You’ve probably heard of documentary wedding photography—maybe you even like the idea of natural, unposed moments. But then the worries creep in…


💭 Will we get ANY photos where we actually look good?
💭 Wait… does this mean zero direction? Just chaos??
💭 So no couple portraits AT ALL?


Let’s set the record straight! Documentary wedding photography isn’t just snapping random moments and hoping for the best. It’s an art. And no, we won’t be hiding behind a plant, refusing to speak to you all day.


So as a 10 year +++ wedding photographer, let me bust some myths!

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Ashley + Mark Documentary Style Elopement in Niagara Falls, Canada. Mini Moments Video shot by Black Saddle Photography

Myth #1: Documentary Photographers Don’t Give Any Direction


Truth: You won’t be left clueless!


While we won’t force you into overly posed shots, we will guide you when needed—like helping you find good light, picking a relaxed spot for portraits, or reminding you to slow down and soak in the moment.


Think of it like this: We’re not directors, but we are storytellers. We know where to stand, what to look for, and how to make sure the magic unfolds naturally (without making you feel like you’re in a photo shoot).


Check out these natural and candid pose ideas.
- The Vintage Collection-


Pictures from Aly + Josh Wedding

The Portage Inn, Huntsville, ON

Wedding photographer walks down a sunlit garden path through tall grasses and wildflowers on a summer day.
Intimate wedding photo showing couple sharing romantic laughter outdoors with bride in lace backless dress and veil.
A couple embraces in a wedding photo taken outdoors with evergreen trees visible in the background.
A couple strolls together on a wooded path during golden hour as sunlight filters through autumn trees.
Flowing white veil catches wind behind couple embracing during romantic outdoor wedding moment.
A romantic wedding portrait showing a tender moment between newlyweds with a pink rose boutonniere.
A bride in white dress holds a floral bouquet while standing near water at sunset.
A wedding couple shares an intimate moment in a sun-dappled forest setting with greenery and soft lighting.
A romantic wedding photo in a dark moody forest setting with soft light illuminating a couple in elegant attire.
A couple walks through a sunlit forest on their wedding day with a bouquet of flowers and flowing white dress.
Two silhouettes stand close together on a wooden dock over a calm lake during sunset, creating a romantic reflection.
A romantic couple stands together on a wooden pier overlooking a tranquil lake surrounded by autumn trees.
A sunset wedding shoot on a wooden dock by a tranquil lake surrounded by trees in warm evening light.
A couple shares an intimate moment on a wooden dock overlooking a serene lake at dusk.
People relaxing on a wooden dock during autumn with boats and colorful trees reflected in the calm lake water.
A couple in wedding attire sits intimately on a wooden dock overlooking a serene lake at sunset.
A romantic wedding couple sits intimately together on a wooden dock at dusk.
A photographer stands on a wooden dock at sunset, taking photos with a small camera over a serene lake.
Happy couple embraces against rustic wooden wall background during their wedding day.
A couple shares a romantic moment in a rustic canoe on a serene lake surrounded by autumn trees at dusk.
A romantic couple embraces on misty asphalt in moody lighting with the person in white sitting and wearing a dress.
Romantic wedding moment showing couple holding hands with bride in white dress holding roses in moody natural lighting.

Myth #2: No Portraits Allowed!


This one’s a big misunderstanding!

Just because the focus is on real moments doesn’t mean we skip the must-haves. We have a lot of pose prompts on our sleeves! If you want family photos or some couple portraits, we’ll absolutely do that. We recommend taking some intentional photos since all your loved ones are all dressed up and in one place! Take advantage of that.


The difference? No awkward poses—just natural, easygoing shots that actually feel like you. We do love mixing in some editorial style couples portraits if you're down for it!


Tip

As photographers, we can only capture the emotion and feeling that we witness. Be IN the moment and allow those fun or emotional moments happen organically. The more connections you have with the people around you, the more beautiful your photos will be.
- The CUSTOM Collection-


