Current Wedding Photography Trends
Not only are weddings looking different in 2023 than years before, the way we capture them is changing as well. Wedding photography trends and styles are constantly evolving and growing – and we are always so excited to dive into what’s new and next!
Wedding photos and video styles are also changing with the times and these stunning images are truly making us excited to showcase weddings this year. Like many of the other décor and planning trends we are seeing, authenticity and intimacy is at the heart of how we capture these celebrations.
Look through some of the current wedding photography trends below.
Candid Moments
The days of the overly posed wedding photo may be behind us. Many photographers note that those in-between images from the day, where natural joy and emotion shine through, are many of their clients’ favorites. “I love that couples are loving real moments captured,” says photographer Ryan Ray. “My clients have been less about a shotlist and more about being present and enjoying their day.”
Wedding photographer Larissa Cleveland adds, “I’m thrilled to see clients letting go of overly staged Pinterest moments and embracing candid, imperfect, authentic imagery that really captures the spirit of their day.”
Film Photography
While digital photography remains a staple for most wedding photographers, they share that requests for film have been on the rise.
Film photography offers a nostalgic aesthetic many have fallen in love with over the years. The unedited quality, unexpected imperfections, vivid coloring, and unique texture allow viewers to venture back to a sweeter, simpler time. In 2023, many couples are documenting their precious wedding memories through film photography like those of past generations.
“We are loving that couples seem to be growing in their appreciation of different types of film formats right now,” shared Shannen Norman and Emily Blake, the team behind Norman & Blake. “I’ve been loving the resurgence of film, particularly with point-and-shoot cameras,” says photographer Sasithon Pooviriyakul. “The images have a nostalgic, fleeting quality, especially for dancing and party photos.”
This also ties in that connection with your guests.
Photos Taken by Guests
While hiring a great wedding photographer is essential to capture all the big moments and details of your wedding day, some couples are giving guests the opportunity to catch unique and intimate shots on their own.
One big trend for 2023 is leaving out polaroids and disposable cameras for attendees to use at the dinner table or take with them on the dance floor. This expands upon the film trend with a more personal view from guests at the center of festivities.
Not only will you receive nostalgic, whimsical shots of your wedding day, but your guests will have fun hunting down your to-capture images.
You can also dive into the photobooth world here, as well!
Direct Flash
If you love bright, clear, crisp photography with an obvious yet stunning distinction between light and shadow, you’ll adore the new direct flash trend that is sweeping through weddings of 2023. You’ll feel like a glamorous movie star when that light hits.
Especially so on the dance floor, you’ll get to relive those moments in pure clarity and fun!
Blurry Movement
Want to add some life and movement to your wedding gallery? If so, Instagram’s blurry movement wedding photography trend is one to keep in mind! Many photographers are using a slower shutter speed to capture the magical, lively nature of your wedding day. You can really feel the heart and soul behind these photographs — as though the subjects are about to wander off the page.
Drone Shots
Couples looking to get a broader look at their wedding design might be intrigued by the trend to use drones to capture photos (and videos) of their nuptials. From overhead shots of their reception décor to pulled back views of the ceremony from above, this method definitely can bring more gravitas to an image.
Photographer Jenny Quicksall says it’s one trend she hopes will grow in 2023 as; “It gives such a grand and different perspective of an event or moment.”
Elevated Photo Sets
While the photo booth is definitely not a new addition to weddings, more couples are looking to elevate the experience with beautiful drapery and décor to enhance and elevate the experience. Wedding photographer Amy Anaiz shares that she expects to see more “interactive ‘set’ photo booths that guests can enjoy and get more editorial style photos” in the coming year.
What’s Your Style
What are you most looking forward to for your wedding photography style?