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What Are The Different Types Of Wedding Photography Styles?

Picture of Kim Argosino
Kim Argosino
Content Writer at Photo Kings
Bride hugging the groom from the back

Introduction

So, you’re engaged—congratulations! 🎉 Now comes the fun part: planning your wedding. But wait, have you decided on your wedding photography style yet? If the sheer number of options has your head spinning faster than a wedding planner on caffeine, don’t worry!

Don’t worry, though. We’re here to help you cut through the clutter and find the perfect style that’ll make your wedding photos as memorable as your vows. Dive into this guide to discover the different types of wedding photography styles!

Table of Contents

Traditional Wedding Photography

If you’re into classic vibes and timeless elegance, traditional wedding photography is your jam. This style is all about those perfectly posed shots where everyone looks like they just stepped out of a bridal magazine. Imagine formal portraits of the bride, groom, family, and that one uncle who insists on doing the “thumbs up” pose.

Bride and groom standing back to back

Pros

  • Captures Key Moments: With traditional wedding photography styles, you’ll get every important moment. No one will miss out on Aunt Martha’s annual “serious” face! 
  • Timeless Portraits: These photos have a classic charm that’s always in style, like a good old pair of blue jeans.
  • Great for Large Families: Perfect for wrangling everyone into a single frame, even that distant cousin who’s only seen in family portraits.

Cons

  • A Little Stiff: Sometimes, these posed photos can look a bit stiff, like everyone’s been told to freeze in time.
  • Can Interrupt the Flow: The constant photo ops might feel like your day is on pause while everyone says “cheese” for the hundredth time.
  • Lacks Spontaneity: You might miss out on those off-the-cuff, laugh-until-you-cry moments that truly capture the spirit of your big day.

Photojournalistic Wedding Photography

Photojournalistic or documentary-style wedding photography is like having a ninja photographer who sneaks around capturing the real deal as it happens. This style is all about catching those unposed, genuine moments. 

Groom looking up at his partner during wedding

Pros

  • Authentic Moments: It’s like getting a front-row seat to the real emotions and reactions of your big day—no fake smiles here!
  • Non-Intrusive: This style is less about directing and more about blending in, so you can enjoy your day without constantly stopping for pictures.
  • Tells a Story: Think of it as a photo diary of your wedding, capturing everything from the tear-jerking vows to your cousin’s epic dance moves.

Cons

  • Misses Formal Poses: If you’re dreaming of those classic posed shots, you might need to look elsewhere.
  • Less Control: You won’t have every shot planned out, so expect a few surprises—both good and bad!
  • Photographer’s Skill: The success of this style relies on the photographer’s ability to be in the right place at the right time, like a pro at a high-stakes game of hide and seek.

Contemporary Wedding Photography

Contemporary wedding photography is like the cool kid on the block who’s always ahead of the trends. It gives your wedding photos a stylish twist with creative and funny wedding poses, quirky angles, and a modern spin on those traditional shots. If you want your wedding album to look like it’s straight out of a fashion magazine, this is the way to go.

Pros

  • Trendy Visuals: This style serves up a modern, chic look that’s perfect for couples who want their wedding photos to be as fresh as their Instagram feed.
  • Personalized Touch: Get ready for photos that really show off your personality with unique poses and creative flair that scream “you.”
  • Artistic Flair: Your wedding album will have that artistic edge, making your photos stand out like a work of art.

Cons

  • May Not Suit Everyone: If you’re more of a classic vibes kind of couple, contemporary styles might feel like they’re trying too hard to be trendy.
  • Possibly Dated: What’s hot now might seem a little passé in a few years, so if you’re after timelessness, this might not be your cup of tea.
  • Focus on Style: Sometimes, the emphasis on looking cool might overshadow capturing those genuinely heartfelt moments.

Artistic Wedding Photography

Artistic wedding photography is like turning your wedding day into a high-fashion art exhibit. This style goes wild with creative lighting, offbeat angles, and editing that makes each photo look like a masterpiece. If you want your wedding album to be the kind of thing people hang on their walls and admire, this is your style.

Bride and groom on a yacht for their wedding

Pros

  • Visually Stunning: Your photos won’t just be memories—they’ll be works of art that make people go “Wow!”
  • Unique and Personalized: Expect a highly customized approach that’s all about showcasing your one-of-a-kind vibe.
  • Striking Effects: Perfect for couples who want their wedding photos to be conversation starters, or at least the topic of everyone’s social media feed.

Cons

  • Not for Everyone: If you prefer classic, straightforward shots, artistic wedding photography might feel like a bit too avant-garde.
  • Cost: This style can be pricier due to fancy techniques and a lot of post-processing—your wallet might feel like it’s been hit by a creative whirlwind.
  • Personal Taste: The artistic choices might be a little too “out there” for some, so make sure you’re on the same page with your photographer!

