Choosing a wedding photographer: How to Find Your Wedding Photography Style
One of the most common questions I hear from couples planning their big day is: “How do I know which wedding photography style is right for me?”
With Pinterest boards overflowing, Instagram feeds filled with dreamy galleries, and a million photography terms being tossed around—light and airy, dark and moody, editorial, documentary—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
The truth is, your wedding photos should reflect you. Your story, your vibe, and how you want to remember one of the most meaningful days of your life. So, let’s break it down and help you find your perfect match.
1. Start with How You Want to Feel Looking Back
Close your eyes and imagine flipping through your wedding album 10, 20, even 30 years from now. What do you want to see?
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Do you want timeless, elegant images that feel like classic heirlooms?
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Are you drawn to the emotion and movement of candid, documentary-style photos?
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Or do you envision something bold and editorial, like it belongs in a magazine?
This is the best place to start—because photography isn’t just about how it looks. It’s about how it makes you feel.
2. Study What You’re Naturally Drawn To
Take a scroll through your saved pins or screenshots. Do you notice a pattern?
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Light + Airy styles usually have soft tones, glowing natural light, and a dreamy, romantic feel.
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Dark + Moody styles feature deep shadows, rich contrast, and an emotional, artistic edge.
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True-to-Color / Timeless styles (like mine!) focus on natural tones, clean editing, and classic composition that stands the test of time.
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Editorial / Fine Art often means carefully posed, highly styled images with a fashion-forward look.
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Documentary / Photojournalistic is all about capturing the day as it unfolds with little interference or posing.
There’s no wrong style—just what feels right for you.
3. Think About Your Wedding Vision
Your wedding setting, theme, and aesthetic can also play a role in finding the right photography style.
If you’re planning a black-tie celebration at a historic estate, an editorial or fine art approach might suit you best. Having an intimate beach elopement? A more candid, documentary feel could capture the vibe beautifully.
Match your photography to the tone of your day—not just visually, but emotionally.
4. Ask Yourself What Matters Most
Some photographers are storytellers. Others are artists. Some focus on editorial portraits, while others live for in-between moments.
Ask yourself:
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Do I want more posed photos or more candids?
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Is capturing all the little details important to me?
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Do I love black-and-white images?
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Do I care more about how it feels than how it looks?
Your answers will help narrow down your style. If you still are struggling, ask your photographer! I am sure they would love to help you (including myself).
5. Get to Know the Photographer Behind the Lens
Once you’ve figured out the vibe you’re going for, start looking at specific photographers whose work matches that style. And then—this is key—get to know them.
Because at the end of the day, you’re not just hiring a style. You’re hiring a person to document one of the most personal and emotional days of your life. Their energy, approach, and personality matter just as much as their portfolio.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding photography style should feel like a reflection of your love story—authentic, intentional, and uniquely yours. Take the time to explore what speaks to your heart, not just what’s trending.
And if you’re still unsure, don’t be afraid to reach out to a few photographers whose work you love. A good photographer will be more than happy to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you figure out if it’s the right fit.
If you’re drawn to classic, true-to-color images with a timeless, elegant feel—that’s exactly what I do. I’d love to chat and see if we’re a match.
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