How I Blend Documentary and Editorial Styles to Create the Perfect Southern California Wedding Experience

When you choose your wedding photographer, it's unbelievably important to like their style. Today, we'll look at the style of storytelling, which is just one of many elements of style, and I'll tell you why I choose to blend the 2 styles for the perfect experience and beautiful photos.

So --

What style of wedding photography should you choose to tell your story?

The 2 Main Wedding Photography Styles

Storytelling in photography frames the approach a photographer may take in freezing a moment in time. The storytelling piece is essential for weddings because these are more than just photos - it's a reflection of your love.

Knowing the storytelling style of your photography will help you feel comfortable to sit back and let them capture your love in a genuine way that aligns with your personality and your story.

The 2 main storytelling styles that a wedding photographer may take are documentary or editorial.

In a nutshell, documentary photography observes moments unfolding and editorial photography shapes

Understanding Documentary Photography

There's all this buzz lately about the documentary, cinematic photographer style.

What the heck does that mean?

Documentary wedding photography centers on natural storytelling. It focuses on candid moments and genuine emotions, avoiding staged scenes. You might think of a documentary photographer as a fly on the wall.

I love the style of a documentary wedding photographer because it allows you to be your natural selves without interfering with the present moment.

For instance, picture a bride sharing a heartfelt laugh with her grandmother while getting ready. Moments like this are the heart of my work - you don't get that same emotion by posing it!

Let's be real. The second you point a lens at someone or ask for a picture, the feeling changes instantly. Candids don't ask for permission. You just have to be there, anticipating those little moments.

There are a couple of downsides to documentary photography, though. Here are some reasons why documentary photography may not be right for you:

1. You want direction & are unsure what to do. Some couples do not like a lot of PDA or just don't know what to do with their hands! (Who does? lol)

2. You are more reserved or don't like spontaneity. I see a lot of people loveeee documentary-type photos, yet when they see a moment they like, they assume it was just 100% spontaneous. It might've been, orrrr, they practiced that dip down the aisle, orrrr, she asked him to pick her up and spin her around for the photo. Most of the time, you have to make those moments happen. If you're really reserved, you might need more prompting or posing to help you get there.

3. You like posed photos. Documentary photos are very unposed & casual. If your personality tends to lean towards more of those dramatic, magazine-style photos that are a bit more "buttoned up" and classic, than you probably want to look into editorial wedding photography.

My approach is to blend into the background for the big events, like cake cutting and first looks, capturing the raw emotions of the day as they unfold. Research shows that couples prefer natural, unscripted moments, with 75% of newlyweds valuing candid photos over posed ones. No matter what your preferred style is, you are bound to get some "documentary-style" photos of the day.

Candid smiles as couple walks out as husband & wife for the first time

Understanding Editorial Photography

Conversely, editorial photography is more styled and visually driven. It’s about creating impactful images that reflect the couple’s unique vision. As an editorial photographer, I carefully consider composition, lighting, and mood when capturing shots.

When it comes to portraits, editorial is the way to go most of the time. Typically, you'll set aside time on your wedding day or another day for couple's portraits and individual portraits.

With only so much time, I'll give you the exact poses to do, guiding you through every moment to make the most of the portraits.

For example, if I discover gorgeous light coming through a window at the venue, I might guide the couple into that light, facing the bride towards the window looking out, while her partner holds onto her arm from behind and looks lovingly at her.

Creating this moment is more intentional and will have a stunning result.

As always, there are downsides to every style.

Here are some reasons why editorial photography may not be right for you:

1. You really don't like taking pictures or are really laid back. It's not everyone's jam, and that's okay. Maybe best to just capture you as you are. Your personality may not be getting these dramatic photos but rather the two of you just having coffee and sharing vows or walking around the venue after saying "I do" and soaking up that you are married.

2. You get really uncomfortable in front of the camera or don't like the attention on you. If you freeze up or get really rigid, it may be better to move around more and pretend the camera isn't there.

3. You prefer spending your time in the moment or don't have the time for a lot of photos. The time it takes for posed photos may be better used for alone time between you and your partner or to spend with family and friends. That's okay! Stick with your partner throughout the night, and you'll get photos of the two of you enjoying your day.

Guided groom brushes hair from bride's face in editorial sunset portrait

Why I Embrace Both Styles

As a wedding photographer in Southern California, I believe in capturing every raw moment to tell your love story.

Combining documentary and editorial photography offers couples a richer experience. This dual approach allows me to narrate their unique story while capturing both candid emotions and artistic details.

Every couple has a distinct story, and I tailor my photography to reflect their individual personalities. This fusion gives couples the best of both worlds, with authentic moments and elegant portraits that they can treasure forever.

Practical Tips for Couples

For couples planning their weddings, here are some effective tips to maximize both documentary and editorial photography:

1. Communicate Your Vision: Share what moments matter most to you and your preferred styles. Clear communication leads to better results.

2. Trust Your Photographer: Allow your photographer the freedom to capture spontaneous moments. Their expertise can lead to beautiful, authentic images.

   
   

3. Balance Portraits and Candid Moments: Set aside time for formal portraits, but also embrace the spontaneous. This blend enhances your final gallery.

   
   

4. Choose a Meaningful Venue: Select locations that resonate with your style. Whether it’s a charming garden or a stylish rooftop, the right venue creates stunning photos.

   
   

5. Stay Present: Focus on the love and joy surrounding you. The best moments often happen when you immerse yourself in the experience.

   
   

Final Thoughts on Blending Styles

Blending documentary and editorial photography provides a unique storytelling experience for each couple I work with. In the diverse tapestry of Southern California weddings, this combination captures authentic moments while delivering beautiful portraits.

At the end of the day, you have to decide what is the style that best resonates with you & will outlast all of the trends and social media posts. Weddings are not a photoshoot - they are not for Vogue, social media, your family, your friends, or anyone else you might want to impress.

With so many photography styles, trends, and social media themes, my goal is to stand out by combining documentary and editorial styles.

If you are planning your wedding, consider how both styles can enhance your vision, creating a visual narrative that you and your loved ones will cherish forever.