Pictures from Kelsey + Garet's Intimate Wedding

Fraser River Lodge, Agassiz, ON

A groom in a black tuxedo and bowtie stands in front of a wooden wall between two windows on a rustic wooden bench.
A billiards player in formal attire with bow tie and white shirt smiles while holding a pool cue in an elegant room.
A person in a white shirt leans over a red pool table to take a shot while another person stands in the background.
Newlywed couple shares a romantic moment together in front of a cornfield on their wedding day.
Wedding couple embraces near towering corn stalks against bright blue sky.
A couple in wedding attire walks along a dirt path with mountains and cornfields in the background on an autumn day.
A couple walks along a path beside a cornfield with scenic mountain views on their wedding day.
A couple in wedding attire stand together on a mountainside with white chairs set up for an outdoor ceremony.
Outdoor mountain wedding ceremony setup with floral arrangements in a scenic mountain valley meadow.
A couple shares an intimate moment under shaded trees during their wedding photoshoot.
A bridal party celebrates with bouquets against a backdrop of dramatic mountain peaks on a sunny day.
A bride in a flowing white gown and veil stands in a grassy field with mountains in the background.
A couple in wedding attire stands in a grassy field against a dramatic mountain backdrop on a clear blue day.
A couple in wedding attire walks across a grassy meadow with dramatic mountain landscape in the background.
Wedding party poses outdoors with majestic mountain backdrop on a sunny day in the Pacific Northwest.
Newlywed couple poses in a scenic mountain meadow with dramatic peaks and a colorful bouquet.
Wedding party stands on green grass with majestic mountain peaks rising dramatically in the background.
Wedding party laughs together on green grass with majestic mountain peaks rising in the background against blue sky.
A wedding celebration group poses on a grassy field with majestic mountain peaks rising dramatically in the background.
A bride in a white corset wedding gown poses against rustic wood log cabin walls on her special day.
A white wedding dress photographed against rustic wooden log cabin walls on a wooden floor.
Three people pose outdoors for a wedding photo with majestic mountain peaks rising dramatically in the background.
A wedding party stands on a wooden deck with majestic mountains rising in the background on a clear day.
A couple in wedding attire stands together on a rustic log cabin porch with mountain views in the background.
A romantic wedding couple embraces in front of rustic wooden log cabin walls on their special day.
A couple shares a romantic moment in a rustic wooden barn doorway overlooking mountain scenery at sunset.
A couple in wedding attire stand on a wooden deck with majestic mountain peaks rising in the background.
A couple stands on a wooden deck overlooking majestic mountain peaks and scenic valley views.
A couple embraces on a sunlit lawn at sunset outside a rustic wooden lodge venue.
A couple in wedding attire dances together on a grassy field at sunset with mountains and rustic buildings in the background.
A romantic wedding moment between newlyweds sharing an intimate close-up at sunset.
A bride and groom share a joyful moment dancing together in a grassy field at sunset with mountains in the background.
Black and white romantic wedding photo on a grassy field with mountains and rustic buildings in the background.
A wedding couple stands in a grassy field against a backdrop of dramatic mountain peaks at sunset.
A couple in wedding attire walk on green grass with dramatic mountain peaks in the background at sunset.
A bride and groom share an intimate embrace during their wedding ceremony, with the bride wearing a delicate veil.
A couple on their wedding day poses outdoors with a colorful bouquet against a mountain landscape backdrop.
A couple in wedding attire walks hand in hand across a green field with majestic mountain peaks in golden sunset light.
A couple in wedding attire stands looking at a majestic mountain range on their special day.

Myth #3: The Photos Won’t Look ‘Editorial’ or Fancy


Wrong again!


Documentary photography can be both raw and stunning. It’s like your wedding was captured in a dreamy magazine spread—but instead of stiff poses, it’s filled with real love and connection. Thinking of finding inspiration for your wedding this year? Take a look at wedding trends that are still going strong this year!


Tip

Don’t be shy—share your inspo pics with your photographer! It helps us understand your vision and create a gallery you’ll love.
- The DESTINATION WEDDING Collection-


