Bridal celebrations are joyous and happy occasions, but they are gone in the blink of an eye. You are left with your wedding attire, prosperous marriage wishes, and a multitude of memories that will eventually fade. This is where bridal photographs take the main stage. Wedding photography is a way to keep your emotions forever! Thus, every detail of your photos must be carefully considered, starting with the appropriate style! 

However, picking from the vast amount of wedding photography styles can be an intense challenge. Rare are couples who can immediately decide on the kind of technique they wish for their big day. The immense variety of choices does not make it easy but somewhat confusing. Nonetheless, you want your photos to turn out dreamy and breathtaking, but they also have to be candid and reflect your true story. That is why it is necessary to be careful with your decisions! 

Keeping in mind the struggle of choosing a wedding photography style, we have created a guide to make the right choice. Additionally, we have included different approaches along with their features, hopefully inspiring you to find exactly what you are looking for. In other words, they will help you find the elements of your romantic drama!

Close Look Into Wedding Photography Styles 

Before you begin examining types of wedding photography, remember that each comes with its unique characteristics. Also, note that there are no good or bad trends but rather suitable ones that could align with your needs and preferences. It is up to you to pick what fits you the best and reflects your personality and that of your loved one. 

Traditional Bridal Photographs 

In the past, when we talked about traditional capturing, we used ‘formal’ and ‘posed’ photos. This was the most convenient style due to the lack of technology and the limited number of wedding picture styles. 

However, nowadays, we have advanced innovations, so the number of photos is not an issue. Furthermore, you can have as many photographs as you wish or need. Unfortunately, the current trend is characterized by classic posing in front of the camera without flexibility and spontaneity. It relies mostly on the photographer’s directions, which do not show candid or unplanned moments.  

Today, traditional types of wedding photography are used for shooting portraits with family members. Even though they do not have artistic features, they can give you timeless memories of your big day. Every couple decides to use this approach at least for a few shots because it is the only way to obtain classy photographs of the entire family. 

Portrait Photographs 

Whenever you hear the word “portraits,” you probably imagine another type of formal posing. This wedding photography style generally captures one person or a smaller group of people. In addition, you can use it to photograph the couple in a private and intimate setting. 

Although it is true that portraits require a certain dose of posing, it does not mean you cannot have some fun or be spontaneous and natural. Many portraitists encourage couples to loosen up and relax during portrait sessions and have fun with the camera. Therefore, you should forget that there is a Chicago wedding photographer by your side and enjoy those private and eternal memories. That way, you can obtain gorgeous shots depicting the love of two people. 

Fine Art Bridal Photographs 

Fine art is ideal for couples who wish their wedding photography style to be unique and inventive. This style is all about creativity and authentic elements. It focuses on achieving photos taken from unusual angles and in different lighting, and it captures partners using dynamic poses to make them more interesting.

High art can be ideal if your idea of bridal imaging is to have something completely exceptional. It will allow you to capture intimate and open occasions with original and sincere elements. 

Documentary Bridal Photographs 

Documentary photography focuses on the celebration’s story. It includes many spontaneous instances throughout the event and a lot of fun and genuine points. With this type of wedding photography, you cannot feel the photographer's presence. They try to be as unobtrusive as possible while capturing one-of-a-kind moments. 

This trend is a blend of multiple techniques as the event requires different elements in the photos. It is a perfect option for partners who desire their union to have a veritable tale. 

Editorial Bridal Photography 

If you want your bridal photos to resemble those in magazines or an article, you should keep an eye on the editorial wedding photography style. However, it requires a lot of planning, preparation, and meticulous execution. 

Even though editorial and documentary methods may look similar, they have completely different aspects. Although both involve spontaneity, the former includes staging and a great influence from the photographer. Simply put, your ideas are considered, but the one behind the lens is running the show. In contrast, the latter greatly limits the involvement of the photographer and is more spontaneous.

Which Wedding Photography Style Is Right For You? 

When choosing the appropriate wedding photography styles, ask yourself how you imagine your love tale to be presented. Take a close look at all of the methods and think about what suits you best and what matches your personality. Remember that you need to feel comfortable when posing in front of the camera. Otherwise, you will end up with unnatural photographs that do not really reflect your true self and do not depict sincere moments. 

Choosing the ideal wedding photography style might seem like a challenging and never-ending task. Therefore, before you decide, try to imagine what corresponds to your personality the most. You can also opt for a blend of techniques to achieve the story you want from your marriage. If you’re still a bit unsure, turn to your Chicago wedding photographer – we will surely provide a helping hand!

For more wedding photo-taking tips, please feel free to check out our blog page.