Why More Couples Are Choosing Documentary Style Wedding Photography

One of the biggest shifts we’ve seen in wedding photography lately is the move toward documentary-style wedding photography. More and more couples are trading stiff poses for authentic, in-the-moment captures that reflect the real emotions of their day.

At Starr Photo & Video, we’ve always believed that the most meaningful moments are the ones that happen naturally and that’s exactly what this style is all about.

What Is Documentary Style Wedding Photography?

Documentary style wedding photography, also known as photojournalistic or candid wedding photography, focuses on storytelling. Rather than staging every shot, we let the day unfold and capture the real emotions, connections, and moments that make your wedding day unique.

You’ll still get those must-have images: your portraits, family groupings, and important traditions, but the bulk of your gallery will be made up of real, unposed moments. The tears. The laughter. The in-between exchanges you didn’t even realize were happening.

Instead of spending the day saying, “Look here and smile,” we let you enjoy your wedding while we document everything authentically in the background.

What’s Still Structured?

While the documentary approach is relaxed and candid, there are still a few parts of the day that benefit from a bit of structure. These are important moments, and we make sure they’re captured clearly and beautifully.

• Family & Group Photos: We guide you through these with a calm, organized approach to make them quick and easy. These are usually done after the ceremony or before, depending on your timeline.

• Couple Portraits: While we keep these natural and relaxed, we’ll still set aside time to get some beautiful

  shots of just the two of you—often during golden hour or a quiet moment away from the crowd.

  
  

Once these core images are captured, the rest of the day is all about genuine moments.

What Candid Coverage Looks Like

Here’s how the documentary style wedding photography approach plays out during the rest of your wedding day:

• Getting Ready: We photograph you as things unfold. For example, your makeup, the dress going on, loved ones helping out, happy tears, smiles, etc.

• Ceremony: We stay out of the way so the focus stays on your vows and the meaning of the moment. No interruptions or posed shots here, just real emotion.

• Reception: The toasts, the dancing, the hugs, the spontaneous moments this is where documentary photography shines. We capture the energy and joy of your celebration without making it feel staged.

  
  

Even things like the way your grandma watches you during the ceremony, or your best friend busting a move on the dance floor, those are the moments you’ll want to remember. And they happen best when no one is asking you to pose.

Why Couples Love This Style

There’s a reason why documentary style wedding photography is trending right now, it feels more honest. It allows you to be yourself and stay present in the moment rather than worrying about how you look on camera. It’s especially popular with couples who value authenticity, don’t want to feel “on display” all day, or are simply more camera shy.

When you get your photo gallery back, you’ll relive the story of your day, not just the formal moments, but the little things that made it truly yours.

Starr Photo & Video’s Approach

At Starr Photo & Video, we combine the best of both worlds. We gently guide you through important moments like couple portraits and family photos—but outside of that, we focus on capturing what’s really happening. No stiff poses, no forced smiles—just real love, real laughter, and real memories.

If you’re looking for a wedding gallery that feels like a true reflection of your day, full of emotion and story, documentary-style wedding photography might be the perfect fit for you.

Ready to see more? Check out our recent galleries or reach out to tell us about your wedding plans—we’d love to help document your day in the most authentic way possible.

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