Pictures from Melissa + Calvin Wedding

destination wedding in MEXICO

Someone walks down terracotta tiled stairs in a stairwell while carrying flowers and looking down at their phone.
Person in white shirt and khaki shorts stands smiling in a tropical garden setting with stone fountain backdrop.
A wedding couple poses on a stone pathway surrounded by lush tropical palm trees and greenery at a resort.
A couple shares a moment by a stone fountain surrounded by tropical palms at their wedding.
A romantic wedding couple share a kiss by a stone fountain surrounded by tropical palm fronds at an outdoor venue.
Two people stand on a stone pathway surrounded by lush tropical palm plants in an outdoor garden setting.
A romantic couple embraces on a terrace surrounded by lush tropical palm fronds and greenery.
Lush tropical palm trees surround a rustic terrace with Southwestern architecture in a tranquil courtyard setting.
A couple walks along a tropical path with pink stucco walls and lush palm fronds framing the archway.
A wedding moment captured at a tropical venue with palm leaves and coral-colored walls in the background.
A couple embraces in a romantic garden setting surrounded by palm fronds and pink flowers.
A palm-lined pathway in a tropical garden features a paved walkway surrounded by lush green fronds.
A romantic couple shares an intimate moment in a tropical garden setting surrounded by palm fronds and terracotta walls.
A tender moment between a couple at their wedding as they embrace with closed eyes and soft expressions.
Elegant white lace wedding dress with delicate bouquet of pink roses and greenery against tropical palm backdrop.
A figure stands amid lush tropical palm trees against a pink stucco building backdrop.
Bridesmaids in pastel dresses holding floral bouquets pose together at a casual venue.
An intimate beachfront wedding ceremony with waves and palm trees in the background.
A beachfront wedding ceremony with guests seated in white chairs under a floral arch beside the turquoise ocean.
Wedding guests seated in white chairs on a sandy beach watching an outdoor ceremony.
A beachfront wedding ceremony takes place under flowing white fabric canopies surrounded by palm trees at a tropical resort.
A black and white beach wedding ceremony with a flowing white canopy and guests watching under a floral arbor.
Romantic beach wedding ceremony under driftwood arch decorated with white flowers on sandy shore with ocean view.
A beachside wedding ceremony under a driftwood arch with guests seated in white chairs facing the ocean.
Large wedding party gathered on a tropical beach with palm trees, wearing formal dresses in pastel pink and sage green tones.
Two bridal party members pose on a beach with beautiful pink and white floral bouquets against a palm tree backdrop.
Wedding party members in soft pastel dresses hold matching bouquets while standing on a tropical beach.
A couple shares an intimate moment on a beach with rolling waves and sea rocks behind them, the bride holding a pink bouquet.
A couple in wedding attire stands together on a sandy beach under a blue cloudy sky.
Two people walk hand in hand on a white sandy beach with turquoise ocean waves and cloudy sky in the background.
A pink and white rose wedding bouquet rests on the hood of a vintage white classic car with chrome grille details.
A couple stands outside a rustic stone building with climbing vines and a cobblestone path in the foreground.
A couple stands together outside an ivy-covered stone building entrance with palm trees in the tropical setting.
A romantic couple stands together at a stone building entrance with ivy covered walls and a wooden railing.

Myth #4: It’s Just for ‘Laid-Back’ Couples


Listen, you don’t have to be chill to want documentary wedding photos.


Whether your day is a grand ballroom affair or an intimate backyard gathering, documentary photography works for anyone who wants to relive their wedding exactly as it happened. Don't have a great family dynamic? Documentary photography is also great to avoid awkward family situations so that you can focus on your love and no drama!


Consider adding videography alongside documentary photography! Some photographers have that as an add on to your wedding package. While photos freeze moments in time, video captures movement, emotion, and all the little in-between moments that bring your day to life. Read to know how to choose the right wedding photographer for your style.


TIP

It’s your day, your way. You don't have to do every shot! Let your photographer know if there are specific photos or trends you’re not into. Hire a photographer you 100% click with and trust so that on your day, you know they're capturing the moments and you can just BE in the moment.
-MINI MOMENTS WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHY -


Video from Kara + Dustin's Wedding

North Bay Golf and Country CluB, north bay, on

Myth #5: My Wedding Won’t Look ‘Perfect’


Perfect is overrated.


Documentary photography is about capturing the wedding as it is. That means some photos will have movement, some will be emotional, and some might be a little messy. But guess what? Those are usually the best ones. Your best friend’s emotional speech, your partner’s teary-eyed reaction when they see you, or your nephew making a hilarious face during the ceremony.


Need help planning your timeline? Maybe Emily Summer's video: SIMPLIFIED - How to Make a Wedding Day Timeline can help! Your photographer can also help you with the timeline and ensuring all of your important moments are captured.

