Let’s talk about photography buzzwords for a second because, wow, there are a lot of them floating around on Instagram right now. One minute you’re scrolling through reels of photographers calling themselves “editorial,” “documentary,” “fine art,” “candid,” or all of the above—and the next minute you’re trying to decipher editorial vs documentary photography. Honestly, I get it. Couples are trying to figure out what kind of photos they want from their wedding day. They want it to feel like them—real, beautiful, maybe a little cinematic, but not staged to death. The problem is, a lot of these words get thrown around without much explanation. So it’s hard to know what you’re signing up for when you hear someone say, “I shoot documentary style,” or “I’m an editorial wedding photographer.”

So, let’s clarify. As an Oklahoma wedding photographer, my approach is a blend—a quiet, intentional mix of documentary and editorial. Think: 75% fly-on-the-wall, capturing your day as it felt, and 25% stepping in when it matters—like when we’re styling your details or composing portraits that feel slightly more elevated. Because no, just because it’s documentary-style doesn’t mean it can’t also look like it belongs in a magazine.

What is Editorial Photography?

While ‘editorial’ might sound like it belongs in a fashion magazine (and sometimes it does), it’s not all stiff poses and smoldering stares. At least, not the way I approach it.

Editorial photography is all about intention. It’s the artful, styled, cinematic side of storytelling. Think of it like the polish on top of the story you’re already living. It’s just curated a little more carefully. It’s the difference between catching a moment as it happens vs. slowing down just long enough to soak it in and frame it beautifully.

In my work, editorial moments show up in a few key places. Take getting-ready photos, for example, of your dress hanging in the soft window light or your shoes resting on the edge of the tub. I love capturing those details in a way that feels like a still from a film. Flat lays are another big one—your invitations, heirloom jewelry, and florals—all carefully styled.

Then there’s the portraits. These aren’t about forcing you into a pose, but slowing down, finding good light, and letting you be, with a bit of guidance to help the moment breathe. I might tell you where to stand, but the emotion is always yours.

Let’s not forget the tablescapes, the floral installations, and the cake that deserves its own Vogue spread. Those things matter, too. Someone spent hours (and dollars) making sure your space felt magical—editorial photography makes sure you actually remember it that way.

So no, editorial doesn’t mean fake. It means intentional. The slow, cinematic layer sits gently over the top of your real moments and makes them feel even more unforgettable.

What is Documentary Photography?

At its core, documentary wedding photography is storytelling. It’s the kind of photography that honors what’s already happening. It’s real moments unfolding naturally without me constantly telling you where to put your hands or how to tilt your head (unless you ask, and then I get you). It’s candid, honest, and full of feeling.

Being photographed this way means there’s no pressure to pose or pretend. You just are—laughing with your friends, taking a moment before walking down the aisle, hugging your grandma a little longer than usual. And I’m there, quiet in the background, catching it all.

I’m in full-on fly-on-the-wall mode for about 75% of the day. I’m paying attention to the moments that might otherwise slip through the cracks. The truth is, your wedding day will move fast. You’ll blink, and it’ll be over. And when it is, you deserve more than just a highlight reel. You deserve a whole story that lets you relive it. That’s what documentary photography gives you.

Derek and Leyna’s Oklahoma Hall of Fame wedding is an excellent example of the blended photography styles.

What Editorial vs Documentary Photography Looks Like on a Wedding Day

So what does all this look like in real life? Let me break it down.

The documentary side of things shows up in the places where the emotions are raw and unfolding naturally. Getting ready with your closest people, the way your hands shake just a little before the first look, the moment your dad sees you in your dress and pretends not to cry (but does). It’s the ceremony. The hugs. The speeches. The happy tears. The quiet seconds you steal together in the hallway to breathe. It’s also the chaos—kids dancing like maniacs, spilled drinks, buttons popping off tuxes. Real life. No interference.

The editorial side kicks in when it makes sense—when the moment naturally slows and gives us room to be more intentional. For example, I’ll style your details during the getting-ready portion, making sure your heirloom ring and invitation suite are captured perfectly, or during golden hour portraits, where I’ll give gentle direction. The same goes for bridal party portraits—we’ll keep things efficient, fun, and well-composed.

The magic is in knowing when to step back and when to lean in. I won’t interrupt something real to get “the shot”—but when the time is right, I’ll elevate what’s already there. You simply need someone who knows how to see it.

Why I Blend Both Styles & Why It Matters for Your Wedding Photos

Real moments can still look like they belong in a magazine. You don’t have to choose between raw emotion and beautiful imagery—you can have both. In fact, I believe you should.

I aim to capture the whole truth of your wedding day. To me, it’s a balance. Documentary is for the emotion—the part that makes you feel something when you look back. Editorial is for the drama (in a good way). It’s not one or the other. It’s both, woven together into something artful.

This blend matters because your wedding day is a whole experience, start to finish. And if you’re going to pour your heart, energy, and money (and probably a few sleepless nights) into creating it, you deserve photos that reflect all that.

Documentary Wedding Photographer | Wild Thistle Photo

If you’re looking for a photographer who sees the in-between moments and can showcase the beauty in every detail, I’d be honored to tell your story.

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