If you’ve been researching wedding photographers, you’ve probably seen these words everywhere:
Editorial. Documentary. Candid. Natural. Timeless.
And you might be wondering…
What do they actually mean — and which one is right for us?

This guide breaks it down in a simple, no-jargon way so you can choose a style that truly fits how you want your wedding day to feel.

Documentary wedding photography: Real Moments, as they happen

Documentary wedding photography focuses on capturing moments as they naturally unfold.
Think:

• Genuine laughter
• Happy tears
• Unplanned interactions
• The in-between moments you didn’t even realise were happening

There’s little to no posing. Your photographer observes quietly, letting the day lead. This style is perfect if you:

• Want your photos to feel honest and unforced
• Don’t love being told what to do
• Care deeply about emotion and storytelling

Editorial wedding photography: Thoughtful, refined, timeless

Editorial wedding photography is inspired by fashion and magazine imagery — but adapted for real weddings.
It focuses on:

• Clean composition
• Beautiful use of light
• Intentional framing
• Gentle direction (never stiff posing)

You’ll still look like you — just in your best, most natural light. This style is perfect if you:

• Love timeless, elegant imagery
• Appreciate thoughtful styling and details
• Want photos that feel elevated but not forced

The truth most photographers won’t say

Most modern wedding photographers don’t sit strictly in one category. And honestly?
That’s a good thing. The most meaningful wedding galleries usually blend documentary moments with editorial refinement — capturing real emotion while still creating beautiful, considered images.

So… Which Style Is Right for You?

Instead of choosing a label, ask yourself:

• Do we want to feel guided or completely hands-off?
• Do we love natural movement or more composed portraits?
• Do we want our photos to feel emotional, elegant — or both?

There’s no wrong answer. Only what feels right for you.

Where My Approach Sits: 80% Documentary, 20% Editorial

My approach to wedding photography is intentionally 80% documentary and 20% editorial.

The documentary side leads the day.

That means most of your wedding is photographed as it naturally unfolds — real moments, genuine emotion, and honest interactions, without constant direction or interruption. This allows my couples to relax, be present, and actually enjoy their day, rather than feeling like they’re performing for the camera.

The editorial element comes in gently during formal portrait sessions — such as couple portraits and family photos — where a little guidance helps create calm, beautifully composed images. This is where I step in with:

• Light direction
• Natural posing prompts
• Thoughtful framing and composition

It’s never stiff or over-posed — just enough structure to create timeless portraits while still feeling like you.

Why This Balance Matters

I’ve found that this balance works beautifully for couples who want:

• A wedding day that feels unforced and relaxed
• Photos that capture real emotion, not performance
• Portraits that feel elevated but still natural

By letting documentary photography lead, my couples often tell me they forget the camera is even there — which is exactly how the most meaningful moments are created.

What This Means for You on the Day
In practical terms, this means:

• You won’t be constantly stopped or posed
• You’ll have space to enjoy your guests and each other
• Your portraits will feel calm, guided, and unrushed

The result is a gallery that feels true to your experience — not just a collection of images, but a story you’ll recognise as your own.

If this style resonates with you, you may like to browse One Avenue’s Wedding Photography Packages — designed to feel relaxed, flexible, and experience-focused.