Weddings have always evolved with the times, mirroring shifts in culture, technology, and personal expression. From vintage film photography to the DIY charm of an uncle’s trusty camcorder, each era brings its unique flavour to wedding traditions. Today, couples are embracing a fresh approach that combines the best of both worlds—paying homage to timeless traditions while creating a celebration that feels deeply personal and modern.
Welcome to the era of documentary-style weddings—an immersive, authentic way to celebrate that’s as much about the experience as it is about the aesthetic.
What Defines a Documentary-Style Wedding?
A documentary-style wedding isn’t about avoiding posed photos altogether. Instead, it’s about prioritising the moments that feel real, unscripted, and brimming with emotion. While couples might not walk into their planning meetings saying, “We want a documentary-style wedding,” they often express their vision in ways like:
“We just want everyone to have an amazing time.”
“The vibe of the day is really important to us.”
“We’d love to include meaningful family traditions.”
“We don’t want anything that feels stiff or overly formal.”
A prime example of this trend is Sofia Richie’s much-talked-about wedding. While her celebration was undoubtedly luxurious, its true allure was its effortlessly relaxed atmosphere. The photos told a story that felt alive—capturing joy, intimacy, and elegance in a way that didn’t feel staged but rather beautifully natural.
The Essence of the Documentary Approach
At its core, a documentary-style wedding is about storytelling through candid moments. It’s not just about posed shots of the couple but about capturing the in-between moments:
The groom sneaking a laugh during the vows.
Guests clinking glasses mid-toast, caught in a wave of emotion.
The bride and groom stealing a quiet moment under the stars.
While these moments may feel spontaneous, creating a wedding that exudes this kind of organic beauty takes thoughtful planning and collaboration between the couple and their vendors.
How to Curate a Documentary-Style Wedding
Bringing this vision to life requires intentionality and teamwork. Here’s how to craft a day that feels natural and authentic:
1. Plan for Purposeful Moments
Although the aim is to capture candid moments, they don’t happen entirely by chance. Work with your planner to incorporate meaningful experiences, such as:
A heartfelt exchange of letters or gifts before the ceremony.
Family members passing down heirlooms, like jewelry or a special memento.
A quiet first look that allows the couple to share an intimate moment before the whirlwind of the day.
These planned moments provide a framework for authentic emotions to shine.
2. Create a Stress-Free Timeline
The key to capturing relaxed, natural moments is to ensure the day flows smoothly. A rushed timeline creates stress, which will inevitably show in the photos. Build in time for:
Getting ready: Allow photographers to capture the joyful chaos of pre-ceremony preparations.
Cocktail hour: Ensure there’s time for guests to mingle and interact organically.
Reception highlights: Leave space for the couple to truly enjoy their toasts, dances, and mingling with loved ones.
Photo Credit: Clara Cooper Photography
3. Design a Thoughtful Atmosphere
The setting plays a critical role in creating a documentary feel. A well-designed venue with cohesive decor ensures every moment looks intentional and effortlessly beautiful. Key elements include:
Personal touches: Incorporate heirlooms, handwritten notes, or bespoke details that reflect the couple’s story.
Ambient lighting: Use candles, string lights, or soft natural light to create a warm and inviting glow.
4. Incorporate Local and Sentimental Details
From florals native to the region to a signature cocktail inspired by the couple’s story, personal details add layers of meaning. These touches not only resonate with guests but also provide photographers with rich, story-driven elements to capture.
5. Let the Couple Be Present
The secret ingredient to a successful documentary-style wedding is a relaxed couple. The more the couple is able to immerse themselves in the joy of the day, the more authentic and emotional the moments will feel. A skilled vendor team will handle the logistics, ensuring the couple can focus on celebrating.
Why Documentary-Style Weddings Resonate
This trend isn’t just about photography—it’s a mindset. Documentary-style weddings prioritise the experience of the day, allowing couples and guests to savor every moment. From the laughter during a speech to the quiet joy of a sunset dance, it’s about creating an event that feels as good as it looks.
So, whether you’re planning an intimate garden affair or a grand ballroom celebration, consider embracing the documentary style to craft a day that’s as unique as your love story. Because, at the end of it all, the moments that matter most are the ones you never saw coming.
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