Wedding Photography Styles Explained: Find Your Perfect Match

Okay, real talk. You just got engaged and now you’re diving headfirst into wedding planning. Fun, right? Until you realize there’s like a million decisions to make and honestly, it’s overwhelming.

But here’s one thing you really can’t mess up—your photographer. Because twenty years from now, you’re not gonna remember what flavor the cake was. But those photos? They’re forever. And that’s why picking the right person matters so much.

Now, when you start looking for wedding photographers Virginia Beach, you’ll notice pretty quick that everyone shoots differently. Some albums look super polished and magazine-perfect. Others feel raw and emotional. And honestly? There’s no right answer. It’s about what feels like you.

Let me walk you through the different styles so you’re not totally lost.

The Traditional Route

This is what your parents probably had. You know—everyone lines up, looks at the camera, smiles on cue. The photographer’s basically directing a movie, telling people where to stand and when to say cheese.

Is it boring? Not necessarily. Some couples actually want that structure. They want the guaranteed shot of all the grandkids together or the full wedding party doing their thing. Nothing wrong with playing it safe, especially when family photos matter.

Photojournalistic Stuff (The Candid Approach)

This is where the photographer becomes invisible. They’re just… there. Documenting. Not interrupting your grandma’s speech or making you redo that moment you teared up.

I’m biased, but this style? It’s magic. You get the real moments. Your best friend ugly-crying during vows. Your dad trying not to lose it walking you down the aisle. The flower girl eating flowers (yes, that happens). It’s messy and perfect and real.

Downside? You gotta be okay with not controlling everything. Some people hate that.

Fine Art (Basically Gallery-Worthy)

Suppose of this as art first,  marriage prints second. These  shutterbugs  watch about lighting, composition,  murk  each that specialized stuff. Your  filmland end up looking like they belong on a gallery wall. It’s gorgeous. No doubt. But it takes further time to set up shots and you need a shooter who really knows their craft.However, you will presumably fall hard for this style, If you are into aesthetics and have an eye for design.

Editorial Vibes

You’ve seen Vogue, right? That’s editorial. It’s high-fashion, it’s trendy, it’s polished within an inch of its life. Your photographer might ask you to pose in specific ways or choose locations that photograph well.

Great if you want that influencer-style shoot. Just know it’s not super spontaneous. You’re creating art here, which means more direction and planning.

Dark and Moody (For the Non-Basic Couples)

Not everyone wants sunshine and rainbows. Some couples prefer rich colors, deep shadows, and that dramatic romantic feel. Kinda gothic, kinda intimate, totally stunning.

Evening weddings are perfect for this. Industrial venues too. It’s definitely a vibe—and not for everyone. But if you’re tired of seeing the same bright and cheerful photos everywhere, this might be your jam.

Light and Airy (The Pinterest Favorite)

Opposite end of the spectrum. Everything’s soft, bright, dreamy. Lots of natural light, gentle colors, that slightly overexposed look that screams “romance.”

Beach weddings love this style. Garden ceremonies too. It’s insanely popular right now because honestly? It’s beautiful. Can feel a bit trendy though, so think about whether you’ll still love it in 10 years.

Mixing It Up (Because Why Choose?)

Here’s the thing nobody tells you—most photographers blend styles. You don’t have to pick just one.

Maybe you want those traditional family portraits (because Grandma will literally never forgive you if you don’t). But during the ceremony? You want candid, emotional shots. That’s completely normal and most pros can handle it.

Just communicate what you want. Show them prints you’ve saved on Instagram. Be upfront about whether you’re comfortable posing or if you’d rather just move naturally while they capture candid moments.

And if you’re already thinking ahead to future sessions — like family photos Williamsburg VA when the kids come along — ask your photographer how their style translates across different types of shoots. Consistency in style can be a really beautiful thing.

Actually Finding the Right Person

Look, at the end of the day this isn’t just about pretty pictures. It’s about trust.

You need someone who gets your vision. Who won’t make you feel awkward. Who can handle Aunt Susan’s demands for specific shots without losing their cool. Who’ll stay calm when the timeline falls apart (and it will, something always happens).

Spend time looking through portfolios together. Like actually sit down with your partner and scroll through their work. Do certain photos hit different? Does one style keep pulling you back?

Trust that feeling. Your gut knows.

And don’t rush this decision just because you’re stressed about booking vendors. These photos are gonna be on your walls, in albums, shown to your future kids. Find someone whose work makes you feel something, not just someone who’s available and reasonably priced.

Bottom Line

There’s no “best” photography style. There’s only what’s best for you two.

Some couples need that traditional structure. Others want zero posing. Some want art, some want memories, some want both. Figure out what matters most and find a photographer who delivers that.

And remember—your wedding’s gonna be amazing regardless. But the right photographer? They’ll make sure you can relive it forever, exactly how you want to remember it.