Vintage Wedding Photography

Vintage wedding photography is like stepping back in time to a classic black-and-white film where everything looks charmingly old-school. This style adds a sepia-tone twist to your photos, giving them that retro flair with classic compositions and film effects. 

Pros

  • Nostalgic Appeal: Perfect for couples who want their wedding photos to have that timeless, “I feel like I’m in the 1950s” vibe.
  • Unique Aesthetic: Stands out from the sea of modern wedding photography styles with a look that says, “We’re different and proud of it!”
  • Classic Feel: Ideal if you’re into historical or retro themes—think Great Gatsby glamour but with fewer flapper dresses.

Cons

  • Less Modern: If you’re all about sleek, contemporary vibes, vintage might feel like it’s dragging you back to a bygone era.
  • Limited to Retro Feel: The vintage effect might overshadow some of the actual moments, making your photos look more like a set from an old-time movie.
  • Editing Effects: Heavy filters and effects might not be everyone’s cup of tea, so be sure you’re cool with a bit of old-fashioned flair in your photo album! Avoid this by hiring an experienced photographer for your day.

Black and White Wedding Photography

Did you know that ​​43% of people think that black represents high quality? Black and white wedding photography is like giving your wedding photos a premium touch. This style ditches the color and focuses on the rich contrasts, textures, and emotions of your big day. 

Pros

  • Timeless Elegance: Offers a sophisticated look that’s always in style, like a little black dress but for your photos.
  • Highlights Emotions: Perfect for showcasing those heartfelt moments and expressive reactions—who needs color when you’ve got feelings?
  • Elegant and Dramatic: Adds a dramatic flair that makes your photos look like they belong in a high-fashion magazine.

Cons

  • No Color: You’ll miss out on the vibrant hues and details that color photography brings to the party.
  • Limited Detail: Some of those colorful details might vanish into the monochrome abyss, leaving you with just black, white, and a few shades of gray.
  • Not Always Suitable: This style might not mesh with every wedding theme, so make sure it fits your vibe before committing.

Destination Wedding Photography

A destination wedding can cost anywhere from $8,000 to $30,000. Knowing this, you’d want to have a photography style that’ll turn your wedding into a glamorous travel adventure. This style is all about capturing your big day in jaw-dropping locations—think tropical beaches, picturesque mountaintops, or charming European streets.

Pros

  • Stunning Backdrops: Your wedding photos will look like they belong in a travel magazine. You can feature some of the most gorgeous views in your chosen location. 
  • Unique Touch: Adds a sense of adventure and one-of-a-kind flair to your album—because who doesn’t want to look like they’re on a fabulous honeymoon, even before the honeymoon?
  • Captures the Experience: Showcases not just your wedding, but the special, exotic vibe of your destination, making your photos as unforgettable as the location itself.

Cons

  • Extra Costs: All those stunning locations come with a price tag, including travel and accommodation—so be ready to budget for a bit of globetrotting.
  • Logistical Challenges: Coordinating with a photographer from afar can be like trying to organize a surprise party for someone who lives on the moon—things might get a little complicated.
  • Unfamiliar Terrain: The photographer might need some time to get used to the new setting, so they might not instantly capture every perfect angle without a bit of scouting.

Candid Wedding Photography

Now this one of the most popular photography syles! Candid wedding photography is like having a sneaky photographer who’s always ready to catch you in your most natural, unguarded moments. Forget the stiff, posed shots—this style is all about those spontaneous bursts of laughter, unexpected hugs, and the genuine interactions that make your day uniquely yours.

Pros

  • Genuine Reactions: It’s like getting a photo album full of heartwarming moments and real emotions, perfect for making you laugh and cry all over again.
  • Less Intrusive: The photographer blends into the background, so you can enjoy your day without constantly stopping to pose. It’s like having a paparazzi who’s actually your friend.
  • Authentic Storytelling: Captures your wedding day in a way that feels real and relatable, like a candid snapshot of your love story.

Cons

  • Missed Poses: If you’re set on those classic posed shots, this might not be your style—unless you’re okay with photos of you mid-bite of cake.
  • Requires Skill: The photographer has to be a pro at catching those fleeting moments, like a ninja with a camera who never misses a beat.
  • Less Control: You won’t have a say in every shot, so you might end up with some unplanned, surprise photos—both the “wow” and the “oops” variety! Make sure to book an expert photographer to avoid this! 

Capture Your Big Day with Style!

No matter which wedding photography style tickles your fancy, it’s all about finding the right vibe to match your big day. Whether you’re going for timeless elegance, spontaneous moments, or exotic adventures, choosing the right style will help you relive those special memories for years to come.

Ready to get those stunning shots without breaking the bank? Connect with Photo Kings for top-notch wedding photography that combines high quality with a friendly, budget-friendly approach. We’ll make sure your photos are as unforgettable as your wedding day—no extra stress required. Connect with us and let’s make magic happen! 📸✨

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