What is documentary Wedding photography? An overview.
Funny moment during cake cut at the beautfil Clock barn, a rustic Hampshire wedding venue
If you're exploring different wedding photography styles, this article will back you up. You’ve probably seen ‘documentary wedding photography’ or ‘reportage wedding photography’ while searching for your wedding photographer. But what does it really mean? You might also wonder why am I writing about this topic. The reason is that this is the way I shoot weddings. It’s a completely different mindset that I have adopted early in my career, thanks to all the mentors I’ve had throughout my journey as a wedding photographer.
I will provide insights into the advantages of documentary wedding photography, guidance on selecting the ideal photographer to match your requirements, and even a glimpse into the history of this captivating style!
Stunning wedding day at Parley Manor Wedding Venue
What’s documentary wedding photography?
Documentary wedding photography style is all about capturing real moments throughout the wedding day with the aim of making you remember how it felt like and not just what they looked like. Documentary photography is frequently compared to photojournalism because both styles share the goal of documenting genuine & real-life events as they unfold and they are under the same umbrella. For example a traditional photographer might grab your guests to take posed group photos while a documentary photographer might notice that the bride is wiping away tears of happiness when hugging grandma. I always say that the most important element in any photo is the moment and moment always wins, every time and for that you need a different mindset to get this. This approach allows your photographer to blend into the background discreetly, capturing the spontaneous moments and the atmosphere of the day.
Beautiful moment captured during reception at Cripps Barn, Gloucestershire Wedding Venue
What’s a documentary wedding photographer?
I like to say to think of them as a friend with a camera capturing moments as they happen with minimal interference, focusing on storytelling and emotions of the wedding day. This approach is becoming increasingly popular because it allows couples to relive their wedding day through genuine images rather than posed and staged photographs.
A spontaneous moment captured during the signing of the marriage schedule at St Mary's Church, Aylesbury
What does a documentary wedding photographer focus ON?
Unlike other wedding photography styles that often involve more posing, it's all about capturing authentic and real images in a unique storytelling way intervening as little as possible throughout the wedding day, documenting the day exactly as it happens, with very little interruptions and staged shots.
Usually, it focuses more on capturing all the laughter, tears, natural reactions and moments from getting ready until the party. Documenting expressions on people's faces, the bride's first look, that cannot be staged, with her proud dad, a tear running down the bride's mother's face during the ceremony, the way your partner looks at you during the exchange of rings, the funny moments during the reception as well as the laughter during speeches that are to die for and all those moves on the dance floor!
Moments that can’t be repeated, captured during the party of this incredible fusion wedding I had the honour to document at Dodmoor House, a barn wedding venue in Northamptonshire
All these are moments that cannot be staged, are unposed and can’t be repeated is what the documentary wedding photographer will aim to document in an unique storytelling way. One thing that is extremely important and that I do whilst documenting a wedding day it to give context to a photo instead of, for example, just having a photo of a guest smiling at certain point during speeches or just having a photo of dad’s face looking all emotional with few tears on his face. Sometimes it’s not possible for several reason but I aim to give context whenever possible.
“Instead of waiting for your photographer to stage something that wouldn’t mean anything to you in the future, after your big day, why not just forget about them? Just forget you have on your special day a photographer that shoots in a documentary style like me, that will work hard for you to capture all the memories, and enjoy your day! Remember my two rules: never look at the camera and your are never in the way.”
If you're not a fan of being in front of the camera, you're in luck! The magic happens when you're at your most relaxed, basking in the natural flow of the day, unaware of the camera's presence. These are the moments that often make the most true and best photographs.
Speeches always get me and this was not an exception, Cripps Barn, Gloucestershire Wedding Venue
Wedding couple portraits can also be Relaxed & natural (creative twilight portraits too)
I think this is an important topic, given the feedback I usually have from my couples during our first consultation meeting. A documentary wedding photographer will spend most part of your wedding day documenting moments in an unobtrusive way, blending in the background. However, when it comes to couple portraits, they can also capture then in a documentary style and in this particular case I will explain why and how I do it.
A natural moment during couple portraits under this gorgeous light during golden hour at Parley Manor Wedding Venue
The main goal is to capture the couple’s intimate moments in the most relaxed way to get some truly authentic images. To achieve this documentary-style couple portraits, I encourage my couples to spend some time quality together by suggesting they take a stroll through through different location and that could be around the ceremony place, or in the reception area on your wedding venue or maybe a small trip to a secret location, like a secluded garden. These places will offer the perfect backdrop for some amazing moments.
“I always tell to my couple to take advantage of their couple portraits to enjoy their time together without the fuss of the wedding guests, because this will be most likely the only quality time they will have by themsevels on their wedding day.”
I don't like scripted poses or artificial smiles. I prefer to gently guide my couples, keep the flow relaxed and stress-free by getting them moving, playing interactive games, relying on prompts that triggers some nice genuine reactions between the couple - true laughter, shared secrets, stolen kisses – these are the moments that truly showcase your unique connection and make for stunning documentary-style portraits. I always say to my couples that when they look back at their wedding photos, I want them not just to see how they looked, but also how they felt!
