalle Photography
6. Trust Your Instincts
Ultimately, go with the style and photographer that feel right to you. Trust your instincts and choose someone whose work makes you excited and confident about how your wedding memories will be preserved.
Choosing your wedding photography style is a personal decision that should reflect your taste and the kind of experience you want on your big day. By understanding the different styles, considering your personal preferences, reviewing photographers’ portfolios, and discussing your vision with potential photographers, you can find the perfect style to capture your wedding beautifully. Happy planning and if you like my style, you can contact me here.
