Let’s talk wedding photography styles – because yes, it is a thing, and no, you’re not the only one who’s stared blankly at the words “fine art” and “documentary” and wondered if you were accidentally reading a wine list instead of researching your wedding photographer. (Honestly, I wouldn’t blame you if you poured a glass anyway.)
There’s a lot of jargon floating around in the wedding world – editorial, cinematic, raw, candid, romantic, moody, light and airy, dark and moody, documentary… the list goes on. And while some of it is helpful, it can also start to feel like you have to pick a “team” – like you’re choosing a house in Hogwarts.
But what if you didn’t have to choose?
What if your wedding photos could be beautifully composed and joyfully chaotic? Stylishly editorial and full of scrunched-up noses mid-laugh and champagne being spilled as someone attempts the worm?
So what’s the difference between “authentic and raw” vs “fine art and editorial”?
Let me break it down, without the fluff:
Authentic and raw photography is all about the real stuff. The real moments, the real laughs, the real teary-eyed glance your partner gives you when they think no one’s watching. It’s about grandma’s hands on yours, the muddy footprints on your dress after wandering through a field, and the sweaty, joyous dancefloor chaos at 10pm. It’s unposed. It’s unfiltered. It’s you.
Fine art and editorial, on the other hand, is the polish. Think magazine-worthy – romantic golden light, stunning compositions, and a sense of timeless elegance. It’s attention to the little details – the way your veil catches the breeze, or how the light dances across the glassware at your reception. It’s that feeling of “oh wow, is that me?!” when you see your portraits and you look like the absolute main character in a Vogue bridal spread.
And here’s the thing – I love both. But what I really love is blending them.
Why compromise when you can have both?
You deserve wedding photos that feel like you – not a version of you that’s been overly styled or so editorial it feels more fashion week than wedding day. But you also deserve the kind of imagery that gives you goosebumps – the photos you frame, the ones that sit proudly on your walls or in an heirloom album you’ll one day show your grandkids (while insisting you were, in fact, cool).
So, I blend wedding photography styles I shoot the raw, honest, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments – the hug that lingers, the happy tears, the slightly chaotic family photo where someone’s always looking in the wrong direction. And I also take the time to create space for those beautifully composed, editorial-style portraits that let your love – and let’s be honest, your incredible outfits – shine.
You don’t have to perform. You don’t have to pose like a stranger in your own story. But with a little gentle direction and a lot of connection, you’ll get photos that look like they belong in a magazine but still feel like you.
It’s your day, your way.
Because here’s the truth: your wedding day won’t be perfectly staged – and that’s a good thing. It’ll be full of character, charm, emotion, and probably a few curveballs (like your best man breaking his braces mid-speech or someone’s toddler putting a finger in the cake). And I’m here for all of it.
You shouldn’t have to choose between beautiful and real.
Let’s make magic that’s elegant and authentic, polished and personal, timeless and a bit wild around the edges. Because you’re not one-note, and your wedding photos shouldn’t be either.
Ready to get in touch, learn more, or book your wedding photography? Click CONTACT ME.
Otherwise, head BACK TO WEDDINGS to keep exploring.
