An Overview of Different Wedding Photography Styles

Your wedding day is going to be a whirlwind of activities and emotions. Between greeting guests, following an itinerary, and handling last-minute details with vendors, you may find it difficult to stop and appreciate the hard work you’ve put into making this day come to life. This is why you want to find the right photographer to capture this special moment. Reviewing different wedding photography styles can help you feel confident about your choice. Consider these options and determine which aesthetic suits you best.

Going With a Classic Approach

Though there are many ways to go about your wedding photos, you may find the traditional method most appealing. Classic wedding photography involves a mix of posed portraits and group shots. The photographer will gather the couple, the wedding party, and specific relatives and friends to take a variety of staged pictures. If this is your preferred style, you want to hire a professional with a lot of experience directing large groups, especially if there are children involved. The photographer should also have familiarity with posing people naturally and effortlessly. 

Capturing the Romance

In recent years, many couples have opted for a light and airy aesthetic. Essentially, this style involves taking photos that utilize natural light to set a tone that is both romantic and whimsical. A professional specializing in this kind of photography may also prefer taking some pictures on film, as classic cameras produce a subtle grain that gives a soft texture to the finished product. Though this option can work for any event, it is ideal for outdoor weddings or during the spring and summer. 

Telling a Story

Staged photos may not be your preference. Some people find posing for pictures to be unnatural and awkward, which is why another popular choice to consider is candid photography. With this method, the photographer will act like a fly on the wall of your event and capture pictures without getting in the way of the celebration. The end result tells the story of your big day as it actually happened, showcasing you and your guests enjoying the festivities naturally. Photographers with a background in journalism often excel with this aesthetic. 

Creating a Mood

Do you have a flair for the dramatic? If so, you may want your wedding photos to capture your epic personality. Some photographers are exceptional at creating a specific mood that stands out from other wedding pictures you have seen. Examples of moody photography can include warm tones, oversaturated colors, and bright flashes. This style combines fashion photography and traditional wedding pictures, creating a finished product that perfectly showcases your sense of adventure. Explore sites such as Pinterest and Tumblr to get a better feel for the different ways to go about using mood-driven photos. 

Finding the Right Emotion

Since weddings tend to be emotional events, you may want your photos to reflect everything you’re feeling on your big day. A photographer who centers his or her work around emotional responses can deliver pictures that perfectly capture everything you experienced during this milestone. Instead of using a traditional approach of asking you to stand and pose, the photographer will interact more with you and your guests. He or she might ask you to tell the story of how you met your partner or recall a funny anecdote to capture the intense, beautiful emotions that flow forth. 

Discovering the Best Style

Picking the right photography style for your wedding is no small task. Take time to explore the variety of aesthetics available to you and discover a fit that perfectly reflects your tastes.

Upcoming Wedding Trends To Consider for Your Big Day

Wedding trends tend to come and go. If you’re planning your own wedding, however, you may want to be aware of the hottest and most interesting fads to see which aligns with the vision you have of your big day. Take a look at the trends that have been emerging in recent months and see if any are a good fit for your big day. 

Secret Photos

Hiring a wedding photographer is a great way to guarantee you get some excellent pictures of your guests enjoying the reception. However, one trend is pushing away from relying solely on the posed work done by professionals. Nowadays, couples are asking the people they hire to focus predominantly on taking candid shots throughout the event. A photographer who has experience in this area will be able to take hundreds of pictures without anyone ever realizing they are being photographed. 

While posed photos are nice, they often can feel forced and uncomfortable. Embracing the concept of candid wedding photography can help you uncover a plethora of phenomenal images related to your big day. You are guaranteed to get better pictures of your event when your subjects are not aware that they are being photographed. You’ll see your family members and friends caught in genuine moments of raw emotion in these pictures, which can be worth a lot more than a handful of photos where everyone is simply smiling and posing.

Little Is Big

Countless people throw large, elaborate weddings each year. Lately, there has been a popular trend moving away from big, showy events. Instead, people are embracing the concept of “less is more.” Specifically, couples are utilizing miniature versions of wedding staples. As an alternative to a giant wedding cake, for example, couples are offering cupcakes or other small desserts. Everything from the bridal bouquet to the favors can be miniaturized, so it is easy to get creative with this concept.

Cold and Bold

Once upon a time, ice sculptures were viewed as the pinnacle of elegance at high-end events. While the trend went out of style for a few decades, it seems to be making a reappearance in many modern weddings. Technology has come a long way in recent years, allowing sculptures to be crafted into specific, intricate designs. The choice does not have to be primarily cosmetic, either. Plenty of people functionally use their ice sculptures, such as using it as the base for a raw bar.

