Wedding Photography Styles Explained: A Comprehensive Guide for Couples

When planning your wedding, one of the most important choices you'll make is selecting a photographer. Your wedding photographs will be cherished memories for years to come, so understanding the different photography styles and considerations when hiring your photographer is crucial. Here’s a detailed guide with our top tips to help you find the perfect fit.

Traditional photography

• - Known for its timeless appeal, traditional photography focuses on posed, formal portraits of the couple, wedding party, and family members.

• - Shots are carefully staged, often in iconic locations or against classic backdrops like church altars, floral arches, or grand staircases.

• - This style is perfect for couples who value elegance and want a structured photographic record of their day, including those all-important family group photos.

Documentary (photojournalistic) photography 

• - Documentary photographers specialise in capturing the natural flow of your wedding day, unobtrusively documenting events as they unfold.

• - Expect candid, emotion-filled shots: laughter during speeches, tears during vows, and spontaneous dance floor moments.

• - This style is ideal for couples who prefer authentic storytelling over staged images, resulting in an honest depiction of their wedding day.

Fine art photography

• - With a focus on aesthetics and creativity, fine art wedding photographers use light, colour, and composition to create ethereal, magazine-worthy images.

• - Often featuring dreamy, soft-focused portraits, this style might include artistic details like the bride’s veil softly blowing in the wind or the interplay of sunlight on the couple’s rings.

• - It’s a great choice for couples who want their wedding photos to feel like works of art, worthy of a place on the wall.

Editorial photography

• - Inspired by high-fashion magazines, editorial wedding photography blends elegance with drama.

• - Couples are posed like models in dramatic lighting or with unique props, creating bold and polished images. This style works best when the wedding has strong design elements, like statement décor or couture outfits.

• - This style is perfect for couples who want their wedding photos to exude luxury and sophistication.

Modern trends to keep in mind

• - Interactive elements: More and more, we’re seeing weddings with interactive photography experiences, like Polaroid stations where guests can snap instant photos or retro photo booths for personalised keepsakes.

• - TikTok-Style content: Social media-friendly content is also on the rise. Some photographers now offer short-form videos, like TikTok reels, for couples to share online.

• - Hybrid Coverage: Combining photography and videography ensures the day is comprehensively documented. Some photographers advise that having both enables couples to relive the day from different perspectives.

Key questions to ask your wedding photographer

When considering photographers for your wedding, here are some essential questions to ask before confirming:


• - What is your photography style, and can I see examples of your work?


• - How many hours of coverage do you recommend for a wedding? 

• - What shots and how many do you include in your package(s)? 

• - Are there additional costs for editing or travel?


• - Do you offer packages with both photography and videography?


Budgeting for Your Photographer


Wedding photography can be a significant expense, but understanding costs upfront can help you budget effectively:


• - Typical wedding packages can start from around £800 but vary based on experience, location, and duration of coverage.


• - Additional costs may include editing, travel, or extra hours of coverage.


• - For couples on a tighter budget, photographers recommend limiting coverage to key moments and focusing on must-have shots.

Tips for Choosing the Right Photographer



Selecting the right photographer requires careful consideration:


• - Portfolio and style: Ensure their portfolio resonates with your aesthetic preferences.


• - Personality match: A photographer who makes you feel comfortable will help you shine on camera.


• - Testimonials and reviews: Be sure to check reviews from other couples before booking.

Other Tips to Make the Most of Your Wedding Photos


Maximising the impact of your wedding photography involves planning and communication:



• - Share a shot list with your photographer to prioritize key moments.


• - Schedule time for couple’s portraits, especially during golden hour.


• - Consider having an engagement shoot with the same photographer to build rapport and ease.

• - Many photographers have complimentary or discounted wedding albums as part of their packages - it’s always worth asking this to ensure you have a keepsake of the big day for years to come.
  

Your wedding photos are an investment in memories. By understanding styles, trends, and practicalities, you can find a photographer who will beautifully capture your love story. 

At Togather, we partner with the UK’s very best wedding photographers - with experts in all photography styles. Complete our short enquiry form telling us about your big day and we’ll match you with photographers from our network of trusted wedding photographers who’ll send you quotes in just 30 minutes.