Formal vs Informal Wedding Photography

Understanding Formal vs. Informal Photography Styles

There are countless names for the different styles of portrait and wedding photography, but in general, they fall somewhere along a formal–informal spectrum.

Some photographers are going to lean more towards a formal, posed and controlled style of photos, others will be off hiding in the bushes national geographic style. Most photographers are a unique blend of both, but will lean more heavily one way or the other.

There’s no right or wrong with any of these styles—it’s all a matter of preference.

Knowing about the different styles and what to expect with them will help you in your journey of finding and hiring a photographer who is going to capture your special day in a way that will make you say "wow" for years to come.

The Formal Style

On one end, you’ve got the super polished, tightly controlled look.

Think backdrops, professional lighting, and a whole production that might make you feel like you’re starring in a high-budget commercial.

Here's what you're looking at with a formal photographer:

• They’ll nail those picture-perfect family portraits. Everyone will look like they belong in a glossy magazine.
• They’ll tell you exactly where to stand, how to pose, and maybe even how to breathe (okay, I’m exaggerating—kinda).
• You're going to get flawless, posed photos that scream elegance.



If you’re dreaming of something timeless and artsy for your walls, this might be your jam.

The Informal Style

Then there’s the other end of the spectrum—the laid-back, documentary-style approach. This is the “let’s just hang out, pretend I’m not here, and capture real moments” vibe.

Here’s what you’ll get with an informal photographer:

• Candids for DAYS. They’ll catch you wiping away happy tears or cracking up with your bestie.
• No awkward posing. They’ll hide behind a bush if they have to (yes, really) to snag those real, raw moments.
• A vibe that feels more “chill day with your people” than “lights, camera, action!”

Perfect if you want photos that tell a story and feel as real as your love.

The Cons of Each Style

No style is perfect. Both formal and informal photography have their quirks that might make you want to toss your bouquet at someone.

Formal Photography: The Drama Queens

• It can feel stiff. If you’re not used to posing or being told how to angle your chin for the 50th time, a formal photographer might stress you out. Think yearbook photos—but, you know, fancier.
• It’s time-consuming. Those picture-perfect poses take time. Like, “Sorry, Aunt Carol, you’re gonna have to wait an hour to hug the bride” kind of time.
• It can miss the raw moments. While they’re busy setting up the perfect shot, they might miss Grandma busting a move on the dance floor or your partner sneaking a happy tear.

Informal Photography: The Wild Cards

• Less polished. Let’s be honest: candids are cute, but not every moment is frame-worthy. Chances are you’ll end up with lots of shots of double chins, your mouth open mid-chew or making questionable faces.
• Not great for direction-needy folks. If you’re someone who freezes in front of the camera without clear guidance, informal photographers might leave you feeling a bit lost.
• Risk of missing the “money shot.” Sometimes, chasing all those in-the-moment feels means less focus on the classic, must-have portraits (like that generational lineup with Grandma).

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to capture your wedding. It’s all about what makes you feel the most comfortable, confident, and true to yourself.

Whether you’re in love with those polished, formal shots or you’re here for the raw, unscripted moments, the key is finding a photographer who gets you.

This is your day, and your photos should reflect your vibe. So go with the style that speaks to your heart, hire a photographer who makes you feel like a total rockstar, and trust the process.

Because whether it’s perfectly posed, delightfully candid, or some hybrid combo of the two, the most important thing is that your photos capture the love, joy, and you-ness of your story.

Now, go find that perfect match and make some magic happen!

May the odds be ever in your favour,