In a captivating display of styles of wedding photography, the bride gracefully descends a spiral staircase with her bouquet. The outdoor setup features empty chairs overlooking a serene wooded area, while close-ups capture the couple cutting their layered cake and strolling hand in hand near a tranquil forest pond.

Styles of Wedding Photography: Finding the Right Fit for You

From dresses to décor, every couple has their unique style. But one of the most essential stylistic decisions you’ll make is choosing a wedding photographer. In fact, before reaching out to potential photographers, it’s a good idea to understand what wedding photography styles speak to you. Booking a photographer first and learning about their style later could lead to photos that don’t match your vision.

Photographers spend years perfecting their craft, from how they shoot to how they edit, which is why choosing one whose style truly resonates with you is so important. Your photographer’s approach will directly impact how your wedding day is documented—whether it feels natural and spontaneous, carefully curated, or somewhere in between. Explore different photography styles and have open conversations with potential photographers to find the perfect fit for your wedding story.

So, let’s break it down and help you figure out what wedding photography style fits your wedding energy best.

Collage of four photos showcasing styles of wedding photography: Two people walking in front of a building, a couple sitting together on a stone, guests walking towards a venue, and a couple crossing a stream with the help of their partner.

Full Documentary – The Purely Candid Approach

If you love raw, unfiltered moments and want your wedding captured exactly as it unfolds, this is your wedding photography style. Full documentary photographers are basically ninjas in formal wear. They are the quintessential “fly on the wall.”

Your photographer will be fully hands-off, meaning there’s no posing and no direction. They’re there to document the day as it happens, which means your wedding album will be a true, realistic representation of your big day. Your photographer will utilize the natural lighting of your setting (whether it’s the golden hour glow or the dimly lit romance of your reception). The photographer will also embrace the imperfections that make the day real. Expect slightly grainy, low-light shots, movement blurs that add energy, and images that feel raw and authentic (rather than overly polished).

Best for: Couples who want to relive their wedding exactly how it happened, unposed chaos.

What to expect: Your photographer is a professional people-watcher. They’ll capture everything naturally, with minimal interference.

A collage showcases four styles of wedding photography: a couple beaming in a forest, a bride elegantly posing indoors, lovebirds running hand-in-hand across a field, and two clinking champagne flutes in formal attire.

Documentary with Prompts – The Guided Candid Approach

Think of this as the Goldilocks zone of wedding photography. This style is not too staged, but not too chaotic. Your photographer will mostly let things unfold naturally, but they’ll step in with a few well-placed suggestions.

Truthfully, this is how most photographers operate. Wedding party photos, family photos, and couple portraits will come with more guidance and prompts. The ceremony and reception are approached with a documentary mindset. Expect a mix of natural interactions and a little guidance when needed, ensuring your photos are effortless and flattering.

Best for: Couples who want mostly candid moments but appreciate a little help looking their best.

What to expect: A laid-back vibe with gentle guidance and direction.

A bride and groom embrace on a motorcycle, showcasing diverse styles of wedding photography. Nearby, a bride approaches groomsmen in suits, another couple stands before a grand building, while yet another pair strolls hand-in-hand by a serene lake framed by trees.

Editorial with Some Candids – The Stylishly Curated Approach

This wedding photography style is the perfect balance of structure and spontaneity. Think magazine-worthy portraits with enough room for a few naturally chaotic moments. Your photographer will guide you through those stunning, well-lit couple’s shots. But they’ll also be ready to snap the moments in between.

This style draws inspiration from fashion shoots, featuring posed shots with a more artistic and dramatic approach. Often, the focus is on the couple’s style and the venue’s ambiance. Think bold lighting, cinematic framing, and an editorial touch that elevates the overall look while allowing room for spontaneous moments.

Best for: Couples who want their photos to feel polished but not too polished.

What to expect: A mix of beautifully composed shots and candid moments that make your wedding album feel alive.

A collage captures four styles of wedding photography: a couple on steps, a bride smiling in a garden, a tender close-up of another couple, and a romantic moment in lush surroundings. Brides wear white gowns; grooms are in formal attire.

Full Editorial – The Cinematic Editorial Approach

This is your photography style if you’ve ever dreamed of your wedding looking like a cinematic masterpiece. Full editorial photography is all about precision—every detail, every pose, and every lighting choice is meticulously planned. Your photographer will ensure you look like absolute royalty, but be prepared for a lot of staging.

This style draws heavily from fashion photography, focusing on dramatic and artistic compositions. The goal is to highlight the couple’s style, the venue’s ambiance, and the wedding’s overall aesthetics. Expect a blend of moody lighting, intentional styling, and a high level of creative direction.

The photographer is a huge factor in making this style work. If a full editorial is your vision, consider hiring a photographer who specializes in this genre. That doesn’t mean you can’t work with your favorite photographer. But be prepared for a lot of consultation and planning to ensure they can execute your dream aesthetic flawlessly.

Best for: Couples who want their wedding photos to look like they belong on the cover of a high-end bridal magazine.

What to expect: Direction and consultation. Lots of it.

Four wedding photos capture diverse styles of wedding photography: cutting a cake, groomsmen in suits playfully posing, a couple joyfully walking down an aisle with floral arrangements, and the pair strolling in a misty wooded area under an umbrella.

Which Style Is Right for You?

If you want your photos to feel like a documentary of the best day of your life, go full candid. If you want to feel like a celebrity in a high-fashion shoot, go editorial. Most couples land somewhere in the middle.

Many photographers naturally flow between these styles depending on the moment. Photographers regularly lean more toward a documentary approach for ceremonies and receptions but step in with guidance for portraits and wedding party photos.

When looking for a photographer, consider what type of photography you love most. And have an honest conversation with your spouse to ensure your preferences align. Then, an honest discussion with photographers. Find out whether you’re the right fit for them, just as much as they’re the right fit for you. The best photographer for your wedding is someone who understands your vision and makes you feel comfortable in front of the camera.

When choosing a photographer, stalk their portfolio and make sure their style aligns with your vision. Because at the end of the day, these photos will be your time machine back to your wedding day. You want photos that feel like you (but with better lighting).

A series of wedding photos showcasing diverse styles of wedding photography: a couple walking hand in hand on a wooded path, a bride holding a bouquet with a flowing veil, celebrating under a rustic pavilion, and the groom lifting the bride on a scenic overlook.

Erin Morrison Photography’s Wedding Photography Style

At Erin Morrison Photography, my approach primarily falls into the Guided Candid Approach. I love capturing real moments as they unfold, but a little direction can go a long way! Helping couples feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera is what it’s about. Whether it’s guiding you into the best light or stepping back to let a moment happen organically, I balance documentary-style storytelling with just enough guidance to create effortless images.

That being said, I am flexible across all styles. Some weddings call for a more editorial touch. And that is especially for dramatic couple portraits. While other weddings call for raw, in-the-moment documentary shots. My goal is to tailor my approach to each couple, ensuring that their photos reflect their unique love story authentically. If you like what you see from my portfolio, please reach out and let’s chat about making your wedding day an amazing experience.