In this post, we will explore what documentary style wedding photography is. We’ll also explore whether it might be right for you!

Documentary style wedding photography is candid, fun, honest, nostalgic and personal.

To get an idea of what a full wedding gallery looks like, you can visit my gallery page!

What is Documentary Photography?

Firstly, what is documentary style photography?

If you’ve heard of candid photography, photojournalism or documentary style – they are all similar! They focus on capturing an event as it happens.

The website for the Tate museum has a great page that explores this style in depth.

Essentially, a documentary style photographer will capture the events of your day as they unfold. They will be on the look out for what makes your day unique and honor YOUR story.

Documentary vs Candid

Documentary and candid styles are essentially the same. However, documentary style really focuses on storytelling.

A candid photograph is a photo that is unplanned. The subject might not even know that they are being photographed! There might be some direction for the photographer, but very little posing.

Documentary photography is similar, but the photographer also focuses on capturing images that are interesting to look at. Photographers that specialize in this style are often more experienced in their art!

Documentary style photographers also aim to capture the emotion of the moment. you should be able to look at a documentary style photograph and be transported back to the moment.

For a more in depth understanding, this article from the Neiman Foundation at Harvard does a great job of explaining.

What does documentary style mean for your wedding?

Below are a few key things that documentary style wedding photographers do on your wedding day. These will differ from other styles of photography.

1. Candid photos – The photographer will focus on capturing natural expressions, laughter, tears and everything in between.
2. Natural Edits – Many photographers with this style will have a natural, true to color editing style. That’s because they aim to capture the day as it is.
3. Relaxed wedding day – Getting in front of the camera can be nerve wrecking for some people. With a documentary style photographer you’ll spend more time just enjoying the day!
4. Authenticity – The moments in your wedding photos will be ones that actually happened. No fake smiles or awkward posing.
5. A Story – This style of photography means your photos will tell a story. They will be an experience for you to look back on. Future generations will also be able to enjoy them!

I don’t know what to do in photos! Will my photographer help?

This depends on the photographer, but most seasoned photographers should be able to guide you!

A good documentary style photographer understands that there are moments that should be fully candid, AND moments that should be guided like family photos or couple’s photos.

Experienced photographers also know how to make your photos look good! They may ask you to move toward a window with better lighting, or suggest where to stand to get a good angle.

Note: Be careful to do your research and hire a photographer who know what they are doing! Many newer photographers will label themselves “Candid” or “Documentary” in order to hide their inexperience. Always ask to see a full gallery and how long they have been in business for.

Will I still get beautiful photographs?

An important aspect of documentary style wedding photography is its link to fine art.

Documentary wedding photographers strive to create beautiful, artistic images that go beyond snapshots. They consider lighting, placement, and storytelling in every image.

Is Documentary style wedding photography right for you?

If you like the idea of sitting back and soaking in your wedding day, then this style is probably right for you!

Again, its always important to do your research. Ask you photographer to see a full gallery and talk to them! Get to know their style and approach to your wedding day.

And of course, if you like the images below, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’d be honored to capture your day.