Which Wedding Photography Style Matches Your Love Story? A visual guide for modern romantics & style-led couples

Your wedding photos aren’t just snapshots—they’re heirlooms.

They’re how your love story will be told long after the music fades and the florals are repurposed into keepsakes. But not all photography is created equal. Some couples want that “Vogue cover” energy. Others crave the warmth of real, unscripted moments.

If you’ve ever said, “I don’t know the name for it, but I know the vibe,” this cheat sheet is for you. Here’s a visual guide to the most popular wedding photography styles—with real examples and Instagram accounts to follow—so you can find the one that fits your vision best.

Portrait Photography

Clean, posed, and polished. Focuses on the face or upper body, with soft lighting and creamy backgrounds.

Inspo: @davidsuhphoto

Candid Photography

Spontaneous and emotion-filled, capturing moments you didn’t know were happening.

Inspo:

@intocandidphotography

@ariaphotographyaus

Fine Art Photography

Romantic, dreamy, and full of intention. Think painterly compositions and film-like textures.

Inspo:

@ktmerry

@brookeshaden

@lenalimphotography

Documentary Photography

Unposed, raw, and often in black and white. Tells the story exactly as it happened.

Inspo:

@nikkibakerphotography

@alysonkayphotography

@lilibsphotography

@carringtonvisuals

Lifestyle Photography

Effortless and cozy. Captures warm, relaxed moments in a natural way.

Inspo:

@jillrichardsphotography

@andreamaciasimages

Editorial Photography

Fashion-forward and dramatic. Think Vogue, but wedding.

Inspo:

@rebeccasearlephotography

@thehowardbrand

Bold & Colorful

Bright, vibrant, and full of energy. Perfect for colorful venues and joyful couples.

Inspo:

@brightandboldphotog

@crystalgenesphotography

Dark & Warm (Moody)

Cinematic and cozy. Deep tones, warm hues, and a dramatic feel.

Inspo:

@scarlettmichelephoto

@moodybleuphotography

@themallets

Classic / Traditional

Everyone looking at the camera, polished poses, and timeless elegance.

Inspo:

@classicphotographers_

@annakrasnova_photographer

Photojournalistic / Reportage

A visual diary. Every moment, emotion, and laugh—documented naturally.

Inspo:

@tripp.photo

@tuckerhousephoto

Black & White Photography

Minimal, emotional, and timeless. Focuses on feeling, not distraction.

Inspo:

@thereafterphoto

@gracebrownphoto

Film-Inspired / Hybrid

Soft, nostalgic, and filled with light. Uses actual film or edits digital to feel like it.

Inspo:

@shootitwithfilm

@chellisemichaelphotography

@perigeephotoco

Final Thoughts

Your photos should feel like you. Whether you love the drama of editorial, the warmth of lifestyle, or the rawness of documentary, the style you choose tells the story of your day.

Not sure which one’s right? I help my couples identify what feels most aligned during our planning process—because your love deserves to be seen in its truest light.