What Is Documentary Wedding Photography? Explained!

You are planning your wedding and are unsure of who to call for your wedding photography. Pictures paint a thousand words and are one of the most important things to have, and one of the last things that remain once the wedding is over.

The memories that you shared on your wedding day will never be forgotten as you have the photography documented, but what is ‘documentary wedding photography’ or ‘reportage wedding photography’, and is it the photography style for you?

What is Documentary Wedding Photography?

Documentary wedding photography is a style of wedding photography that focuses on capturing spontaneity and natural moments.

This type of photography is often more candid and less posed than other styles of wedding photography, it is commonly referred to as documentary and reportage photography.

If you are looking for a photographer who will be able to capture your wedding day as it unfolds, then a documentary wedding photographer may be the right fit for you.

How Does Documentary Wedding Photography Differ from Other Styles?

Documentary wedding photography is often compared to photojournalism, as both styles seek to capture real-life events as they happen. It is less about posing for a photo, but enjoying the day, forgetting the camera is there, allowing your photographer to be there in the background, capturing moments and the day.

Traditional photography may include group shots, posed couple photos and more formal shots, photos that are set and created, where as documentary photos are taken but not formal or posed, they are candid and real.

What does documentary photography focus on?

Capturing moments through out the day that tell your story. From getting ready, that expressions on peoples face, that first look moment you cannot stage, the look of your proud father, a tear running down your mothers face, the look of love from your partner, these are moments that cannot be staged, unposed and captured by your photographer.

For your point of view, if you are not one for having your photo taken then this is perfect, having your photo when you feel relaxed, natural and didn’t know makes for some of the best photos and most beautiful moments.

What Are the Benefits of Documentary Wedding Photography?

If you are looking for a way to capture your wedding day in an authentic and natural way, then documentary wedding photography may be the right choice for you.

This type of photography can provide you with beautiful, candid memories that you will cherish for a lifetime.

Documentary wedding photography is a style of photography that focuses on capturing candid moments as they happen. If you are looking for beautiful, natural photos that capture your wedding day authentically, then this may be the right choice for you.

Do documentary wedding photographers still take group pictures?

Of course, if there are specific photos you would like taken, you and your parents or certain family shots then let your photographer know in advance. It is important there is time set for this photos and also the photographer knows who will be in these shots.

While these types of shots don’t fall under the documentary and reportage style your photographer will still capture these for you.

Booking a Documentary Wedding Photographer

Here are some tips and advice to document wedding photographs the right way and how to choose and book your documentary wedding photographer.

Style

One of the most important things to keep in mind when choosing a wedding photographer is their style. Do you want traditional posed photos or are you looking for someone who will capture your day as it unfolds?

There are many different styles of photography, but documentary photography is becoming increasingly popular for weddings. This type of photography captures spontaneous moments and provides a more natural feel.

When looking for a documentary photographer, it is important to look at their portfolio. This will give you an idea of their style and approach.

Once you have found a few photographers whose work you like, it is time to start narrowing down your options.

Pricing is always an important consideration, but it should not be the only factor that influences your decision. It is important to find a photographer whose style you connect with and who you feel comfortable with.

Budget

As with anything you will want to have your wedding budget in place. You can expect your documentary wedding photographer to be there for the day for those getting ready photos right through the the final dance, once the wedding it is over it is the editing of hundreds of photos ready to create a beautiful album and story of the day or send over via an online gallery.

For your documentary wedding photographer expect to budget anywhere from £1,500 to £3,000.

Booking

Once you have found the right photographer, it is time to book them! Be sure to contact them well in advance of your wedding date to ensure that they are available. Most importantly, relax and enjoy your special day! These tips will help you choose and book the perfect documentary wedding photographer for your big day.

Your wedding day should be one of the happiest days of your life. Make sure that it is captured perfectly by finding the right documentary photographer.

Use these tips to help you choose and book a photographer who will capture your special day just the way that you want it remembered—natural, candid, and full of love!

Begin the search for your perfect wedding photographer here.