Wedding photography has come a long way since the days of stiff, posed portraits. Today, more and more couples are opting for a more candid, documentary style of photography that captures the raw emotions and unscripted moments of their big day. But what exactly is documentary style wedding photography, and why should you consider it for your own wedding? In this guide, we'll take a closer look at the history, benefits, and downsides of this popular photography style, as well as tips for finding the perfect documentary style wedding photographer in Toronto.

What is documentary style wedding photography?

Documentary style wedding photography is a type of photography that aims to capture the real, unscripted moments of a wedding day. This style of photography has its roots in photojournalism and news reporting, where photographers strive to capture candid, unposed shots that tell a story. In the context of wedding photography, this means capturing everything from the big moments (like the first kiss as husband and wife) to the small details (like the bride's grandmother wiping away a tear during the ceremony).

The benefits of documentary style wedding photography

One of the biggest benefits of documentary style wedding photography is that it captures authentic and unscripted moments. Unlike traditional, posed wedding photography, documentary style photography allows you to see the real emotions and interactions between you, your partner, and your guests. This can make your wedding photos feel much more personal and meaningful.

Another benefit of documentary style wedding photography is that it often results in more natural-looking photos. Because the photographer is capturing real moments as they happen, rather than directing people to pose a certain way, the photos often look more relaxed and candid. This can be especially appealing for couples who want to avoid the stiff, formal look of traditional wedding photography.

The downsides of documentary style wedding photography

While there are many benefits to documentary style wedding photography, it's important to be aware of the downsides as well. One downside is that documentary style photos can sometimes look too raw or unpolished. Because the photographer is capturing real moments as they happen, there may be instances where the lighting or composition isn't as perfect as it would be in a posed photo.

Another downside is that documentary style photography can be more challenging for the photographer. Because the photographer isn't directing the action, they need to be highly skilled at anticipating and capturing important moments as they happen. This can make it more difficult to get the perfect shot.

Who is documentary style wedding photography for?

Documentary style wedding photography is a good choice for couples who value raw emotions and unscripted moments. If you're looking for a more candid, relaxed approach to wedding photography, and you want to avoid the stiff, formal look of traditional wedding photography, then this style may be right for you.

How to find a documentary style wedding photographer in Toronto

If you're interested in documentary style wedding photography and you're getting married in Toronto, here are a few tips to help you find the perfect photographer:

One of the best ways to find a photographer is through word of mouth. Ask friends who have recently been married for recommendations.  Your friends have likely gone through a similar research process and can potentially save you some time.  Another great option is to do a Google search for “documentary style wedding photographer Toronto”.  This will give you a list of photographers who are located in the area, and you can read reviews and check out their portfolios to find the right fit for you.

Once you have a short list of photographers, review each one's portfolio and see if their aesthetic aligns with your vision for your wedding day.  For example, if you are drawn to black and white photos, find someone who has a strong portfolio in this area.

It's also important to consider their pricing to ensure it fits within your budget. Make sure to have a clear understanding of what is included in their packages and don't hesitate to ask for clarifications.  The transparent and easy-to-work with vendors usually have their wedding photography packages available online.

Ultimately, choose a photographer whose work you love and who you feel comfortable working with.