Alright folks, let's talk about documentary wedding photography. I know you're here wondering what on earth it is and if it's the right choice for your big day. Well, sit tight and let me walk you through it, Matt Smart style.


Documentary Wedding Photography: The Basics

Documentary wedding photography, also known as reportage or candid photography, is all about capturing the real, unscripted moments of your wedding day. Think of it as the opposite of those stiff, posed shots where everyone looks like they're auditioning for a Victorian portrait. Instead, it’s about telling the story of your day as it naturally unfolds, without any interference from the photographer. It's raw, it's real, and it's packed with genuine emotion.


Why Go for Documentary Style?

Now, you might be thinking, "But Matt, why would I want my wedding photos to look like a day in the life of a reality TV show?" Good question, and here's why:

  • Authenticity: Documentary wedding photography captures the true essence of your wedding day. The laughter, the tears, the spontaneous dance-offs – everything is preserved in its natural glory. No fake smiles, no forced poses. Just real moments that you'll cherish forever.
  • Candid Pictures: Forget about awkwardly standing in line for group shots. With documentary style, you get candid pictures that show everyone having a blast. From your uncle's questionable dance moves to your best friend's emotional speech, nothing is missed.
  • Stress-Free Experience: Let's be honest, weddings can be stressful. The last thing you need is a photographer barking orders at you to "tilt your head just a little more to the left." With a documentary approach, you can relax and enjoy your day without feeling like you're on a photo shoot.
  • Tells a Story: Your wedding is a story waiting to be told. Documentary photographers are like ninja storytellers, blending into the background and capturing every chapter as it happens. When you look back at your album, you'll see the day exactly as it was, from the nervous excitement before the ceremony to the joy of the first dance.


How It Works

So, how does a documentary wedding photographer work their magic? Here’s a quick rundown:

  • Observation: The photographer blends into the background, observing the events as they unfold. No posing, no directing, just pure observation.
  • Timing: It’s all about being in the right place at the right time. A skilled documentary photographer anticipates moments and captures them as they happen.
  • Discretion: The best documentary photographers are like ninjas – you won’t even know they’re there. They move quietly and capture the genuine moments without drawing attention to themselves.


Is Documentary Wedding Photography for You?

If you're a fan of authentic, candid pictures and want to relive the real moments of your wedding day, then documentary wedding photography is definitely for you. It's perfect for couples who value genuine emotions over posed perfection and want their wedding album to tell a true story.


So, if you're looking for Staffordshire wedding photography or a Shropshire photographer who can deliver value through heartfelt, candid shots, then documentary style might just be your cup of tea. So, ditch the stiff poses and embrace the real moments. After all, your wedding day should be about celebrating love, not practicing your best model pose.


Still curious? Check out my work at Matthew Smart Photography and see for yourself why documentary wedding photography is the bee's knees.

Cheers, Matt