Top Wedding Photography Trends You Don’t Want To Miss
As wedding photographers, you’ve seen it all – the good, the bad, and the oh-so-trendy. You’ve watched wedding photography trends that have made you cheer, cringe, and everything in between. But that’s the thrill of your job, right? You’re constantly on our toes, anticipating the next big thing in wedding photography. Remember the nostalgic charm of disposable cameras? Or the timeless elegance of film photography? Well, they’re back, mingling with the modern! From breathtaking drone shots that capture the grandeur of a wedding venue to those lively, blurry wedding photos that radiate pure joy, there are various trends to explore. So, whether you’re a pro or a newbie with a fresh lens, get ready to be inspired by the top trends that industry experts are suggesting and couples are asking photographers about when it comes to wedding pictures!
Exploring The Latest Wedding Photography Trends
1. Drone Photography: Aerial Shots
In today’s tech-driven world, one wedding photography trend that’s soaring new heights (quite literally) is drone photography! Yes, those futuristic devices that have been delivering groceries and replacing fireworks are now playing a pivotal role in capturing the magic of a wedding day. Drone photography has swooped into the scene, adding an exciting twist to traditional wedding albums. You can showcase the grandeur of your couple’s chosen venue from a bird’s eye view or perhaps arrange the wedding party into a heart shape for a fun photo!
This unique vantage point sets drone photography apart from other photography trends. And when it comes to destination weddings, drones are truly in a league of their own. They can capture the majestic landscapes and stunning vistas that often accompany such weddings, making the photographs as much about the beautiful location as they are about the happy couple. So, if you have not yet invested in a drone or don’t have a team to outsource this to, it might be something to consider.
Related Read: Wedding Pro Brent Looyenga’s Guide To Drone Photography
2. Film Photography: Nostalgic Aesthetics
Contrary to the belief that digital would completely overshadow film, many photographers are finding
unique ways to incorporate this style into their shot list. With its vivid colors, unexpected imperfections, and unique texture, film photography evokes a sense of nostalgia that many couples find irresistible. Amongst the various wedding photography trends, this photography style transports viewers back to simpler times, adding an extra layer of sentiment to the special occasion.
However, it’s important to note that film photography isn’t as straightforward as its digital counterpart. The process involves scanning the film into a digital format and potentially editing it further, which can add to both the costs and the turnaround time for clients. Moreover, quality film development services are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive, adding another layer of complexity.
Still, for those who are willing to embrace these challenges, film photography can provide a distinctive edge in a competitive market. By clearly communicating these factors upfront, you can justify higher service prices while delivering a product that stands out.
3. Photo Booths: A Modern Twist
Interactive photo booths, particularly 360 photo booths, are making a big splash in the wedding photography scene. This trend offers an immersive, engaging experience for guests who may prefer to take a break from the dance floor. Photo booths provide a fun, interactive way for guests to capture their memories, easing the pressure on you to photograph every guest.
Also, many modern booths have features that allow users to text or email their captured moments directly to themselves – no more waiting in lengthy queues for printed pictures! This tech-savvy twist on the traditional photo booth experience makes it a perfect fit for today’s digital age. To make your 360 wedding photo booth stand out, use props and a unique backdrop that matches your couple’s wedding theme or vibe.
So, next time you plan your wedding photography packages, consider the added value a photo booth could bring to your client’s big day. It could be the unique selling point that sets your services apart!
Read More: How To Make More Money: Increasing Income With Photo Booths
4. Candid Imagery: Less Posing
Candid wedding photography focuses on capturing spontaneous and genuine moments as they naturally unfold rather than posed or staged shots. These unscripted photos provide a raw and authentic glimpse into the emotions, joy, and love that define the wedding day. What makes candid wedding photography so appealing is its ability to capture the essence of the moment in its purest form. It’s about freezing those fleeting glances, hearty laughs, emotional tears, and warm hugs that truly encapsulate the spirit of the celebration. This trend is not just about taking pictures; it’s about telling a story – your couple’s story – in the most beautiful way possible.
5. Black And White: Classic Wedding Photos
When it comes to wedding photography editing styles, a timeless trend continues to transcend time – black and white images. Often described as classic, raw, and timeless, these monochromatic photographs have long been a favorite for photographers and couples alike. Despite the hundreds of trends and techniques, many would argue that the charm of black and white photos is evergreen and never goes out of style.