An incredible moment during couple portraits at a wedding in Southampton. I don't like scripted poses or artificial smiles!
One thing I like to suggest to my couples is that if they are up for it, we can do some lovely creative portraits during sunset or once the sun is down (twilight photography). The twilight or night photography might have some posed nature to some extent because I will be using an off-camera flashes setup for that creative touch and flare. But I promise you it is well worth it. I always like to create something unique for each couple on their special day with a touch of creative flare!
Creative portrait I had the privelage to create for this lovely couple at The Green Cornwall, a Barn Venue In Cornwall
Do they still take group photos?
If you wonder documentary wedding photographers still take formal group photos and creative portraits, the short answer is yes. Any documentary photographer will spend most of the day just as an observer. However, documentary photography is flexible and documentary photographers can accommodate posed formal group photos if you wish. I actually encourage my couples to do so. My wedding questionnaire includes a section where you can specify which formal group photos combinations you want. This is probably the most important part of the day for your family and it will likely be the most important photos for them, so lets keep both families happy! So if you would like some relaxed but posed group photos, communicate with your documentary wedding photographer to ensure your requirements are met.
Family portraits at Cripps Barn, Gloucestershire Wedding Venue
benefits of this candid wedding photography:
Documentary wedding photography is a total win for couples who want their wedding day to be captured stress-free and with lots of candid moments. Let's dive into why this style is a fantastic choice:
Authenticity: Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and this style ensures your memories are accurate, unposed to some degree (for example, formal group photos will tend to be a bit more posed), and rightful. In an era where weddings often become a checklist of must-have photos and extended portrait sessions, documentary photographers seamlessly blend into the background. Their unnoticeable presence lets you fully experience your wedding day, free from the stress of orchestrating "must-have" shots.
Natural Moments: It's all about preserving the natural and real moments that make your day unique. Unlike traditional photography, which may involve extensive posing, this style thrives on originality. It captures the natural, unscripted moments that reflect your true self, ensuring you can be at ease in front of the camera.
Timelessness: Documentary wedding photos have a timeless quality. These photographs aren't confined to trends or fleeting poses. Candid images capture all the emotions and moments that will remain meaningful and memorable for years to come. You won't find trendy, over-posed shots in the collection of a documentary wedding photographer. There are a few exceptions always, like, for example, twilight photography that gives a creative flare and twist to your wedding gallery where things have to be a bit more controlled.
Natural and Relaxed: With this approach, you and your guests can be yourselves, fully immersed in the day's joy, without the constant need to pose for the camera.
True-to-Life Editing: When it comes to editing, in general, documentary wedding photographers have your back with a natural touch. It ensures your wedding photos authentically mirror the essence of your day, free from the influence of passing editing trends or excessive alterations. Your precious memories remain pure and bona fide.
A fun moment during family formals at Stratton Court Barn, a barn wedding venue in Oxfordshire
The best wedding photos are never posed. If you were to research the most memorable and beautiful moments taken since photography was born, you will find that they were always taken in a documentary style. From photojournalism to weddings, documentary was the way. This style of storytelling is at the heart of the documentary approach and I believe this is the way how weddings should be photographed. Only a photo taken without direction will have true meaning in the future and like I love to say, these photographs are the record for that generation that hasn’t born yet.
Documentary Wedding Photography is HarD!
A key aspect that distinguishes my approach as a documentary wedding photographer is the level of effort I put into capturing your day in a natural, unstaged manner. While other photographers may pose wedding parties or direct shots, my goal is to blend into the background and observe the ebbs and flows of your event unfold naturally. This allows me to capture the most genuine and authentic moments through photographs rather than staged poses.
Documentary-style images require unique talents and skills. I work to find interesting compositions amid the action using subtle camera movements. My photographs focus on capturing fleeting emotional expressions and subtle gestures that reveal personality. Doing so without interrupting or posing requires adept skills.
In contrast, posed photography relies more on positioning subjects, adjusting lighting, and instructing participants to hit their marks. This allows posed shots to be quickly snapped. However, posed images can lack the spontaneity and intimacy of documentary wedding photographs.
By taking a documentary approach, I'm committed to photographing your wedding day as naturally as possible. My aim is to deliver an immersive visual story through images that represent you both authentically.
Documentary Wedding Photography Highlights
While documentary photography avoids posed shots and heavily staged scenes, it still aims to capture meaningful and memorable moments. Here are a few examples from past weddings that highlight this style:
The moment when the bride and groom saw each other for the first time as the wedding march began. Their smiles said it all as they locked eyes.
A fun dance-off between the groom's father and bridesmaids during an uptempo song. Their impromptu routines had guests cheering and laughing.
When the groom leaned in to steal a kiss from his bride during their first dance. The tenderness of the moment during the dancing was touching to witness.
