Wedding photography styles can vary a lot, and understanding the differences can help you choose a photographer with confidence. Some photographers take a hands-off approach, while others give more direction throughout the day. Each style affects how your day is photographed and what your final images look like.
This guide explains the most common wedding photography styles in the UK, how they work on the day, and which types of couples they are best suited to.
Traditional Wedding Photography
Traditional wedding photography, sometimes called classic wedding photography, focuses on posed portraits and organised group photographs. The photographer takes a clear lead, guiding couples, families and wedding parties into position so everything is photographed clearly.
Time is usually set aside for formal family photos and couple portraits, with key moments documented throughout the day. Images tend to be well-framed and consistent, making them easy to print and share.
This style suits couples who want structure, clear direction and a complete record of their wedding day.
Documentary (Reportage) Wedding Photography
Documentary, or reportage, wedding photography captures the day as it happens, with very little direction from the photographer. Rather than posing people or arranging moments, the photographer works quietly in the background, focusing on natural interactions and reactions.
The emphasis is on telling the story of the day as it unfolds, rather than creating posed images. Group photos may still happen, but they are usually kept informal or brief.
This style suits couples who want relaxed, candid images and prefer not to spend time posing.
Editorial Wedding Photography
Editorial wedding photography is more styled and guided, taking inspiration from fashion and magazine photography. The photographer will often direct poses, use specific lighting, and choose strong backdrops to create polished images.
Time is usually set aside for portraits, with clear guidance on positioning and movement. The result is a gallery that balances key moments with visually striking portraits.
This style suits couples who are comfortable with direction and want stylish, posed photographs.
Fine Art Wedding Photography
Fine art wedding photography focuses on light, colour and composition, often creating a soft and consistent look across the gallery. Photographers working in this style pay close attention to framing and detail, including flowers, fabrics and décor.
Direction is usually gentle, helping couples feel natural rather than heavily posed. Images often have a lighter colour palette and a calm, refined feel.
This style suits couples who prefer elegant images with a cohesive, considered look.
Modern / Creative Wedding Photography
Modern or creative wedding photography combines natural coverage with creative techniques. The photographer may use unusual angles, reflections, movement or light to add interest to images.
Most of the day is still captured as it unfolds, with creative shots mixed in rather than dominating the gallery. This approach adds variety without interrupting the flow of the day.
This style suits couples who want natural photography with a contemporary, creative edge.
Film Wedding Photography
Film wedding photography uses analogue cameras and film rather than digital files. Images often have softer tones, natural grain and less contrast, with results that vary slightly depending on light and film stock.
Because film requires careful exposure and limited frames, coverage is often more considered and less continuous than digital photography. Some photographers combine film and digital coverage across the day.
This approach suits couples who like the look of film and are comfortable with a slower, more selective way of shooting.
Drone Wedding Photography
Drone wedding photography uses aerial images to show the venue and surroundings from above. It is most often used for outdoor spaces, large grounds or scenic locations.
Drone shots are usually taken at specific points in the day, rather than continuously. Permission from the venue and suitable weather conditions are required.
This style suits couples getting married in locations where the setting plays a big part in the day.
Black and White Wedding Photography
Black and white wedding photography is usually an editing choice rather than a standalone style. By removing colour, the focus shifts to expression, emotion and contrast.
Photographers often choose black and white for moments like the ceremony or speeches, where feeling matters more than setting. These images are typically included alongside colour photographs.
This approach suits couples who like expressive images with a simple, timeless feel.
Wedding photography styles vary for a reason. Once you understand how each approach works, it's easier to recognise the styles you're drawn to when viewing real wedding photography.
If you'd like to see how these styles look across real weddings, you can browse trusted UK wedding photographers on Guides for Brides.