When couples first start searching for a wedding photographer, there’s a lot of talk about styles. You might have heard of light and airy, moody, editorial, fine art… the list goes on. But one term you might have come across, and maybe aren’t quite sure what it means, is documentary wedding photography. So what is a documentary wedding photographer? And could that be the right fit for your day? Here’s what it means, and why I’ve built my entire approach around it.

A Little Background About Me

I grew up with my dad taking photos of us every day. Nothing fancy or posed, just documenting each moment as it went by. This shaped my view and philosophy about photography: that the photos should show how things really happened and felt. I can look at each of these photos and feel the emotions and energy of those moments. 

It’s About Capturing the Day as It Really Happens

Documentary wedding photography is all about storytelling. Instead of heavily posing every photo, I focus on photographing your day as it genuinely unfolds. I want each photo to not only have an effect individually, but I want them to weave together to tell the story of your day. While the posed portraits can be absolutely stunning, it’s the in between moments that connect the dots of your entire day. Whether that’s a quick hug from grandma after seeing you in your dress for the first time, or the way your partner glances at you from across the room at cocktail hour, these aren’t the kinds of things you can force. They just happen naturally.

Your Photos Should Feel Like You

Another thing that people sometimes forget: Your wedding photos shouldn’t feel like someone else’s. They should look and feel like you. In a world of constant comparison and envy, I want your wedding to be separate from all that.

How would it feel to get your wedding gallery back and not recognize yourselves? To see stiff, overly posed photos that don’t match the energy of your day? That’s the opposite of what I want for you.

My goal is for you to look at your photos and feel your day all over again. Not just how it looked, but how it felt. 

Yes, I Still Give Direction, But I Let Moments Lead

While documentary photography is focused on candid moments, that doesn’t mean I won’t guide you at all. During portraits or group photos, I give gentle prompts to help you feel confident and relaxed in front of the camera. I might suggest a spot with great light or give you a little direction to get you laughing or moving naturally, but I’m never forcing you into awkward poses that don’t feel like you. 

Think of it as a mix of guidance and observation. I’m there to help you feel comfortable and to capture what unfolds naturally when you do.

You Can Be Fully Present, And I’ll Handle the Rest

When you hire a documentary-style wedding photographer, you’re freeing yourself up to actually experience your day. You don’t have to worry about what to do with your hands or whether you’re smiling the right way. You just get to be, and I’ll be there capturing the moments that matter most.

So, Is Documentary Wedding Photography Right for You?

If you’re looking for photos that feel honest, emotional, and true to your story, not someone else’s, then yes, it might be the perfect fit. If you want to remember not just the big moments, but the quiet ones too… if you want to look back and see the real laughter, the tears, the hugs, the movement, the joy… this is for you.

I’d love to chat with you about your wedding day and how I can help tell your story in a way that feels real, relaxed, and timeless.

Reach out here to start the conversation.

Hope to hear from you soon,

Rachael