Another angle to consider with an ice sculpture is an ice luge. This is a structure that is kept at the bar and used as a way for guests to enjoy chilled shots. If the luge features more than one “path” for the alcohol to travel, guests can drink together and make the experience into a friendly competition of “who will the liquor reach first?”

Surprises Abound

Though your wedding day is all about you and your partner, you likely have an urge to “give back” to your guests in some capacity. While favors are the traditional way to achieve this, one current trend has couples embracing the idea of really astounding their friends and family. Little surprises can go a long way when it comes to making your big day memorable for all. 

Do you think your guests will be hungry at the end of the night? Hire a food truck to sit outside the venue and hand out hot meals to the crowd before they depart. Want to entertain your guests creatively? Utilize the services of a magician or performance artist and give your loved ones a show they won’t soon forget. 

Make the Day Memorable

No matter the vision you have in your mind for your big day, there are sure to be many interesting wedding trends that will appeal to your needs. Explore the current fads that couples are raving about to see how you can enhance your event and make it one to truly remember.

Tips for Including Your Pet at Your Wedding

Bringing a pet into your family is one of the most special and unique experiences you can have in life. As you begin to plan your wedding day, you might notice that you can’t stop thinking about what your beloved furry friend will be up to while you’re busy getting hitched. Why not include them in the events? Here are 10 tips to help you include your pet at your ceremony and other marriage festivities.

1. Check with Your Venue

Before diving into pet-related plans, check with your favorite wedding venues about their pet policies. Some places may have restrictions, so it’s crucial to confirm that they are pet-friendly. If they are, inquire about any specific guidelines they may have for bringing animals onto the premises. Alternatively, you may choose an outdoor or backyard venue to accommodate your four-legged pal.

2. Choose the Right Role

If your heart will be happier with your pet by your side on this momentous day, pick a role for them to play. Popular options include:

  • Ring bearer
  • Flower pet
  • “Best Dog” or cat, etc.
  • Guest greeter

Consider your pet’s temperament and training to determine the best fit. If your furry friend is calm and well-behaved, then walking down the aisle will be a breeze.

3. Practice Makes Perfect

Rehearse with your pet leading up to the big day. Familiarize them with the venue, and train them to do the specific actions they’ll be performing during the ceremony. Regular practice will help them feel more comfortable and confident on the actual day.

4. Pick Pet-Friendly Attire

Design their outfit early. A cute bowtie, floral collar, or even a tiny tuxedo can add charm to your pet’s appearance. Ensure that whatever you choose is comfortable for them to wear and won’t cause any distress.

5. Designate a Pet Handler

Assign someone you trust to be your pet’s handler on the wedding day. This person can be responsible for bringing your pet to the venue, taking them for bathroom breaks, and ensuring they are comfortable and well-behaved throughout the celebration. Having a dedicated handler allows you to focus on enjoying your special day without worrying about your pet’s well-being.

6. Capture the Moment

Work with your photographer to plan shots that include your pet. Discuss specific poses or shots you have in mind to ensure nothing is missed.

7. Embrace a Pet-Related Theme

To let your guests know how much your pet means to you, add in some pet-themed decor, reception goodies, and signature cocktails that display your love of animals. Including your pet in the overall theme of the wedding adds a cohesive and personal touch to the entire event.

8. Pet-Safe Treats

Offer safe treats for your pet to enjoy during your event. Whether it’s a special cake, dog-friendly cupcakes, or treats they love, having something to reward them for their good behavior is a thoughtful touch.

9. Plan for Breaks

Pets, like humans, can get tired or overwhelmed. Plan for breaks in your pet’s schedule to allow them some downtime. This is especially important if your celebration lasts for an extended period.

10. Inform Your Guests

Let people know that your pet will attend your wedding. This is particularly important for guests with allergies or fear of animals, but it may also inspire your friends to bring their companions along too.

You should get to spend your wedding day with those who are closest to you, including your furry family members. Whether you simply bring them along to the venue so you can check on them throughout the day or you arrange for your pet to be part of the ceremony, your animal companion will love being near you for such an important occasion.

Bringing a pet into your family is one of the most special and unique experiences you can have in life. As you begin to plan your wedding day, you might notice that you can’t stop thinking about what your beloved furry friend will be up to while you’re busy getting hitched. Why not include them in the events? Here are 10 tips to help you include your pet at your ceremony and other marriage festivities.

You should get to spend your wedding day with those who are closest to you, including your furry family members. Whether you simply bring them along to the venue so you can check on them throughout the day or you arrange for your pet to be part of the ceremony, your animal companion will love being near you for such an important occasion.