Within a previous posts we began to discuss the process of how find a wedding a photographer and things to consider. If you recall, we covered Post Processing, and Photographer Experience. That left us with Style, which we will cover today. Let’s dive in!
Styles
Each photographer is an artist, each will look at the same thing and see it differently. Although each photographer will see it a bit differently, we are able to categorize them into different styles.
I would say there are five key styles, and I am sure someone else may say there is 4 or 6, etc., but we will discuss these five styles today.
- Traditional
- Photojournalistic
- Editorial
- Dark and Moody
- Aerial
Traditional
A traditional approach will always be around, may not be the most popular style, but is has and will stand the test of time. The traditional approach is posed images, nothing to creative, but you will have nice even lighting, normal looking color, and nothing too fancy.
Photojournalistic
A photojournalistic approach lets the moment of the day unfold. This is not to say you won’t have those family portraits after the ceremony, but that is likely the most posed you will be all day. This approach seeks to capture the moments as they unfold throughout the day. It tells the story of the day and does force anything to be told, simply captures the moments in their natural beauty.
Editorial
Think magazine photos. Editorial wedding photography is like that, posed and looks like a fashion photoshoot. Images are posed and have a unique flare to them.
Dark and Moody
Dark and mood has a special look to it. It has harsh lighting that highlights certain aspects to the image.
Lite & Airy
Is problem the most popular style. It offers a bright, cheerful and clean approach to the images. Images may appear to be a bit over exposed in some areas, but the subjects pop. Photographers will have their subject have the sun to their backs as to avoid direct sunlight which will create harsh shadows Often times, people will associate this style as using all natural light, but that is not the case. Flashes and off camera flashes are used, but evenly light the image to create the lite and airy feel.
Summery of Styles
When you hire a wedding photographer you will want to ensure their style matches your desires. Determine your style and find a photographer that has that style. If you find a photographer, and ask them to change their style, that could create difficulties for both of you.
Personally, I take from a more photojournalist approach. I tend to focus more on letting the moments happen and capturing them. When creating images of your wedding day, I also tend to keep images true to color, and not edit the images in a style that adjust the color to make it appear warm, dark and moody. It is all personal preference, and I wish you the images you desire so be sure to find a photographer that matches your style. With all this said, it is not to say that I will do some more traditional images or editorial, but the majority will be focused on the moments as they unfold.
In summary, as you search for your wedding photographer I would suggest these few takeaways…
- Know your style
- Shop around
- Review an entire gallery
- Understand their process
Additional Notes
When you hire a someone that is putting their own name on the work, there is something to be said for that. That person has worked to create their own style and knows it inside and out. They are putting their name on it. They usually have more skin in the game and are willing to go the extra mile for you. Here are Tim Fuller Photography, you work with me, Tim Fuller, the whole way through. This allows us to not be strangers meeting on your wedding day. It allows me to get to know you so that I can best capture your special day. I hope you find this helpful and I look forward to working with you if you so chose!
