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What Are The Different Approaches To Wedding Photography & Whats Right For Me?

Cat Brant
Aug 20, 2024
3 min read

Updated: Oct 9, 2024

We can first split into two categories that most people will understand as either Posed or Unposed.

There will naturally be a cross-over for all photographers, not all photos should be posed or unposed for example your ceremony can't be posed, nor can your speeches for example.

A cross section of Posed and Unposed Photography Styles

Some of this blog will be subjective and each photographer will have slightly differing ideas on what each description will entail.

As a majority-posed photographer, I do still need to 'line up' a shot from time to time, this could be your classic couples shot or one of your rings, family etc. When signing the register I'll ask you to look at me and then at each other.

I'm going to tell you about my wedding and my experience- I chose a 'posed' photographer based on beautiful Pinterest-worthy images on his IG. On the day he manipulated us into perfect poses that looked gorgeous in the photos but made me feel like a total wally- when I see those photos I think two things 1. I felt so awkward in that moment. 2. I look gorgeous.

I'm not going to tell you that either posed or unposed is better or worse, it all depends on how comfortable you are in front of a camera!

My style of shooting is a blend of Candid and Photojournalistic this is a mostly Unposed approach. I will however step in and direct in key moments but even then I am asking for conversation, walking, dancing etc rather than perfect poses- for the most part, I want to capture you, as you are, enjoying your wedding!

Here are some commonly used words and what they mean with a few images from my portfolio.

Candid Wedding Photography

Photos are taken of you and your guests without them being aware of the camera being on them, the feeling and emotion in the photos are genuine and authentic. Looking at the photos takes you right back into the moment.

This style is great for people who don't love the idea of looking down a lens but want to capture the feeling of the day.

A candid wedding photograph of a guest smiling

Editorial Wedding Photography

Highly posed, often with creative lighting or planned light manipulation for an artistic shot. Images look like they were taken out of Vogue, direct flash is very popular!

I shoot editorials for fashion and I can tell you that this style requires a little extra time that I don't think is for everyone on a wedding day, if you want your wedding day to be a part wedding, part photoshoot then this is the style you want to look for.

Editorial style portrait at Goodwood Revival — Editorial Shot Of A Model Taken At Goodwood Revival

Storytelling

The whole image tells a story, and all the images together view like a play by play, every detail is important and thought has gone into composition.

Below you can see this engagement shot at the venue the couple have chosen, the background and the subject all tell the story.

Hands reach out to each other infront of Cain Manor — Take My Hand- The wedding venue is framed behind.

Documentary

This word is often used to describe a candid approach that doesn't touch a scene- no furniture movement or direction or editing of any distractions- it is as it was on your day.

In my image below I wanted to ensure I captured the bride eating her favourite crisps from her crisp wall!

A bride eats a crisp from a crisp wall — Documentary Style Image

Formal

Often unfairly deemed 'stiff' - formal images have a place as a historic and timeless record of marriage, family and friends. These are your classic lineups, directed and posed and loved by grandparents!

Even a candid photographer will likely allow time for formal images at some point in the day.

A formal family photo outside Sandford Springs

What words should I look for?

Ask yourselves these questions and look for the following words in your chosen photographer's marketing materials.

	Unposed	Posed
I want my photos to be Pinterest-perfect.		Fine Art, Editorial
I'd give up perfection for authentic emotion	Photojournalistic
My photos should look like they came out of a magazine		Editorial
My photographer should document every moment as it happens	Storytelling, Documentary
My photographer should interrupt my day to ensure I get all the shots I need		Formal, Traditional
I don't want to know my photographer is there, I want a candid approach	Documentary, Candid

I'd love to hear about your wedding day! Get in touch to talk about how I capture your day.

Cat xx

Comments

hi! I'm cat and i am a full time wedding photographer

(and a little bit of a photography geek!)

I started taking photos as a teenager, my Dad was a wedding photographer and I would often help him. In 2021 I left my corporate job with a dream and hope that I could make photography a full time job. Since then I have been pouring my heart and soul into this business and have been honoured to be chosen as wedding photographer for so many lovely couples as well as being a portrait and event photographer.

I TAKE CLASSIC, TIMELESS, DOCUMENTARY STYLE PHOTOGRAPHS WITH MINIMAL INTRUSION

But I will step in and offer gentle guidance when it's right to do so, I have learned over the years to read the room, anticipate the next move, hold space when needed and offer support when I can.

aRE YOU LOOKING FOR A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER?

When choosing a wedding photographer, consider their style, experience, portfolio, and reviews from previous clients. It's also important to discuss pricing, availability, and any specific requests you may have.

Don't forget to meet with them in person to ensure you have good chemistry and feel comfortable with their approach.

Once you have narrowed down your list of potential wedding photographers, it's a good idea to ask them some key questions to help you make your final decision.

Here are a few questions to consider:

What is your photography style? Do you prefer a more traditional approach or a more candid, documentary style?
Do you have experience with weddings of a similar size and style to mine?
Can I see a full gallery of a recent wedding you photographed? This will give you a better sense of their consistency and quality of work.
Do you have backup equipment in case something goes wrong on the day of the wedding?
How do you handle difficult lighting situations (e.g. low light, harsh sunlight, indoor vs. outdoor)? This will help you gauge their technical expertise.
What is included in your packages? Are there any additional fees I should be aware of (e.g. travel, overtime)?
How long will it take to receive my photos after the wedding? Will they be edited and retouched?
Can you accommodate any special requests I have (e.g. specific shots, family portraits)?
How do you ensure that you capture all of the important moments on the day of the wedding?

By asking these questions and having an open and honest conversation with your wedding photographer, you can ensure that you find the right fit for your big day.