Introduction
Wedding photography is one of the most magical parts of a wedding. It has the ability to capture all the small, fleeting moments that make the day special. As we look ahead to 2024 and 2025, several trends are emerging that will help couples get the most out of their wedding photos. Just as time changes, so do styles and trends in wedding photography. Staying updated on the latest trends can provide you with photos that not only tell your unique love story but also capture the beauty of the moment in a way that feels both modern and timeless. By embracing the latest in the art of photography, you can ensure that your wedding photos become a perfect combination of personal significance and aesthetic beauty.
Photo by Chaiko & Markstedt Photography
Section 1: Trends
1. Documentary style
Description of the Documentary Style and Its Popularity
Examples of How This Style Captures Genuine Emotions and Moments
2. Vintage and Film Photography
The Resurgence of Vintage and Film Style in Wedding Photography.
How These Styles Create a Timeless Feel in Wedding Photos
3. Drone wedding photagraphy
Drones offer the advantage of capturing wedding photos from unique angles and perspectives that are otherwise impossible to achieve. They can provide stunning aerial shots of the venue, landscape, and guests, adding a dramatic and cinematic element to the wedding album.
Tips for Making the Most of Drone Photography During Weddings
4. Intimate Weddings and Micro Weddings
How the Trend of Smaller, Intimate Weddings Affects Photography
Tips for Capturing Special Moments in Small-Scale Ceremonies
Section 2: Tips for getting the Best Wedding Photos
1. Preparations & Planning
The Importance of Planning Photography in Advance
Tips for Creating a Detailed Photo Plan
2. Communication with Wedding Photographer
Communicating Your Needs and Wishes to the Photographers
Questions to Ask Photographers During Interviews
Tips for Being Comfortable in Front of the Camera
How to Capture Natural and Relaxed Photos
4. Timing and lighting
Scheduling Your Day to Maximize Perfection
Summary of the Main Content
A Call to Action
New Trends in Wedding Photography and Tips for Getting the Best Wedding Photos
When it comes to capturing one of life's most important days, wedding photography plays a crucial role. Every couple wants beautiful and memorable pictures to look back on for many years to come. To ensure that your wedding photos are as wonderful as you want them to be, it is always a good idea to be aware of the new trends in wedding photography. Below, we discuss some of the popular trends and offer tips to ensure you get the best photos on your big day.
New Trends in Wedding Photography
Documentary style - Everlasting
by Chaiko & Markstedt Photography
More couples are opting for a documentary style, which captures the day's events as they unfold naturally. This style emphasizes candid moments and genuine emotions, creating a more authentic and personal collection of memories.
A Tip! It's important not to confuse the documentary style in wedding photography with being "boring." A skilled photographer in this style not only captures natural and spontaneous moments but also ensures that the couple and guests pose in a way that doesn't look staged. The photographer uses their experience to create a story through the images, and it's not just a straightforward depiction of the wedding. Each moment and each photo is carefully composed to convey emotions and atmosphere, making the photographs feel genuine and vibrant.
Wedding Photography with Drone
by Chaiko & Markstedt Photography
Wedding photography with drones has become increasingly popular. Photographers can create fantastic images from above using drones, which adds a distinctive and dramatic feel to your wedding photos. Drone photography is perfect for capturing images of the entire wedding.
A Tip! Don't forget that there are now many restrictions on flying drones, especially in densely populated areas. If you want to create something extra special with drone photography, we or another wedding photographer need to plan in advance. If a permit is required, the photographer must apply for it well in advance of the wedding. An alternative is to go outside the city where there are fewer restrictions.
Tips for Making the Most of Drone Photography During Weddings
Hire a Professional: Ensure that the drone operator is experienced and licensed to fly drones, especially in crowded or restricted areas.
Plan Ahead: Discuss specific shots you want to capture with the drone, such as the ceremony from above, the reception layout, or a group photo of all the guests.
Check Regulations: Be aware of local laws and regulations regarding drone usage to avoid any legal issues.
Consider the Weather: Drones are sensitive to weather conditions, so plan for good weather to ensure the best possible shots.
Communicate with Your Photographer: Coordinate with your ground photographer to integrate drone shots seamlessly with traditional photos for a cohesive wedding album.
Vintage och Film Photography
Photos edited with the intention of recreating a film/vintage feel.
Bilden by Chaiko & Markstedt Photography
Vintage and film photography have become very popular when it comes to wedding photography. Vintage refers to a style reminiscent of older times, often with a romantic and nostalgic feel, while film photography involves using old-fashioned film rolls instead of digital technology, giving a special and unique feel to the images. This trend is not only on the rise but has remained consistently high for a long time, as many couples want something timeless and unique to remember their big day.
