I’m sure you’ve heard of documentary-style wedding photographs by now, or if not, maybe you’re familiar with alternative terms like photojournalism or candid photography. If you’re still undecided or need a gentle nudge towards opting in for documentary photography (cough cough), here are a few reasons why you might want to consider it, or at the very least, discuss it with your partner before you book a photographer. So why choose a documentary wedding photographer?

Emotion! > Tradition!

When you look over a photo gallery, or even just your iPhone gallery, which photos prompt a smile? Which ones make you feel a sweet emotion? Is it the stiff, uncomfortable poses where someone directed you, or the ones where you’re as stiff as a stick (no offense to sticks out there)? Or, consider this… is it the candid shots where you’re not even aware of the camera’s presence? Maybe it’s the image of a loved one making you laugh, despite the unflattering angles, a few double chins here and there—it’s the memory it stirs that makes it so sweet.

It’s not JUST about you!

For all my introverts out there, or those who aren’t a fan of the spotlight, I understand that your engagement and wedding are about you, but they don’t have to solely focus on you. “What do I mean, Jennise?” Well, while yes, you’re hiring me to capture you and your wedding, not all the photos will revolve solely around you. You’ll have photos of grandpa adjusting his tie just before he sees you for the first time that day, your guests sharing funny moments, and the younger ones running in the grass. Maybe even the groomsmen sneaking in a bottle of their favorite spirits, hehe. Your gallery won’t be exclusively about you—it’ll be a whole pot of moments shared with those you love. Trust me, you’ll always want to remember those who came from down the street, or who flew in to celebrate your new milestone.

Purposeful time

If you’re inclined to spend more time with your guests and loved ones rather than being taken away for extended periods, then documentary wedding photography might be your thing (just in case I haven’t convinced you yet). We can keep formal photos to a minimum—no need to set aside a whole hour for stiff poses. Go ahead and enjoy the company of your guests! This also means your photographer won’t disrupt the flow or stage moments that aren’t naturally occurring. We’re there to capture genuine emotions and actions, not create them. I won’t insist on awkward embraces or interrupt sweet moments to move you to another spot in the room.

Different Perspectives

And finally, if you’re seeking different perspectives, documentary wedding photographers don’t necessarily tell a story from only one point of view. We’ll mix it up. From the perspective of you and your partner, your invited guests, and an outside view. When we tell a story, we want our couples to fully immerse themselves from multiple points of view. We want you to be able to relive your wedding as if you were transported back.

There are numerous reasons to opt for a documentary wedding photographer, but these are some of my personal favorites. If you’re curious to learn more, feel free to reach out via my contact form! 🙂

To view more documentary wedding galleries head over to my wedding tab under blogs.