But this guide is for photographers who wish to shoot weddings using a documentary style. As time passes, I hope to go deeper into several topics.
Why I shoot weddings in documentary style
The simplest answer is this: I would like to cover my wedding in the following way. I don’t like group photos or carefully posed portraits. I am naturally shy and introverted, and I think that most people look better when captured in their natural state. (There are people who can play for the camera but I’m not one!)
I believe that weddings should be a celebration of love, and an opportunity to celebrate with friends and family. Every minute counts and the day is rushing by. I would not want to spend my precious time on photography.
What are the qualities of a documentary wedding photographer that you should look for?
This is something that anyone can do, not just quieter photographers like myself. I know documentary filmmakers who are the life of the party. You need to be able to use your camera well and have empathy and curiosity. Here’s a list of skills that you will need to develop as a wedding documentary photographer.
Observational Skills A documentary wedding photographer needs to have an eye for details and the ability to capture unscripted, spontaneous moments. They must be observant, and able to read emotions and body language to anticipate photo opportunities.