Additionally, it's quite safe to invest in vintage and film photography, as this trend has been stable over the years. Other trends that emerge quickly often become less popular after a while.
An example of a short-lived trend in wedding photography, regarding photo editing and toning, is the so-called "matte finish" trend. For a period, it became very popular to edit wedding photos with muted colors and a soft, almost blurry effect that gave the images a subdued, dreamlike feel. While this style may still be used by some photographers, it has generally decreased in popularity as many now prefer bright, clear, and natural colors that better capture the real feel of the day.
Tip 1: An important tip for creating and editing photos in a vintage and film style is to understand the significance of lighting conditions to capture the right mood and authentic feel in the images. Vintage and film photography often require softer, more natural light to avoid harsh shadows and overexposure. Therefore, plan the photography session during the golden hour, which is the first hour after sunrise or the last hour before sunset. Pay attention to locations and times that will provide the best conditions for creating timeless and romantic photos that match the vintage aesthetic you desire.
Tip 2: While a clear color tone in all of a photographer's pictures can be appealing, you may tire of it over time. It's best if your future photographer has a consistent and neutral color tone in their portfolio.
Intimate Weddings, Mini Ceremonies & Micro Weddings
This photo is a portrait of a bride and groom taken during a mini-ceremony/micro-wedding in the middle of the forest near Gamla Uppsala. Only the couple's closest family and their children are present at the location.
by Chaiko & Markstedt Photography
Intimate weddings, elopements, mini-ceremonies, and micro-weddings are all expressions of a trend where couples choose more personal and scaled-down weddings instead of large, traditional ceremonies. Intimate weddings usually involve a smaller, close gathering with only the nearest and dearest, creating a more personal and meaningful experience. Elopements are ceremonies where the couple marries in secret or without telling many people, often in a remote or special location that is significant to them. Mini-ceremonies are small, simple ceremonies typically held with only a few close ones present, sometimes as a precursor to a larger celebration later. Micro-weddings are a combination of these concepts, where up to 50 guests are invited to create a more intimate yet festive atmosphere.
These types of weddings have become popular due to their flexibility and the opportunity to focus on what truly matters to the couple. They also allow for cost savings and reduce the stress often associated with large weddings. The trend can be seen as a reaction against traditional wedding norms and a desire for a more personal and authentic experience.
One should not forget that these new trends are largely a result of the recent COVID pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns. The pandemic, with its restrictions and safety measures, has increased the demand for smaller and more intimate weddings. These circumstances have led many couples to celebrate in a simpler and more personal way, adapted to the new reality. A Tip! Remember that a wedding today is about celebrating your marriage on your own terms. The size of the wedding and the number of guests should be exactly as you wish. It is your day, and your celebration is what matters most.
Tips for Capturing Special Moments in Small-Scale Ceremonies
Focus on Details: With fewer people and a more intimate setting, pay close attention to the small details, such as decorations, personal touches, and candid interactions.
Capture Emotions: Take advantage of the close-knit environment to capture raw and genuine emotions, whether it's a tearful vow exchange or a joyful laugh.
Use the Setting: Utilize the unique and often picturesque settings of intimate weddings to create beautiful and memorable images.
Be Discreet: Blend into the background to capture natural and unposed moments without disrupting the intimate atmosphere.
Plan with the Couple: Work closely with the couple to understand their vision and ensure that the most important moments and details are captured.
Tips for Getting the Best Wedding Photos
Preparations and Planning
Planning the photography in advance is crucial for getting the best photos. Create a detailed photo plan that includes important moments you want captured, such as the first kiss, ring exchange, and first dance. Discuss this plan with your photographer to ensure that no significant moments are missed.
If you find it difficult to come up with ideas and inspiration, always ask your photographer. They always have plenty of this. A Tip! Try not to copy or get fixated on photos you've seen before. Sometimes, or even often, you can create something even better that suits you perfectly. At Chaiko & Markstedt, we have a planning guide and checklist that you can download anytime to help plan your dream wedding. Download our planning list.
Tips for Creating a Detailed Photo Plan
Discuss with Your Photographer: Meet with your photographer well before the wedding to discuss your vision, preferences, and must-have shots.
Create a Shot List: Make a detailed list of all the key moments and specific photos you want, including family portraits, candid shots, and any special requests.
