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What is Documentary Wedding Photography? Why is it Better?

Updated: May 13

Also known as Photojournalistic Wedding Photography...


At Martin Creates, we've noticed that there have been some shifting trends in the wedding photography industry as in recent years, couples of all ages, genders and cultures have wanted their special day captured differently.


bridal preparation at a wedding captured in black and white

Why is reportage documentary style wedding photography better?


When it comes to visual expression, there is seldom a "right" and "wrong". Art is usually very subjective, so Martin Creates will explain, based on experience, why documentary style photography is a growing trend. Of course there are composition rules, and common sense can guide us.


Some of the best photographers I've studied or even shadowed - where I've had the privilege - rely on capturing real moments that form part of a story rather than their editing skills. This ensures the story remains authentic and true. It usually comes from having an affinity for street photography. Street photography trains the mind to see stories in any surroundings from textures to personalities. This same skill is transferable to wedding photography because your aim is to appreciate and photograph important details that would otherwise - quite easily - go unnoticed by others. That way, when a married couple look back at their wedding photos, they're quickly reminded of the most important day of their lives and can relive those special emotions again, and again.



bride and groom embrace at a Nigerian wedding ceremony


Martin Creates embodies versatile wedding photography which means that I adapt to the requests in the brief and deliver something that the client will cherish as its personal to them. That's really important to me because I see a lot of talented photographers forcing their personal style on people whereas my mission as a wedding photographer is to empower people worldwide with photography and video. Empowerment comes from working together and my job is to understand and express the client's vision the best way I can.


If left to my own freedom, I will gravitate more towards reportage documentary style wedding photography whilst still ensuring that some conventional wedding photography features in the final wedding album. By conventional wedding photography, I mean the classic group shots, portraits, wedding cakes, etc. Often people worry it will look "cliche", but we often take the most obvious things for granted. The facial expressions, outfits, textures and everything will still warm the heart when looking back.


the bride dances in a crowd during the wedding ceremony

In conclusion, be creative and humble when choosing your preferred style of wedding photography in the brief. You will love the process of exploring and learning about wedding photography. At Martin Creates, there is no ego, judgement or boredom when it comes to documenting your wedding. We make it a priority to bring the best energy possible to ensure your special day is unforgettable. Martin Creates will cover any wedding photography and video brief from LBGTQ and same sex weddings, Asian weddings, Middle Eastern weddings, African weddings, Slavic weddings and more. Whether you're getting married in the UK or overseas, it always helps to have a consultation and follow-up meetings leading up to the big day. I will always do my best to inspire my clients by showing them lots of examples of my work and from others until we have the most complete mood board and shot list possible. Preparation is imperative for success.


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