Have you just started your wedding planning and are looking at photographers whose style is described as ‘documentary’, but you aren’t sure what this means?

Well, don’t worry I’m here to give you a quick low down on what this style is exactly, which I hope will give you a better understanding if this style is suited to you.

So, what is it?

Documentary Wedding Photography can be best described as a candid style. Where the photographer allows moments to unfold naturally, without interference. A photographer with this approach will seek out moments to capture, which would otherwise go unnoticed. 

For example, during the ceremony, a traditional photographer will focus on the couple portraits. A photographer with this photojournalist style, will not only take pictures of the couple, but notice a family member tearing up or a child playing in the aisle.

As a documentary wedding photographer myself, my mindset is to capture the day is it is, with all the laughter, tears and moments in between.  I aim to tell your story as honest as possible.

What about family portraits you might be thinking?

This will always be a must-have part of your wedding day (unless you really don’t want them), and this will always need some direction from a photographer, to make sure your all look your best. By having a photographer who chooses to have a more candid approach, they will make sure this part of the day is kept short and sweet. I aim to keep family portraits to 20 - 30 mins max. 

Will there be any posing during couple portraits? 

As a documentary photographer, the portrait session can be as short or long as required, typically I spend between 10-20 mins for this. The portrait session tends to be the first time during your day where its just you two, so enjoy it! 

If your lucky enough to have a beautiful sunset, don’t be surprised if your photographers asks to split the portrait session up, trust us when we say, golden hour photos really are worth it. In either sessions, there won’t be awkward posing, with my sessions, I will gently guide you through, and help you feel more comfortable behind the camera.

Is documentary style right for you? 

Having a documentary wedding photographer capture your day, allows you to be in the moment and enjoy your wedding day to the fullest. Whilst knowing that all the big and small moments are being captured, so when you look back on your gallery, you can relive your day - exactly as it happened.

I’ve lost count on how many times couples or guests have said to me “I didn’t even notice you were there” and thats exactly how it should be, if that sounds appealing to you, then choosing a documentary photographer for your wedding might be for you.

Would you like me to tell your story?