Did you know that there are different types of wedding photography? Not just photographers, but there are very distinct styles that are helpful to know when deciding on what fits best for your ceremony. Interestingly enough, many photographers blur and mix styles. Take into account the styles below, and use it to help you find the style that you’re looking for!

1) traditional wedding photography.

    Chances are your parents, or grandparents had photos done this way. Theses are the important shots you never want to miss! Group shots, first kisses, toasts, the bride and groom, wedding party and the like. These photos are typically directed and posed by the photographer, and are instant classics. While there are photographers who focus on just the traditional styles, many mix traditional wedding photos into other styles. 

2) photojournalistic wedding photos

   This style has a storytelling element, that is simply beautiful. Oftentimes photographers with this style capture a lot of candid, behind the scenes moments that detail your day. The posed shots are great, but capturing the raw, unfiltered feelings of your loved ones when they’re unaware is something special. 

3) illustrative wedding photography

    If you plan on eloping, getting married in a beautiful natural setting, or would like your wedding photos shot days prior to (or after) you ceremony, illustrative wedding photography may be the type of style for you. Think National Geographic photographer meets wedding. This photographer has major skill in landscape photography, and can capture both natural settings, and couples in natural settings well. Think huge mountains, beautiful lakes.  

4) natural wedding photography

    Photographers who shoot this way, do not rely heavily on flash or huge external lights. Many times combined with a photojournalistic style, ceremonies that benefit the most from this style are usually outdoor, daytime ceremonies, or in venues that allow in a lot of natural light.

5) fashion wedding photography

    There are photographers who specialize in shooting fashion spreads for gown and tux vendors. Many times these photographers also offer their services to actual couples who are getting married, and this results in photos with a more editorial/fashion composition instead of the traditional wedding approach. If you or your spouse is someone who’s into fashion photography, and want this reflected in your wedding photos, find someone who specializes in just that!

6) black & white wedding photography

    This is fairly self explanatory, but this type of photography is a classic. Again, it’s a style usually mixed into other styles. Eliminating color allows you pay more attention to the action happening in the photo, and can be a bit more emotional. If you decide you want your entire wedding shot this way, having your wedding colors black & white is probably the best route. 

7) vintage wedding photography

    We’ve seen the grainy, desaturated image style become popular once again, and not surprisingly there are couples who want their entire wedding shot this way! If you’re a cottage core fan, or love a dusty/scratchy style photos, find a photographer who specializes in a Vintage style! Not only will you have photos that match your vibe, they’ll look incredible on social media!