Wedding planning is finally here and now you get to make all the fun choices! What cake flavor do you want, what dress will you wear, what beautiful flowers will be there, what food will be served, etc. Among these decisions is which photographer and style of photography to choose.
If that feels overwhelming, take a deep breath. This part can actually be really fun!
Start With You, Not Trends
The most important thing to remember is this. There is no “best” photography style. There is only what feels right for you.
Your wedding photos should feel like your relationship. Not a trend you felt pressured into. Not something you picked because it looked cool on Pinterest but does not actually feel like you.
Before you even start looking at photographers, pause for a moment and think about your own story. Are you more laid back and playful or romantic and sentimental? Do you love candid moments and movement or do you feel drawn to more polished, posed images?
There is no wrong answer. Knowing your vibe makes every decision easier.
A Quick Overview of Common Photography Styles
As you start browsing, you will notice a few styles come up again and again. Here is a simple breakdown. There are two ways to distinguish the style of a photographer: editing and the way they pose people.
Editing styles:
Light and airy photography feels bright and soft. It uses natural light and focuses on connection and joy. This style is beautiful for couples who want timeless, romantic images.
Dark and moody photography leans into deeper shadows and richer tones. It feels dramatic and cinematic and is often loved by couples who want something and artistic.
Film photography has a soft, nostalgic feel. Colors are gentle and everything feels a little timeless and romantic. These images have a vintage look to them.
True to color focuses on keeping colors natural and accurate to real life. It leans away from heavy filters and creates timeless pictures.
Posing:
Photojournalistic photography is all about real moments as they happen. Laughter, tears, hugs, and the in between moments you did not even realize were happening. This is perfect if you care more about storytelling than posing.
Fine art photography feels elegant and intentional. It focuses on composition and classic portraits that could live on a gallery wall. Fine art photography is something you will see in magazines like Vogue.
Guided Candids are a focus of Andria Joleen Photography. It is a blend of candid and posed pictures. We tell you where to put your hands and what to do and then catch the in between moments of joy and tenderness between a couple. This posing style focuses on helping you to feel comfortable in front of the camera.
Each photographer is going to have a different pairing of editing and posing styles. That is why it is so important to look at full wedding galleries, not just highlight images.
Pay Attention to How the Photos Make You Feel
When you are looking through galleries, notice your emotional reaction.
Do the photos make you feel calm? Excited? Emotional? Can you picture yourself in them?
That feeling matters more than any label or trend. Your gut usually knows before your brain does.
Connection Matters More Than You Think
Your photographer will be with you during some of the most intimate moments of your wedding day. You should feel comfortable with them. Seen by them. Supported by them.
When you talk with photographers, notice how they listen. Ask questions. Share what matters to you. A great photographer will guide you without pressure and care just as much about how your day feels as how it looks.
Trust Your Gut and Ask for Help if You Need It
At the end of the day, choosing a photography style is really about choosing someone who understands your story and knows how to tell it honestly. It is about finding that connection with a photographer who will capture the joy of your wedding day.
Trust your instincts. If something feels right, it usually is.
And if you ever feel stuck or unsure, I am always happy to help you talk it through. That is what I am here for.
Hugs!!