Grandparents embracing with happy tears after being announced during the ceremony's introduction of family members. Sharing the wedding day means so much to elders.
Bridesmaids passing around an the baby ring bearer so each one could get a cuddle during the recessional. The casual scene showed the bonds between these loved ones.
This bit allows me to "show" rather than just "tell" examples of photographic moments I aim to capture in a documentary style. Integrating these examples here would strengthen my description of distinctive attributes of this approach. Please let me know if adding this type of context could further enhance the discussion.
Tips for finding a documentary wedding photographer
After booking your wedding venue and registrar the next most important step is finding the perfect documentary photographers who aligns with your vision, style, and personality. Whether you're a couple who loves natural photography, spontaneity, cherishes authenticity, or just wants to keep your special day stress-free and full of fun, I got you covered. Lets help you uncover the top tips for selecting the right photographer.
Party time during wedding reception at Balfour St. Barts in London, Smithfield
Expand your research beyond local photographers
When it comes to planning a wedding, finding the right photographer is a crucial task. While it's common to start your search for a wedding photographer locally, I always recommend expanding your research beyond local photographers using Google.
Read reviews and seek for referral
Reviews and referrals are invaluable tools at your disposal. These trusted resources can guide you towards the photographer who will resonate with you. Read reviews from past clients on platforms like Google Reviews or Facebook business pages to gauge photographers' reputations. You can check my testimonials here.
Schedule Consultations
Scheduling consultations is a pivotal step that can make all the difference. These meetings aren't just about discussing details – they're an opportunity to gauge if the photographer truly understands your vision and can authentically capture the essence of your special day. Discuss their approach to the wedding day ask all the questions and pay attention to any indications of excessive staged shots during when viewing a full gallery.
Photographer comparison
Once you've chatted with several photographers, it's time to do a little comparison. Please take a good look at their styles and approaches. Your goal is to find the photographer who best fits the wedding photography style you've been searching for.
When you're sizing up these photographers, focus on something other than their style. Consider their experience, how they communicate, and whether you feel that connection during your conversations. All these elements play a role in their ability to capture your wedding day authentically.
Book as soon as possible
Once you've discovered your ideal photographer, it's time to secure their services! Remember to reach out well in advance of your wedding date to confirm their availability.
Creative portrait at Dodmoor House, a barn wedding venue in Northamptonshire
What's the history of documentary wedding photography?
The history of documentary wedding photography finds its origins in the realm of traditional photojournalism. This modern approach emerged during the early 20th century as a means of using photography to capture real-life events and narratives in a candid and unscripted manner. Pioneering photographers like Henri Cartier-Bresson and Robert Capa popularised this style by documenting significant events and everyday life with spontaneity.
In more recent times, documentary wedding photography has gained prominence within the wedding industry. It aims to capture the unfolding wedding day as it naturally happens, diverging from the conventional style of wedding photography, which often includes more staged and posed shots. The essence of this approach lies in enabling couples to truly experience their wedding day without the need for extensive staged photography, emphasising the actual moments and authentic emotions that make the day memorable.
First dance at Parley Manor Wedding Venue
Conclusion
If you’ve made it this far, hurrah! Documentary wedding photography is an excellent option for couples who want authentic photographic documentation of their wedding. Couples often spend more time celebrating with guests and can relax and be themselves on their wedding day. Do you just want to be left alone to enjoy your day and spend as much time as possible with your favourite people? Have the best wedding ever? Then I would love to be considered. Please feel free to get in touch to arrange a chat with me. I’d love to hear about all of your wedding day plans and how I can help you document your special day for you and the future generation that aren’t here yet!
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Business details:
CARLOS AZEVEDO PHOTOGRAPHY
Mobile: (+44) 07752116130
E-mail: hello@carlosazevedophotography.co.uk
WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IN WILTSHIRE
Based around Swindon but serving the South West and whole United Kingdom
Author Bio
Carlos, a seasoned wedding photographer with over a decade of experience, has passionately captured the essence of more than 200+ weddings throughout his illustrious career. Specialising in documentary wedding photography, Carlos brings a unique touch to his work, emphasising natural moments, heartfelt family portraits, and breathtaking couples' portraits. His ability to freeze genuine emotions in time has made him a sought-after professional in the wedding photography industry.
He is a proud member of the Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers (SWPP) staying on top of industry best practices through their educational programs. Carlos has seen his work featured at Rock My Wedding (RMW), Fearless Photographers (FP), and This is Reportage (TiR) that gives emphasis to documentary, reportage, and artistry work. Each photograph reflects his commitment to excellence and dedication to storytelling through images, creating timeless memories for couples to cherish.
With a wealth of experience and a wedding portfolio graced by prominent features, Carlos continues to document love stories with authenticity and a keen eye for detail. He is known amongst brides and grooms for his ability to fly under the radar and capture emotional scenes as they unfold. Through hundreds of weddings over the past decade, Carlos has gained deep expertise in wedding photography and an understanding of what truly matters to couples on their special day.