-THE UNRESTRICTED COLLECTION -


Photos from Bradley + Jamie Lynn's Wedding

Killarney Mountain LodgE, KILLARNEY, ON

A couple shares their first dance in a rustic log cabin wedding venue with decorative lighting and guests watching.
An elegant rustic wedding reception in a log cabin with stone fireplace and long tables decorated with floral arrangements.
Joyful guests laugh together during a rustic restaurant dinner celebration with stone walls and wine glasses.
Rustic log cabin wedding reception venue with exposed beams, chandeliers and large windows overlooking scenic views.
A wedding couple shares an intimate first dance moment inside a rustic log cabin venue with floral arrangements.
Black and white photo of couple sharing a moment on an antique couch inside a log cabin reception venue.
Elegant rustic log cabin wedding reception with floral tablescapes and chandeliers creating a romantic atmosphere.
Wedding ceremony at a rustic venue with large windows overlooking natural scenery and floral arrangements.
Wedding guests enjoying a festive celebration dinner at a rustic log cabin reception venue with floral decor.
Two people in elegant dresses share a joyful moment during a wedding celebration inside a rustic log cabin venue.
Newlyweds share their first dance in a rustic log cabin venue with elegant greenery and table decorations.
Rustic log cabin wedding reception with stone fireplace, decorative antlers, and elegant table settings in warm lighting.
Wedding guests seated at a rustic reception table with floral centerpieces and candlelight in a log cabin venue.
Two people wearing aprons prepare food at a wooden counter in a rustic cabin kitchen with large windows.
Wedding guests celebrate and raise their glasses during a reception dinner at a rustic log cabin venue with wine and floral decor.
Two women laugh together while reading papers on the porch of a rustic log cabin.
Black and white photo of a formal event with guests seated at tables during what appears to be a wedding reception.
Black and white image of people dining at a long table during what appears to be a restaurant celebration.
Emotional bride wiping tears with napkin at wedding reception beside wine glass and floral decor.
Black and white photograph of a speaker in suspenders and bow tie addressing an audience at a rustic log cabin venue.
A wedding reception dinner scene in a rustic lodge with a grand chandelier and lake view through large windows.
Reception dinner in a mountain lodge with large windows overlooking a scenic lake view and elegant table decor.
Rustic log cabin venue interior with large windows, hardwood floors, chandelier and floral arrangements for an elegant event setup.
Wedding guests dining at a rustic log cabin venue with floral centerpieces and elegant table settings.
A joyous celebration with raised wine glasses inside a rustic log cabin with tall windows and natural lighting.
A black and white photo of someone in casual attire standing next to a rustic log cabin wall with large windows.
An elderly person smiling warmly during a meal at a restaurant with large windows and natural lighting.
Black and white photo showing people laughing and enjoying themselves at an outdoor dining table.
Someone in a black suit and tie gives a speech at a wedding reception in a rustic log cabin venue with floral decor.
A couple shares a joyful moment at their wedding reception table decorated with floral arrangements and greenery.
Someone delivers a speech at an elegant wedding reception with candlelit tables and floral centerpieces at dusk.
Wedding reception guests enjoying a celebration dinner at a rustic log cabin venue with holiday decorations.
Hand holding up a glass of red wine in a toast with blurred figures in the warm-lit background.
Wedding guests share a joyful moment at the reception table decorated with floral arrangements and wine glasses.
A candid black and white photograph captures people sharing a joyful moment at a formal event with drinks on the table.
Woman in beige lace dress dances joyfully at indoor reception while holding a drink.
A bride in a strapless white gown smiles during her wedding reception while guests enjoy wine.
Two guests in white shirts celebrate at a rustic reception dinner with wine glasses and greenery table decor.
A couple during a wedding reception in an elegant log cabin venue with rustic wooden walls.
Guests in formal attire raise wine glasses in a toast at a rustic log cabin restaurant setting.
Candid moment captured during a celebration at a rustic log cabin restaurant with a dining table and festive atmosphere.
Couple cuts their elegant white wedding cake decorated with greenery on round table at rustic log cabin venue.
A couple shares a tender moment while cutting their wedding cake together at a rustic outdoor reception.
A black and white photo of guests at a wedding reception with a speech taking place in a rustic log cabin venue.

Brooke + Curtis

Mini Moments Vdeo

Why You Should Hire a Documentary Photographer?

You’ll actually enjoy your wedding.


No endless posing, no forced smiles—just you having the time of your life.

Wedding celebration with couple and guests dancing together in a dimly lit reception venue with string lights overhead.
Your photos will feel real.


Instead of cookie-cutter shots, you’ll get a gallery full of moments that actually mean something.

A lovely outdoor wedding celebration with guests watching a couple share their first dance on a sunny lawn with forest backdrop.
You get to relive the day, start to finish.



The nerves, the excitement, the quiet in-between moments—documentary photography makes sure none of it gets lost.


You can also purchase albums or prints and display it on your home.

A couple shares a romantic moment on a wooden boardwalk surrounded by lush greenery and wildflowers on a misty day.

At the end of the day, your wedding is more than just a series of pretty pictures. It’s about living in the moment.


The quiet excitement before you walk down the aisle, the way your partner’s face softens when they see you, the spontaneous bursts of laughter, and the little glances that say everything.


When you look back at your wedding photos, you won’t just see the day. You’ll feel it. The love, the energy, the once-in-a-lifetime magic of it all.


Wedding days fly by, but a documentary photographer makes sure you don’t miss a single moment.

Think this is the kind of wedding photography you want? We can make it happen for you. Inquire below!

A couple walking near a stone building with pink hydrangeas.

All love welcome!


Hi, I'm Sara, your Documentary + Traveling Photographer for the nostalgic + unrefined.


Me and my associate photographers are offering our services for destination weddings, elopements, intimate weddings worldwide. 


DESTINATION WEDDINGS 📍Italy, NY, Iceland, Mexico, BC+



If you're interested in eloping or having an intimate wedding, let's connect and get planning!


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