WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE AND WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Choosing the right photographer can be hard, theres so many to choose from, from editing styles to personalities… making sure they match your vision for your day is vital!
In the photography world there are lots of words thrown around and it can get confusing trying to navigate what you want for your wedding coverage, so let me break down the different between capturing it and documenting it There are two ways to approach wedding photography—capturing your day and documenting it—and the difference is everything.
Capturing a Wedding (Traditional Photography)
Think of this as a curated scrapbook. It’s structured, intentional, and focuses on the big, must-have moments—the first kiss, newlywed portraits, the cake cutting, the exit, etc. Typically, it’s just one photographer following the timeline to make sure nothing gets missed. Resulting in a classic, polished collection of the most important highlights from your day. Think of these as the shots that make it into every wedding album.
This style of shooting is a little heavier on posing in order to capture those big key moments. There tends to be less time for candid moments and focuses more on getting the perfect images.
Documenting a Wedding (Storytelling Photography)
Now, this is where the magic happens. Documentary-style photography is unique to each couple and isn’t just about what happens during your day, but how it feels.
It’s the little moments in between—the way your dress moves as you walk, the way your partner looks at you when they think no one is watching, your dad nervously fixing his tie before walking you down the aisle.
Instead of staging and posing all day, I let moments unfold naturally. I’ll guide you when needed, but the real magic is in the candid, unscripted moments. For true documentary style, I require a second photographer to capture different perspectives, and moments so nothing is missed.
As a photographer it’s about paying attention, watching and noticing whats happening round you. Being aware of your couple and their loved ones and how they interact.
At the end of it all, your gallery will feel like a storybook, not just a scrap book of pictures. You’ll be able to feel the emotions, not just see them.
As a wedding and elopement photographer I lean towards the documentary style of shooting. My philosophy is, not every picture will be perfect but each one will tell the story of your day so every time you see them it takes you right back to that moment.
My Advice to Couples on How to Achieve Documentary-Style Wedding Photos:
- Be present in the moment. Forget about the camera and soak in your day. The more you focus on your emotions and the people around you, the more natural your photos will feel.
- Keep your timeline relaxed. If your schedule is packed too tight, there’s no room for those unplanned, magical moments. Build in extra time to just *be
- Focus on experiences, not poses. Want stunning couple portraits? Take a walk through the city, pop a bottle of champagne, or dance together at sunset—real movement leads to real emotions.
- Surround yourself with people who make you feel like you. When you’re comfortable, your emotions shine through. Choose a wedding party and guest list filled with people who bring out your best.
- Ditch the idea of “perfect.” Some of the best photos come from the unexpected—the wind-blown hair, the happy tears, the unplanned moments that make your wedding day one of a kind.
- Communicate what matters most to you. Tell me what parts of the day mean the most—whether it’s your grandma’s reaction during the ceremony or the way your partner holds your hand during the speeches. These details help me capture what’s most important to you.
At the end of the day, in my opinion, your wedding shouldn’t feel like a photoshoot, it’s a beautiful experience and you images should tell the story of the day and your love. If you want your day capturing in a way that feels real and true to you lets chat!. 🤍
Comments +