Documentary vs. Traditional: Different Wedding Photography Styles Explained

Jenny Hyrzell
 | 
October 19, 2023
A photograph of a bride and groom exchanging vows in a natural outdoor sett

Key Points 

  • Documentary wedding photography focuses on capturing natural and unposed moments
  • Traditional wedding photography involves more posed and formal portraits
  • Documentary photography has a candid and unobtrusive approach, while traditional photography is more directed
  • Documentary photography has minimal retouching, while traditional photography involves more extensive editing
  • Documentary photography aims to capture genuine moments and emotions, while traditional photography focuses on creating a narrative
  • Choose the style that aligns with your personal preferences, wedding theme, and desired outcome
A photograph of a bride and groom exchanging vows in a natural outdoor sett

Introduction

Wedding photography is an essential aspect of capturing the special moments of a wedding day.

It allows couples to relive their cherished memories for years to come.

There are various styles of wedding photography, each with its own unique approach and aesthetic.

Choosing the right photography style is crucial as it sets the tone for how the wedding day will be documented. It is important to consider the couple's preferences, the overall theme of the wedding, and the desired outcome of the photographs.

A candid photograph of the bride and groom during their wedding ceremony. T

Documentary Wedding Photography

Documentary wedding photography, also known as photojournalistic or candid photography, focuses on capturing the natural and unposed moments of a wedding day. The photographer takes a hands-off approach, allowing the events to unfold organically without interference.

This style aims to tell a story through the photographs, capturing the emotions, interactions, and details that make each wedding unique. The photographer blends into the background, capturing candid shots of the couple, their families, and the guests.

Characteristics of Documentary Wedding Photography:

  • Authentic and unposed moments
  • Emphasis on capturing emotions and interactions
  • Minimal interference from the photographer
  • Storytelling approach
A side-by-side comparison of a documentary-style photograph and a tradition

Traditional Wedding Photography

Traditional wedding photography captures the elegance and timeless beauty of a wedding day.

With carefully posed portraits and attention to detail, it creates stunning images that will be cherished for generations to come.

Traditional wedding photography, also known as posed or classic photography, follows a more structured and formal approach.

The photographer takes control of the scene, directing the couple and the guests to create specific poses and compositions.This style aims to capture the traditional and timeless aspects of a wedding, focusing on formal portraits of the couple, their families, and the bridal party.

The photographer pays attention to details such as the wedding dress, the rings, and the venue.Features of Traditional Wedding Photography:Posed and formal portraitsAttention to details and aestheticsControlled and directed scenesClassic and timeless approach

Key Differences Between Documentary and Traditional Styles

When it comes to wedding photography, there are two main styles that couples can choose from: documentary and traditional. While both styles aim to capture the special moments of a couple's big day, there are key differences in their approach, posing, editing, and storytelling.

Approach

Documentary wedding photography takes a candid and unobtrusive approach.

The photographer focuses on capturing the natural moments and emotions as they unfold, without interfering or directing the couple or guests.

On the other hand, traditional wedding photography involves more posed and staged shots.

The photographer takes control of the scene, arranging the couple and guests in specific poses and capturing more formal portraits.

Posing

In documentary wedding photography, the emphasis is on capturing the couple and guests in their most authentic and spontaneous moments.

The photographer aims to capture the natural interactions and emotions without intervening or directing the subjects.

In contrast, traditional wedding photography involves more directed posing.

The photographer guides the couple and guests into specific poses and positions to create more formal and posed portraits.

Editing

The editing style also differs between documentary and traditional wedding photography.

Documentary photography tends to have a more natural and photojournalistic editing style, with minimal retouching and manipulation.

The focus is on preserving the authenticity and raw emotions of the day.

Traditional wedding photography, on the other hand, often involves more extensive editing, including retouching, color correction, and enhancing the overall aesthetic of the images.

Storytelling

One of the key differences between documentary and traditional wedding photography is the approach to storytelling.

Documentary photography aims to tell the story of the day as it unfolds, capturing the genuine moments and emotions.

The focus is on capturing the candid and unscripted moments that reflect the couple's unique love story.

Traditional wedding photography, on the other hand, focuses more on creating a narrative through posed and staged shots.

The photographer works to create a series of images that tell a cohesive and visually appealing story.

Aspect Documentary Style Traditional Style
Approach Candid and unobtrusive Posed and directed
Posing Natural and spontaneous Formal and posed
Editing Minimal retouching Extensive retouching
Storytelling Emphasis on capturing moments and emotions Focus on traditional shots and group portraits
Style Photojournalistic Classic and timeless
A posed photograph of the bride and groom in a classic wedding pose. The im

Choosing the Right Style for Your Wedding

Choosing the right wedding photography style is an important decision that couples need to make based on their personal preferences, wedding theme, and desired outcome. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the most suitable style for your special day.

Personal Preferences

Consider your personal preferences when it comes to photography.

Do you prefer candid and natural shots or more posed and formal portraits?

Think about the style that resonates with you and reflects your personality as a couple.

Wedding Theme

Take into account the theme and vibe of your wedding.

If you're having a rustic outdoor wedding, a documentary style might be a great fit to capture the natural surroundings and candid moments.

If you're having a glamorous and elegant affair, a traditional style with more posed shots might complement the formal atmosphere.

Desired Outcome

Think about the end result you envision for your wedding photos.

Do you want a collection of candid and emotional moments that tell the story of your day?

Or do you prefer a more polished and posed look?

Consider how you want to remember your wedding day and choose a style that aligns with your vision.

Conclusion

A collage of wedding photographs showcasing different styles, including doc
Choosing the right wedding photography style is crucial to capturing the essence of your special day.

Make sure to consider your personal preferences, wedding theme, and desired outcome when making this important decision.

In summary, there are two main wedding photography styles: documentary and traditional.

Documentary photography focuses on capturing candid and unscripted moments, while traditional photography involves more posed and staged shots.

The choice of style depends on personal preferences, wedding theme, and desired outcome.

It's important to select the right style to ensure that the essence of your special day is captured in a way that resonates with you as a couple.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of wedding photography styles?

The different types of wedding photography styles include traditional, photojournalistic, documentary, fine art, and vintage.

What is documentary style wedding photography?

Documentary style wedding photography is a style that focuses on capturing candid and spontaneous moments throughout the wedding day. The photographer aims to tell a story by documenting the events as they unfold, without interfering or posing the subjects.

What is documentary style of photography?

Documentary style of photography is a genre that aims to capture real-life situations and events in an unobtrusive and candid manner. It focuses on capturing genuine moments and emotions without any staging or interference from the photographer.

What is the difference between traditional and modern wedding photography?

The difference between traditional and modern wedding photography lies in the approach and style.

Traditional wedding photography typically involves posed and staged shots, with a focus on capturing formal portraits of the couple and their families.

Modern wedding photography, on the other hand, embraces a more photojournalistic and candid approach, capturing the natural moments and emotions of the day.

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