While many aspects of the wedding industry, including photography, have evolved, black-and-white images retain their iconic status. A monochromatic picture of a bride and groom or a bride with her parents exudes an undeniable charm and elegance that is always in vogue.
While color photographs offer a vibrant showcase of details and are fantastic for group shots with the whole family and bridal party, black and white wedding photography is uniquely poised to capture the depth of emotions.
Suggested Read: Black And White Wedding Photos: Why Are They Timeless
6. Blurry Movement: Add Some Life
In the ever-changing landscape of wedding photography trends, the blurry movement is the latest to catch everyone’s attention. This trend breathes life and dynamism into your wedding gallery, giving it a sense of motion and vitality. By using a slower shutter speed, you can capture the enchanting and lively spirit of the wedding day, resulting in photographs that resonate with the heart and soul of the moment. It might sound perplexing – investing in fast lenses and high-end cameras for sharp focus only for you couple to request blurry images. But here’s the thing – it’s not just about blurriness; it’s about the artistic style that adds a dreamy and romantic aura to the photographs. Blur photography can create stunning, memorable images when executed correctly and intentionally.
Read More: The Art Of Candid Wedding Photography: Tips & Inspiration
7. Direct Flash: Dynamic Visuals
The direct flash technique is one of the latest wedding photography trends that has made a grand entrance. This striking trend, characterized by bright, clear, and crisp images with a dramatic interplay of light and shadow, has become a favorite among couples. It gives them the thrilling experience of walking on a red carpet, and who wouldn’t want to feel like a Hollywood star on their big day?
However, mastering this trend can be challenging, especially if you’ve invested time and resources in learning off-camera lighting techniques to minimize shadows or stocked up on bounce tools and softboxes to tame harsh light. If you find yourself struggling with this style, it’s essential to communicate with your clients transparently. Explain why your current approach, if you believe it is superior, might provide images that will look better and maintain their appeal even 10 or 20 years later.
8. Documentary Style: Tell A Story
Also referred to as a storytelling style of imagery, this style requires a detailed discussion with the couple as it involves minimal interaction from the photographer. The role of a true documentarian is to observe and capture, not to direct or interfere. This means no posed shots, additional lighting, or engagement with the subjects. It’s a style that works wonderfully for certain parts of the wedding, such as the ceremony, the first look, or the getting ready moments.
However, it’s crucial to note that a documentary approach might not be suitable for all aspects of the wedding, especially in situations like family or reception photos in poorly lit rooms. Therefore, setting clear expectations is key. If your couple is excited about this hands-off approach, ensure they understand the process and are prepared for the results.
9. Double Exposure Photography
When searching for wedding photography trends, one cannot overlook the enchanting allure of double exposure photography. This creative technique layers two images over one another, either digitally or on film, weaving a unique narrative that encapsulates the essence of the couple’s love story. Simply put, it’s storytelling through the lens but with a twist of whimsical charm and surreal beauty that’s anything but ordinary.
This trend is not just about capturing moments but about creating a vivid picture of the couple’s wedding day story. The resulting photographs are deeply personal, reflecting the couple’s unique bond in a dreamlike way. What sets double exposure photography apart in the panorama of wedding photography trends is its ability to tailor each image to the couple’s distinct narrative. This means that every couple who embraces this trend will have a set of pictures that are as unique and special as their own love story.
Further Read: Wedding Photography Styles: ShootDotEdit’s Favorites
Applying The Latest Trends To Your Photography Practice
As wedding photography trends come and go, these nine diverse styles offer a rich palette of creative options. From the breathtaking perspectives of drone photography to the dramatic flair of direct flash, each trend brings its unique magic to the table. The artistry of black and white, the dreamy allure of blurry movement, the authenticity of candid shots, and the immersive documentary style all contribute to capturing the essence of love on your couple’s special day. So, which of these wedding photography tips and trends will you choose to master? We’re excited to hear your picks!
At ShootDotEdit, we are passionate about helping you grow your wedding photography business. A part of how we do that is by lessening your post-production workload with our professional photo editing services. To learn more about how we can help your wedding photography business, check out our pricing plans.
