Your wedding photos are one of the few lasting mementos of your special day, which makes choosing the right photography style incredibly important. The way your wedding is captured can influence how you remember the day for years to come.
So, how do you make sure you choose a photography style you’ll love not only now, but also in 10, 20, or 50 years?
Here’s a guide to help you select a timeless photography style that resonates with you and stands the test of time.
1. Different Photography Styles
Before choosing a style, it’s important to find out about the different options available.
While each photographer has their unique approach, wedding photography typically falls into a few distinct categories:
Traditional Photography
This classic style emphasises posed shots, capturing important moments like group portraits and key moments of the ceremony and reception in a formal, structured way.
Photojournalistic Photography
A more candid, storytelling approach, where the photographer captures the day as it unfolds naturally without much posing. This style often produces raw, emotional, and spontaneous images.
Fine Art Photography
A highly artistic style with a focus on composition, lighting, and creative angles. These images often have a dreamy, almost editorial feel.
Lifestyle Photography
A relaxed, light-filled style that strikes a balance between candid and posed moments. It’s casual, fun, and focuses on capturing the genuine emotions and interactions of the day.
Dark and Moody vs. Light and Airy
These are two popular stylistic trends. “Dark and moody” focuses on deep, rich tones, while “light and airy” creates bright, ethereal images with soft, natural light.
Top Tip: Don’t just choose a style because it’s trendy right now. Think about which one resonates with you personally and reflects your personality and vision for your wedding.
2. Look at Complete Galleries
When choosing a photographer, make sure to look beyond their highlight reel or Instagram feed.
While a few standout photos might catch your eye, it’s essential to see how the photographer handles an entire wedding day.
A complete gallery will give you a sense of how they capture everything from getting ready moments to the ceremony, reception, and those in-between candid moments.
Top Tip: Check out how consistent their style is throughout the gallery. Does it feel cohesive? Would you still love these photos when you look back at them years down the line?
3. Think About Timelessness
While wedding photography trends come and go, choosing a style that feels timeless can help you avoid any regret in the future.
Ask yourself if the style you’re drawn to will still feel relevant and beautiful when you look at your wedding album 20 years from now.
While there’s no right or wrong answer, it’s important to consider whether you’re choosing a style because it’s a personal preference or because it’s currently in fashion.
For example, light and airy photography is known for its timeless appeal. The bright, natural feel of the images can evoke a sense of joy and romance, which tends to feel fresh and relevant even as trends shift.
Tip: Avoid overly processed or heavily filtered styles that might look dated as trends change.
Clean, natural, and well-lit photography often stands the test of time.
4. Stay True to Your Personality
Your wedding photos should reflect your personality as a couple. Make sure that when you look at the photo style – you can see yourselves in the images.
I really hope you’ve enjoyed this article – if you’d like any more information, then please give me a shout.
