Wedding photography captures one of the most important days of your life. Choosing the right style can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling decisions like the venue, catering, and that ever-growing guest list. So, which is better for you: documentary-style wedding photography or traditional photography? Let’s break it down so you can confidently decide.
Shannon Leopold is a traveling documentary wedding photographer based in Boone, North Carolina. She offers intimate, honest, and nostalgic photography that captures real life love stories in an unexpected way. See her portfolio, services, or contact her.
What Is Documentary-Style Wedding Photography?
Let’s start with the basics. Documentary-style wedding photography is all about authenticity. No forced smiles, no stiff poses—just pure, unfiltered moments. It’s the photographer capturing things as they happen, without intervening in the day’s events. Think of it like having your own personal photojournalist.
For many couples, documentary-style photography feels more like a reflection of real life. You’ll look back on candid photos of the tear rolling down your mom’s cheek during the ceremony or your best friend busting out some questionable dance moves at the reception. If you’re looking for something intimate and real, this style is for you.
Traditional Wedding Photography: What’s Different?
Traditional wedding photography, on the other hand, is more structured and posed. The photographer carefully sets up each shot, making sure every detail is picture-perfect. If you’re envisioning formal family portraits and photos that look like they belong on the cover of a bridal magazine, then the traditional approach may be right up your alley.
Some couples prefer this style because it offers more control. Your photographer will guide you through each step, ensuring you get all the classic shots—like that perfectly posed kiss in front of the altar or the entire bridal party smiling at the camera.
RELATED: Why You Need a Documentary-Style Wedding Photographer
The Benefits of Documentary-Style Photography
If you’re still on the fence, here’s a quick rundown of why documentary-style photography might be the right fit for your wedding:
- Authenticity: Your photos reflect real moments, not staged ones.
- Less Stress: You won’t have to worry about getting the perfect pose.
- Emotional: Captures the raw, heartfelt reactions of you and your guests.
- Unique: Every wedding is different, and this style ensures your gallery looks as personal as your day feels.
Plus, if you’re someone who feels awkward in front of the camera, documentary-style photography lets you be yourself. You can focus on soaking up the day, not on forcing a smile every time the lens points your way.
The Charm of Traditional Wedding Photography
On the flip side, traditional photography still holds its own charm, especially if you’re looking for that classic, timeless look.
- Structure: You can plan your shot list and make sure no important moment is missed.
- Elegance: Perfect for those iconic shots that your grandparents will proudly display.
- Guidance: Your photographer will direct you, which is great if you’re unsure how to pose.
Many couples appreciate having a mix of traditional and candid shots. After all, it’s nice to have a few formal photos to frame alongside the candid, laughter-filled moments.
Finding the Right Fit for Your Wedding
So, how do you decide between documentary-style and traditional wedding photography? Here are a few questions to help guide your choice:
- Do you want your wedding photos to tell a story as it unfolds, or do you prefer more control over the process?
- Are you comfortable in front of a camera, or do you prefer something more laid-back and natural?
- Is your wedding a formal event with lots of structure, or are you aiming for something more relaxed and intimate?
There’s no right or wrong answer here. Some couples go all-in on documentary photography, while others prefer the reliability of traditional poses. And guess what? You can totally do both! Many photographers, including myself, blend these styles to offer a mix of posed and candid shots that give you the best of both worlds.
The Shannon Leopold Photography Approach
At Shannon Leopold Photography, I specialize in documentary-style wedding photography with a touch of the traditional. My goal is to capture the moments that matter most, from your father’s reaction when he first sees you in your dress, to the quiet, intimate moments shared between you and your partner.
I understand how important it is to feel comfortable in front of the camera, and I work closely with every couple to ensure that happens. We’ll plan ahead so there’s plenty of time for both natural, candid shots and a few timeless portraits that you’ll cherish forever.
Let’s be real: weddings are filled with emotions, and they’re not always perfectly planned or posed. Sometimes, the most memorable moments are the ones you didn’t expect—the unscripted tears, the goofy dance moves, the quiet look between you and your partner when you think no one’s watching. Those are the moments I love to capture.
Which Photography Style Should You Choose?
In the end, the choice between documentary-style and traditional wedding photography comes down to personal preference. If you want a relaxed, natural approach that captures all the real moments, documentary-style is likely for you. But if you love the idea of posed, formal shots that look polished and timeless, traditional photography may be the way to go.
No matter which style you choose, your wedding day will be filled with memories you’ll want to keep forever. If you’re looking for someone who can help you tell the full story—moments big and small—I’d love to chat and see if we’re a good fit.
Conclusion
Whether you’re leaning toward documentary-style wedding photography or something more traditional, the most important thing is finding a photographer you trust to tell your story. At Shannon Leopold Photography, I work closely with each couple to ensure that their wedding day is captured in all its glory—both the glamorous and the beautifully human. Let’s talk about how we can work together to capture your special day in Boone, NC. Reach out today!
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