I consider myself a Documentary style wedding photographer, but what does that actually mean? Documentary Style Wedding Photography is all about telling the real, unscripted story of your wedding day. Instead of posed wedding photos and staged moments, this approach focuses on capturing emotions, interactions, and fleeting details as they naturally unfold.
If you love candid moments, emotional interactions, and storytelling through images, this style is perfect for you!
In this article I’ll cover:
- Why Choose Documentary Style Wedding Photography?
- How It Differs From Traditional Wedding Photography
- What to Expect from a Documentary Wedding Photographer
- How to Prepare for a Documentary-Style Wedding Photoshoot
- FAQs About Documentary-Style Wedding Photography
Why Choose Documentary Style Wedding Photography?
Your wedding day will be filled with incredible emotions, love, and once-in-a-lifetime moments. Documentary wedding photography allows you to:
- Relive real emotions – Every laugh, tear, and hug is captured exactly as it happens.
- Feel comfortable and natural – No stiff posing, just genuine moments. Here’s to not even thinking about what to do with your hands! 🥂
- Have a unique wedding album – Your photos will be one-of-a-kind because they reflect your day, not a cookie-cutter template.
- Experience the full story – From small details to grand moments, everything is documented beautifully (even moments you might have missed) ✨
How It Differs From Traditional Wedding Photography
| Feature | Documentary Style | Traditional Style |
| Posing | Unposed, natural moments | Directed, formal poses |
| Approach | Observational storytelling (I personally also do some gentle, authenticity-focussed direction for portraits) | Photographer-led |
| Emphasis | Emotion, connection | Composition, perfection |
| Editing Style | True-to-life, timeless | Sometimes heavily edited |
| Best for Couples Who | Want an authentic story | Prefer classic portraiture |
Interested in reading about other styles of wedding photography? I like this article on The Knot!
What to Expect from a Documentary Wedding Photographer
1. A Discreet Presence
Your photographer will blend into the background, capturing real moments rather than directing them. This allows you and your guests to fully immerse in the day without feeling like you’re in a photo shoot.
2. Storytelling Through Images
Every wedding has a unique rhythm. A documentary photographer will follow this natural flow, capturing everything from morning preparations to the dance floor joy.
3. Authentic Emotions, Not Just Pasted Smiles
You’ll get wedding photos that tell the real story—happy tears, emotional speeches, tight embraces, and spontaneous laughter. Candid photos for the win!
4. The Unexpected Beauty of Imperfection
Unlike traditional posed portraits, documentary photography embraces the unpredictable—wind in your hair, children playing under tables, the little glances that say everything.
How to Prepare for a Documentary-Style Wedding Photoshoot
Even though this candid photos approach is natural and unposed, a little preparation can help ensure your photographer captures your day beautifully.
1. Choose a Photographer Who Matches Your Vision
Not every photographer specializes in this style. Look for someone whose portfolio reflects true candid storytelling and resonates with you emotionally ❤️ This can’t be overstated! A ‘vibe fit’ is JUST as important as a style fit.
2. Be Present in the Moment
Do your best to forget about the camera and just enjoy your wedding day. If you feel yourself getting nervous about the presence of a camera, take a moment to just look around at your favourite people, breathe, and let the present moment really sink in.
3. Trust Your Photographer
Resist the urge to control every detail. Trusting your photographer allows them to capture magic as it naturally unfolds. That’s what documentary style photography is all about.
FAQs About Documentary-Style Wedding Photography
1. Will I still get family portraits?
Yes! While the main focus is on candid moments, most documentary photographers still set aside time for essential family portraits. This may not be the most exciting part of your day, but these are important photos for you and your loved ones.
2. What if I feel awkward in front of the camera?
That’s the beauty of this style! Since there’s no posing, you won’t feel pressured to “perform.” You just get to be yourself.
3. Will my photos be edited?
Yes, but the editing will enhance rather than alter. Expect natural tones, true-to-life colors, and a timeless look.
Final Thoughts: Is Documentary Wedding Photography Right for You?
If you want photos that feel real, emotional, and uniquely yours, documentary style photography might be the perfect fit. It allows you to fully experience your wedding day while your photographer captures every genuine moment.
Ready to Capture Your Love Story?
If documentary-style wedding photography and candid images speak to your heart, let’s chat! I have flexible wedding packages and pricing, and I’d love to help tell your story in the most authentic way possible. Let’s connect to discuss your dream wedding or elopement vision!
