We can first split into two categories that most people will understand as either Posed or Unposed.
There will naturally be a cross-over for all photographers, not all photos should be posed or unposed for example your ceremony can't be posed, nor can your speeches for example.
Some of this blog will be subjective and each photographer will have slightly differing ideas on what each description will entail.
As a majority-posed photographer, I do still need to 'line up' a shot from time to time, this could be your classic couples shot or one of your rings, family etc. When signing the register I'll ask you to look at me and then at each other.
I'm going to tell you about my wedding and my experience- I chose a 'posed' photographer based on beautiful Pinterest-worthy images on his IG. On the day he manipulated us into perfect poses that looked gorgeous in the photos but made me feel like a total wally- when I see those photos I think two things 1. I felt so awkward in that moment. 2. I look gorgeous.
I'm not going to tell you that either posed or unposed is better or worse, it all depends on how comfortable you are in front of a camera!
My style of shooting is a blend of Candid and Photojournalistic this is a mostly Unposed approach. I will however step in and direct in key moments but even then I am asking for conversation, walking, dancing etc rather than perfect poses- for the most part, I want to capture you, as you are, enjoying your wedding!
Here are some commonly used words and what they mean with a few images from my portfolio.
Candid Wedding Photography
Photos are taken of you and your guests without them being aware of the camera being on them, the feeling and emotion in the photos are genuine and authentic. Looking at the photos takes you right back into the moment.
This style is great for people who don't love the idea of looking down a lens but want to capture the feeling of the day.
Editorial Wedding Photography
Highly posed, often with creative lighting or planned light manipulation for an artistic shot. Images look like they were taken out of Vogue, direct flash is very popular!
I shoot editorials for fashion and I can tell you that this style requires a little extra time that I don't think is for everyone on a wedding day, if you want your wedding day to be a part wedding, part photoshoot then this is the style you want to look for.
Storytelling
The whole image tells a story, and all the images together view like a play by play, every detail is important and thought has gone into composition.
Below you can see this engagement shot at the venue the couple have chosen, the background and the subject all tell the story.
Documentary
This word is often used to describe a candid approach that doesn't touch a scene- no furniture movement or direction or editing of any distractions- it is as it was on your day.
In my image below I wanted to ensure I captured the bride eating her favourite crisps from her crisp wall!
Formal
Often unfairly deemed 'stiff' - formal images have a place as a historic and timeless record of marriage, family and friends. These are your classic lineups, directed and posed and loved by grandparents!
Even a candid photographer will likely allow time for formal images at some point in the day.
What words should I look for?
Ask yourselves these questions and look for the following words in your chosen photographer's marketing materials.
Unposed | Posed | |
I want my photos to be Pinterest-perfect. | Fine Art, Editorial | |
I'd give up perfection for authentic emotion | Photojournalistic | |
My photos should look like they came out of a magazine | Editorial | |
My photographer should document every moment as it happens | Storytelling, Documentary | |
My photographer should interrupt my day to ensure I get all the shots I need | Formal, Traditional | |
I don't want to know my photographer is there, I want a candid approach | Documentary, Candid |
I'd love to hear about your wedding day! Get in touch to talk about how I capture your day.
Cat xx
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