Claire McClean Photography

My Approach to Documentary-Style Wedding Photography

Documentary-style wedding photography of the bride and groom sitting with their wedding guests

As a documentary-style wedding photographer, I understand the importance of capturing every moment of your special day. However, I also believe that the process of taking those photos should be just as enjoyable and stress-free as the rest of your wedding day.

That’s why I have a candid approach to my relaxed wedding photography. With my laid-back style, I aim to capture the natural story of your wedding day while keeping things fun and casual – from the timeline to the portraits – ensuring that you are comfortable and able to truly enjoy your big day. 

Let’s dive into my approach to documentary-style wedding photography and see how we can make your wedding photos reflect the love and joy of your day.

My Documentary-Style Wedding Photography 

Documentary-style wedding photography of the bride and groom hand in hand

Relaxed Timelines: Taming the Chaos of Weddings

Weddings – a magical time filled with love, laughter, and an occasional dash of chaos.

You see, I believe that your wedding day should be a time of joy and celebration, not a never-ending list of scheduled events. So, I take a more laid-back approach to timelines. 

Sure, we’ll know when certain events will take place, but I won’t be breathing down your neck with a stopwatch in hand – that’s not my style.

Instead, I’ll blend seamlessly into the background, capturing those special moments as they unfold naturally. Whether it’s your grandmother shedding a tear during the ceremony or your best friend busting out her best dance moves at the reception, I’ll be there to capture it all without disrupting the flow of your day.

And let’s not forget about the unexpected surprises that often come with weddings. Maybe your ring bearer decides to take a detour during the processional or the groomsmen spontaneously break into an impromptu sing-along.

These unplanned moments are what make your wedding uniquely yours, and I’ll be there to document them in all their glory with my documentary-style wedding photography.

So, let’s toss out the rigid timelines and embrace a chilled approach – check out my blog post here where I give you my tips for creating a relaxed wedding day timeline.

Documentary-style wedding photography of the bride and groom walking through the streets hand in hand

Picture Perfect without Posing – The Art of Candid Photography

Who needs posed, rigid portraits when you can have the beauty and authenticity of candid wedding photography?

Let’s face it, no one wants to look like a robot in their wedding photos. That’s why I have mastered the art of capturing the perfect candid shots.

Gone are the days of forced smiles and awkward poses. With my documentary-style wedding photography, I focus on capturing the genuine moments that make your love story unique. Whether it’s a stolen glance between you and your partner or a belly laugh shared with your closest friends, I’ll be there to freeze those precious moments in time.

And let’s not forget about the hidden gems that often go unnoticed. It could be the way your veil catches the wind or the tears of joy streaming down your mother’s face. These are the moments that can’t be staged or recreated. They are raw, emotional, and absolutely beautiful.

With my keen eye, I’ll capture the magic of your wedding day without you even knowing it. 

Documentary-style wedding photography of the bridesmaids holding the brides veil

My Laid-back Approach to Photography

When it comes to photography, everyone has their own style.

Some people prefer formal, posed portraits, whilst others prefer a more honest approach. And if you’re here, I am guessing that documentary-style wedding photography is your cup of tea!

Picture you and your partner, going through the motions of your big day. As you laugh and share intimate moments, I’ll be there, capturing every single one of them. But here’s the best part – you won’t even know I’m there. 

You’ll feel comfortable and relaxed, allowing your true personalities to shine through in every photo. Whether you’re a couple who loves to joke around with each other, or a couple who loves to snuggle up and share quieter moments, I’ll tailor my approach to suit your style.

Documentary-style wedding photography of the bride and groom hand in hand on the ground of their wedding venue

Adding Fun into Portraits

Ah, the dreaded portraits. The moment when you have to put on your best smile and try not to look awkward.

But don’t worry, with my documentary-style wedding photography, I believe that your wedding day should be a day filled with joy, not forced smiles and uncomfortable poses. So, when it comes to portraits, I like to keep things light-hearted and fun.

Instead of the traditional “say cheese” approach, I’ll have you and your partner doing things that truly reflect your personalities. Whether it’s something as simple as walking towards me and looking at each other, exploring round the city centre together, or just sharing a moment alone, we’ll capture those genuine moments that truly showcase your love.

Of course, we can always take what I call the ‘mantelpiece photo’ for your nan too if you need a more traditional one of you smiling at the camera.

Documentary-style wedding photography of the bride and groom sitting with their wedding guests

The Importance of Keeping You Comfortable

Let’s face it, weddings can be nerve-wracking.

There’s so much pressure to look perfect and act a certain way. But guess what? My documentary-style wedding photography is all about making you feel at ease.

Why should you have to fake a smile or strike a stiff pose when you’re supposed to be enjoying the happiest day of your life?

So, when it comes to your wedding day, I’ll make sure you feel at ease. No awkward directions or forced smiles here. Instead, I’ll create an atmosphere where you can be yourselves, where you can let loose and have fun. 

If that means taking a break from the portraits to have a quick dance party or sharing a private moment with your partner, then that’s exactly what we’ll do. I want you to look back on your wedding photos and remember how amazing you felt in that moment. 

This is also why it is so important for us to get to know each other – if you match with a photographer who shares the same vibe as you, you will be just fine!

After all, your wedding day should be about celebrating your love, not stressing about how you look. So, let’s keep things casual, let’s keep things fun, and most importantly, let’s keep you comfortable throughout the entire process.

Ready to Create Your Wedding Memories?

Relaxed and candid photography for your wedding is what you want to ensure a beautiful album full of memories that tell your personal love story.

With my approach to documentary-style wedding photography, we can achieve just that. 

And, I will not just be your photographer but I will be your biggest cheerleader and friend. But first, we need to get to know each other and I want to hear about the exciting day you have planned – get in touch!