News

Top Wedding Photography Trends To Look Out For In 2024

1. Photojournalistic Or Documentary Photography

As we make our way into 2024, it’s become clear that documentary/photojournalistic photography is among the popular wedding photography trends. This photography style focuses on capturing moments as they happen – candids and without any staged poses or setups. It’s all about storytelling in wedding photography through a series of images, emphasizing the genuine emotions and interactions between the bride, groom, and guests. 

This approach has become increasingly sought-after in recent years as couples strive for wedding photos that are authentic, emotional, and timeless. As a professional photographer, embracing this trend and honing your skills in documentary or photojournalistic photography will help add great value to your portfolio.

2. Blurred Action Photography

Blurred action photography has been around for a few years now, but wedding photographers are taking it to new heights. The technique involves capturing motion and movement in a way that creates a blurred image. This photography style is great for capturing the dance floor or the couple’s first dance, so be sure to give it a try. You can make the best of this trend by using a slower shutter speed, panning your camera, and playing around with different angles. To get more creative, you can use a lens with a large aperture and shoot at night to create a beautiful bokeh effect. This technique, combined with the excitement and energy of weddings, can create some stunning and unique images. 

Suggested Read: Bokeh Wedding Photography Tips And Tricks

3. Direct Flash Photography

Direct flash photography is a trend that has been gaining traction in recent years. This technique involves using a flash that is pointed directly at the subject, creating a sharper and more dramatic effect than normal diffused flash photography.

Direct flash can also be effectively used to highlight the chosen color palette of the wedding. By manipulating the angles and intensity, you can illuminate the rich hues and tones, bringing out the complete depth and personality of the palette in your captures. Use it to emphasize the features of the bride and groom, as well as the wedding details and that of the wedding attire and décor.

4. Film Photography

Film photography is one of the classic wedding photography trends that has come back into style in recent years, providing a unique and timeless look that digital photography cannot replicate. The nostalgic and timeless look from the film’s grains and imperfections creates a romantic and dreamy effect, perfect for capturing the essence of a wedding.

Shooting with film requires a different approach compared to digital photography. Start by choosing the right film stock that fits the mood and aesthetic of the wedding. Use manual settings to adjust exposure, create soft and dreamy focusing, and utilize creative techniques when capturing images. Don’t be afraid to experiment with double exposures, grain, and other film effects to get a unique and beautiful set of photos.

5. Drone Photography

Drone photography has been popular for some time, but it is expected to become even more essential for wedding photographers in 2024. Take advantage of the height and expansive views that drones offer to get stunning aerial shots of the wedding venue and surroundings. Drone footage with aerial shots of the wedding party, wedding ceremony, or reception can add an entirely new perspective and dimension to your photography.

If you’re planning to make the most of this wedding photography trend, make sure to check with the wedding venue if drone photography is allowed and obtain the necessary permits and clearances. 

Suggested Read: Wedding Pro Brent Looyenga’s Guide To Drone Photography

Bonus Trend: The Emergence Of Reality Technologies

Virtual reality photography is already a buzzword in the photography world, but it is not yet widely used in wedding photography. In 2024, we expect this to change. Imagine guiding a couple through a verdant forest, capturing the way the light falls through the trees as they share an intimate moment. With the advancement of VR technology, these experiences are not only possible but can be created with stunning detail and unparalleled beauty. A VR photo booth is also becoming an increasingly popular trend, allowing guests to step into a virtual world and take pictures that capture the spirit and excitement of the wedding day. 

Augmented Reality (AR) is another such reality technology that overlays digital elements onto the real world. While it may seem like something more suited to video games than wedding photography, it’s a trend that’s set to take off in 2024. Imagine a photo album where you can point your phone at a picture and see the couple come to life in 3D or a wedding video that allows you to interact with virtual elements like flowers or confetti. AR has the potential to revolutionize how we capture and share wedding memories.

Further Read: Lighting Styles 101: Wedding Photography Tips & Techniques

Wedding photography trends are ever-changing and dynamic. Staying up to date with the latest photography trends is crucial if you want to stand out in the wedding industry. By embracing these 2024 wedding trends, you can provide your clients with the unique and modern memories they’re looking for. As you expect to see editing styles that’ll create an artistic masterpiece or interactive entertainment that adds a personal touch to each picture, remember to carve out your style that truly reflects who you are as a wedding photographer.

At ShootDotEdit, we are passionate about helping you grow your wedding photography business. A part of how we do that is by lessening your post-production workload with our professional photo editing services. To learn more about how we can help your wedding photography business, check out our pricing plans.