Posed Vs Documentary Wedding Photography – What’s the Difference?

When couples across Devon, Somerset, and beyond ask me about wedding photography, one question always comes up: What’s the difference between posed vs documentary wedding photography – and which style do you use?

The short answer? I’m documentary-led through and through. But I do sprinkle in a little relaxed direction during your couple portraits – nothing stiff or overly posed – just enough to help you feel confident while still being completely you.

Let’s break it down…

Posed vs Documentary Wedding Photography – Explained

Documentary wedding photography is all about storytelling. It’s natural, candid, and real – capturing moments as they happen, without interfering. Whether it’s your best friend bursting into laughter during the speeches, a quiet moment with your nan, or that excited look just before the ceremony, I’m there documenting it all as it unfolds.

Posed wedding photography, on the other hand, tends to be more structured. Think traditional group photos or staged portraits – often with fixed positions and a more formal feel.

But here’s the thing: that’s not really my vibe.

My Approach: Natural, Relaxed, and You

As a wedding photographer covering Devon, Somerset, and the South West, my focus is on documenting your day just as it is – full of real emotions, natural interactions, and all those little in-between moments you didn’t even know were happening.

The only time I use a tiny bit of direction is during your couple portraits, and even then, it’s all very soft and gentle. No rigid posing. No awkward instructions. Just a few simple prompts like:

• Walking hand in hand

• Spinning and laughing

• Holding each other

• Looking into each other’s eyes (or sneaking a kiss!)

  
  

It keeps everything flowing, natural, and relaxed. I want your photos to feel like you – not like a photoshoot.

So if you’re someone who isn’t super confident in front of the camera, don’t worry. I’ve got you. We’ll keep things light and easy, so you can enjoy the moment together while I capture the magic.

Why This Gentle Balance Works So Well

By focusing on documentary wedding photography and gently guiding you through your couple photos, I can create a gallery that’s full of life, joy, and authenticity – with a few frame-worthy moments of just the two of you, glowing with newlywed energy.

It’s the perfect approach for laid-back couples, camera-shy people, and anyone who wants their day to feel real, not staged.

Let’s Keep It Real (And Gorgeous)

So if you’ve been wondering about the difference between documentary vs posed wedding photography, hopefully this helps you see that you don’t have to pick just one. You can have stunning, natural photos that tell the real story of your day, and a few gentle, loving portraits of you both looking incredible – without any awkwardness.

If that sounds like your kind of vibe, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s capture something real together.

Contact Me