If you’re newly engaged, chances are you’re searching for a wedding photographer, and I’m thrilled you ended up here so I can share my top reasons why you should hire a documentary-style wedding photographer. Choosing your wedding photographer will be one of the most important decisions you make in the planning process. Your wedding day will pass by in a blur, but your photographs will last a lifetime.

It’s important to choose a photographer who can capture your day in a way that tells your unique story. It would make me so sad if all the memories you had from your wedding day were about how your photographer was interrupting you and posing you! If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who can capture candid, unposed moments, then you should consider hiring a documentary-style wedding photographer. 

What is Documentary-Style Photography?

Documentary-style photography is a type of photography that focuses on capturing candid moments and emotions as they happen, without the interference of posed shots. The goal is to tell a story through the photographs, and to capture the atmosphere and emotions of the day in a way that is true to you as a couple. It’s common for couples to desire “timeless” wedding photos. The best way to ensure your wedding photos are timeless is to capture them candidly, as the day happens. The most memorable stories, funniest moments, and authentic experiences are captured as they unfold. The magic is gone if the photographer has to ask, “can you do that again?”

Why Choose a Documentary-Style Wedding Photographer?

There are many reasons why you should consider hiring a documentary-style photographer for your wedding. Here are just a few:

1. Authenticity – One of the biggest benefits of documentary-style photography is that it captures authentic moments. Rather than staged poses or forced smiles, you’ll have a collection of photographs that truly represent who you are as a couple.
2. Creativity – Documentary-style photography allows for more creativity and spontaneity. As your photographer, I can capture moments as they happen, and find unique angles and perspectives that will make your photographs stand out.
3. Emotional Connection – By capturing candid moments and emotions, documentary-style photography creates a strong emotional connection to the photographs. When you look back on your wedding day, you’ll be able to relive those emotions and memories in a way that traditional posed photographs can’t match.
4. Pressure-free Environment – With a documentary-style wedding photographer, you can relax and just be yourself. I want a real version of you. The best thing you can do for your wedding photos is have an amazing time. The pictures will naturally reflect this joy!
5. Timeless – Finally, documentary-style photography is timeless. These photographs won’t go out of style, and they’ll look just as beautiful in 50 years as they do today. See your grandparents’ wedding photos for reference!

Final Thoughts

This sounds a little counter-intuitive to some, but I want to speak directly to the couple who doesn’t really want a wedding photographer at all. Maybe, in your minds, having a wedding photographer will automatically feel fake because you fear it will rewrite the story of the day in your minds. This is completely valid and understandable. Wedding photos often look glossy, almost *too* perfect.

Hiring a documentary-style wedding photographer will give you the opposite experience, in a good way. It gives you the freedom to experience the day in a pure, unaltered way. Enjoy the experience, and your photos will show how it all felt.

If you connect with my work and values, I would love to talk more with you about photographing your wedding! You can browse a recent wedding story here and inquire below. xo