Top Wedding Photography Trends You Need to Know

Jun 16, 2025By Pat Iri
Pat Iri

Embracing Natural Light

One of the most popular trends in wedding photography is the use of natural light. Photographers are moving away from artificial lighting setups and embracing the beauty of sunlight. This approach not only saves time but also creates a more organic and authentic feel in the photos. Couples love the soft, romantic glow that natural light provides, making their special moments even more magical.

Natural light photography often results in images that are both timeless and elegant. Photographers take advantage of golden hour—the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset—to capture stunning photos with warm, flattering tones. If you're planning a wedding, consider scheduling your photo sessions during these times to make the most of this trend.

golden hour wedding

Documentary-Style Storytelling

Gone are the days of stiff, posed wedding photos. The current trend is all about capturing genuine moments in a candid, documentary style. This approach focuses on telling a story through images, highlighting the emotions and interactions of the day. Couples are looking for photographers who can seamlessly blend into the background and capture the essence of their celebration without intrusion.

The result is a collection of images that feels personal and meaningful, allowing couples to relive their wedding day exactly as it happened. This trend emphasizes spontaneity and authenticity, making each photo unique and full of life.

documentary wedding photography

Drone Photography

As technology advances, so do wedding photography trends. Drone photography has become increasingly popular, offering a bird's-eye view of the wedding venue and guests. This perspective adds an epic dimension to wedding albums, capturing the grandeur of outdoor ceremonies and receptions.

Drones are perfect for showcasing scenic venues or large gatherings. However, it's important to consider any legal restrictions or requirements when incorporating drones into your wedding photography plans. Always hire a professional who is experienced in drone operation to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations.

drone wedding photos

Bold and Moody Edits

While bright and airy photos remain a classic choice, bold and moody edits have made a significant impact in recent years. This trend involves enhancing contrast and deepening colors to create a dramatic effect. These edits can add depth and richness to wedding photos, making them stand out with a cinematic quality.

Couples who opt for this style often appreciate its artistic flair and emotional intensity. It's an excellent choice for fall or winter weddings, where the moody aesthetic complements the season's natural palette.

moody wedding photography

Incorporating Film Photography

Despite living in a digital age, film photography has made a nostalgic comeback in the world of weddings. Many photographers are incorporating film cameras into their equipment lineup to capture the timeless beauty and texture that only film can provide. The grainy quality and subtle imperfections of film images add a vintage charm to any wedding album.

Film photography requires a skilled hand and an understanding of manual settings, so it's crucial to choose a photographer who is experienced with this medium. The result is an album that blends modern digital images with classic film photographs, offering a unique and varied collection for couples to treasure.

film wedding photography