Documentary vs. Editorial Wedding Photography: Which Style Tells Your Story Best?

"Candid” photography has definitely taken center stage in recent years, and for good reason - it captures the raw, authentic moments that truly tell the story of your day. Most couples gravitate toward this style, and it’s easy to see why: who wouldn’t want to relive those real, in-the-moment shots that bring the emotion of your wedding day to life? But here’s the catch - while it’s clear that stiff, posed photos aren’t the vibe for most couples, there’s often some confusion around how to strike the right balance between natural, candid moments and those perfectly styled, editorial shots that add a touch of glamour and sophistication.

So, how can you blend both styles seamlessly to ensure your wedding photos reflect the full range of emotions, from raw and spontaneous to dreamy and timeless? Let’s break down the difference between documentary and editorial photography, and how you can combine them to create a perfect balance that tells your unique wedding story.

Let's Start with Documentary Style Wedding Photography:

Documentary - or candid- wedding photography is all about capturing your wedding day as it naturally unfolds, with little to no interruption. the goal here is to tell the story of your day with photos that feel authentic, real, and emotional. I often like to describe this style as being like a “fly on the wall” because I stay in the background, blending into the day and letting the moments happen organically. There are little to no prompts or directions - just you, your guests, and the beautiful moments that naturally occur as the day progresses.

Think of it as documenting the true, raw emotions of your day. Maybe it's your dad's tear-filled hug right after a first look, or the laughter shared between your friends or guests during speeches. These moments may feel small or fleeting at the time, but they hold so much more meaning as the years go by.

It’s about capturing those tender, raw moments that can’t be staged or recreated. No awkward posing or forced smiles, just pure, genuine reactions as you live your wedding day to the fullest. Documentary wedding photography lets these moments speak for themselves, preserving the feelings, energy, and emotion that make your day truly unforgettable.

Let’s Move on to Editorial Style Wedding Photography:

While documentary photography is all about capturing the natural flow of your wedding day, editorial photography takes a different approach by focusing on creating those artistic, polished images that feel intentional and thoughtfully composed. In this style, I take a more active role - guiding you through specific prompts or adjusting your position to highlight those small but meaningful details, like the way the light hits your dress or the backdrop of your venue. It’s all about making sure the photos look as beautiful and unique as your day.

But don’t worry - posed doesn’t mean stiff. For me, it’s about helping you look and feel your best while keeping everything natural and relaxed. Maybe it’s a quiet kiss shared at sunset, or arranging your bridal party in just the right way to make the scene pop. These moments are carefully crafted to add a touch of artistry, without losing the personal connection that makes your day special.

Editorial photography also gives me the freedom to play with lighting, angles, and creative compositions, allowing me to create different moods or evoke certain feelings in the images. These photos have a more artistic feel -they’re dramatic and stunning, yet still deeply personal and unique to your wedding story. It’s the perfect way to complement the raw, emotional moments with those polished, beautiful shots that add depth to your entire gallery.

So Which Photography Style is Best for Your Wedding Day?

The true magic of wedding photography often lies in finding the perfect balance between both documentary and editorial styles. Why is this balance so important? Because your wedding day is a beautiful mix of raw, unscripted moments and opportunities for stunning, artistic shots that feel polished yet personal. Blending these two approaches creates a dynamic and complete representation of your day, from the intimate, candid moments to the perfectly crafted portraits.

The key here is flexibility. Every wedding is unique, and each couple brings their own energy and vibe to the day. Having a photographer who can seamlessly offer both documentary and editorial styles makes a huge difference. Some moments are best left to unfold naturally - capturing the emotion and spontaneity - while others benefit from a bit of guidance to bring your vision to life. Personally, I love to read the energy in the room. If the vibe is emotional and quiet, I’ll stay in the background, letting those moments happen naturally. But if you’re feeling a little unsure or need a nudge to relax, I’ll step in and guide you through it, making sure you feel comfortable and confident.

At the end of the day, my approach is all about making sure your photos reflect who you are as a couple. By blending authentic, candid moments with a touch of artistic direction, we’ll create a gallery that truly captures the essence of your wedding day - one that feels natural, emotional, and uniquely yours. It’s the perfect balance of letting your story unfold naturally, while also capturing those beautifully styled moments that will make your photos stand out for years to come.

Ready to Create Timeless Memories?

If you’re ready to create a wedding day story that perfectly blends authentic moments with stunning, artistic shots, I’d love to be a part of your journey. Whether you're planning an intimate elopement in the mountains or a celebration with your closest family and friends - together, we can craft a wedding photography experience that’s as unique as you are. Reach out today, and let’s chat about how we can capture your special day in a way that feels real, emotional, and beautifully you. I can’t wait to hear all about your plans!

Faith Velkovski is an adventure-based wedding photographer shooting weddings and elopements throughout all of Tennessee (including Chattanooga, Knoxville, Johnson City, Gatlinburg), and destinations worldwide.

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