Scout the Venue: Visit the wedding venue with your photographer to identify the best spots for photos and to plan the logistics of moving between locations.
Plan the Timeline: Incorporate time for photography into your wedding day schedule, allowing for different sessions such as getting ready, the ceremony, and the reception.
Coordinate with Other Vendors: Ensure that your photographer is aware of the timing and activities planned by other vendors, such as the caterer and DJ, to capture every important detail.
Communication with Wedding Photographer
One thing to remember is to have a good discussion with your photographer. Talking with your photographers is key to success. Ask them to describe their style, experience, and how they would handle specific situations on your wedding day. This will help you feel secure and prepared. A Tip! If you can't find anything in your wedding photographer's portfolio that you truly love, it's a strong indication that you may not get the style or quality you desire.
When interviewing wedding photographers, it is essential to clearly communicate your needs and preferences to ensure they understand your vision. Here are some questions to ask:
What is Your Photography Style?
Understanding their style will help you determine if it aligns with your vision for your wedding photos.
Can We See a Full Wedding Gallery?
Reviewing complete wedding albums will give you a better idea of their work across an entire event.
How Do You Handle Low-Light Situations?
It's important to know how they manage lighting challenges, especially for evening receptions.
What Is Included in Your Packages?
Clarify what services and products are included in their pricing packages to avoid any surprises.
Do You Work with a Second Shooter?
Having a second photographer can provide additional coverage and different perspectives.
How Do You Handle Changes or Emergencies?
Ask about their contingency plans for unforeseen circumstances.
Can We Provide a Shot List?
Ensure they are open to incorporating your specific requests and must-have shots.
What Is Your Turnaround Time for Photos?
Knowing when you can expect to receive your photos is crucial for managing expectations.
Posing and Taking Natural Photo
There is always a sense of uncertainty for people when they are being photographed. Posing for the camera is almost always awkward. A good tip to avoid this on your wedding day is to ask your photographer for some tips. It's also good to stay relaxed and not worry too much about the camera—the best photos are often the ones where genuine emotions and events are captured. A Tip 1 At our studio, we usually tell our couples that they don't need to look into the camera. By avoiding eye contact with the camera, a sense of intimacy is created, making it feel like you have time and space to yourselves. We believe that photos where people are staring into the camera belong to the past. Instead, you can gently touch each other, for example, caress each other's cheeks, or kiss without smashing into each other. Focus on each other and enjoy the moment together.
A Tip 2
There are plenty of things you can ask the couple and guests to do that will create spontaneous, fun expressions, movement, and emotions. We always bring a cheat sheet with questions and ideas about what to say to the couple or guests to create something fun and genuine. Feel free to download it here and use it whether you are getting married or photographing a wedding..
General Tips for Being Comfortable in Front of the Camera
How to Capture Natural and Relaxed Photos
Be Yourself: The most important tip is to relax and be yourself. Authentic emotions and genuine interactions look best in photos.
Trust Your Photographer: Build a good rapport with your photographer and trust their guidance. A professional photographer will know how to make you feel at ease.
Practice Beforehand: Consider doing an engagement shoot or a pre-wedding session. This helps you get used to being in front of the camera and understand what poses work best for you.
Focus on Each Other: If you are being photographed with your partner, focus on them rather than the camera. This will help you appear more natural and relaxed.
Move Around: Instead of holding stiff poses, try moving around and interacting naturally. Walk, talk, laugh, and enjoy the moment.
Breathe and Relax: Take deep breaths and try to relax your body. Shake out any tension before the shoot.
Timing and Lighting
Natural light and the time of day play a significant role in wedding photography. To get the best photos, plan the day so that you utilize natural light. Golden hour, the hour just after sunrise and before sunset, has that beautiful, golden light perfect for romantic photos. Check with the photographer about when to take those dreamy pictures.
A Tip! Don't stress about having the sunniest weather for your wedding photos. While sunshine is lovely and we all love it, it can actually be quite tricky for photography. Instead, consider that your wedding photographer should be skilled in handling flash lighting and be able to bring both light sources and light modifiers. With the right equipment, fantastic photos can be created regardless of the weather. So whether it’s cloudy, rainy, or sunny – with a good photographer, you are guaranteed stunning photos!
Summery
With all these trends and tips, you will have amazing photos of your wedding day to remember for a lifetime. Don’t hesitate to contact us at Chaiko & Markstedt Photography to discuss capturing your special occasion in the best possible way. We are here to help create memories that will last forever with wedding photography in Uppsala, Stockholm, or wherever you can imagine.
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