We expect you have come across different terms for the various styles of wedding photography has been categorised into. Although here at Aspire we endeavour never to stick religiously to any particular format, but to vary our style depending on the setting and feel of the moment - we thought we would just explain what these terms meant, in case you were wondering!
photo journalism
Also known as contemporary, documentary or storybook wedding photography. The idea is an approach based on documentation; telling a story of the wedding day using photographs - capturing the flow of events, rather than recreating it. Usually this involves blending with the crowd, taking pictures while people are not aware they are being photographed. This produces a more intimate, artistic approach - as nothing is being corrected, recreated, or posed.
traditional or classical
This is the oldest style of wedding photography, the traditional 'pose' and then shoot. This usually involves a shot list to check that everyone required has been photographed. Because of the portraiture approach, every detail is usually set, including lighting, facial expressions, background etc. Although this does involve a time commitment most people prefer some of these photos for displaying in a portrait album.
candid
Candid photography is best described as un-posed and unplanned, immediate and unobtrusive. For a wedding, it means capturing the rare moments of 'reality' - shots of people dancing, eating and socialising with other guests, and are often presented in black and white. There is a fine line between photojournalism and candid photography, although photojournalism often sets out to tell a story in images, whereas candid photography simply captures people during the event.