April 21, 2025
Hey there, wedding dreamers! 📸Â
As someone who's helped countless couples create their perfect day over the past 20+ years here in the River Valley, I can tell you that wedding photography has come a LONG way from the days of stiff poses and endless formal lineups. In 2025, we're seeing some absolutely incredible trends that make my wedding planner heart skip a beat - and I can't wait to share them with you! These aren't just trends; they're ways to tell your unique love story through images that will make you smile, laugh, and maybe shed a happy tear or two for decades to come.
1. Story-Driven Documentary Photography
Couples are moving away from stiff, posed images and leaning into storytelling photography that captures raw, candid emotions. It's about freezing the laughter between friends, the joyful tears of parents, and those stolen glances that tell a deeper love story. Take Emma and Alex's church wedding - the architecture itself became part of their love story, with each archway and stained glass window creating natural frames for those precious candid moments.
Why It's Trending: Modern couples want to look back and feel the day—not just see it. Photographers with a documentary style blend into the background, catching moments organically as they unfold.
Pro Tip: Hire a photographer whose portfolio shows a consistent style of capturing genuine, unposed moments. Discuss your most important moments in advance to ensure they're captured authentically.
2. Editorial & Fashion-Inspired Portraits
Think bold, artistic, and sophisticated. Editorial-inspired photography is about creating high-fashion, magazine-worthy images. These photos are carefully composed with attention to lighting, angles, and elegant poses.
Why It's Trending: Couples want portraits that feel glamorous and timeless—photos that could be framed in an art gallery as much as a living room.
Pro Tip: Here's a local secret - the Park at West End in Fort Smith is an absolute gem for editorial shots! That vintage Ferris wheel? Pure magic in the background of your photos. Trust me, it's become one of our area's most iconic wedding photo locations! 🎡
3. Film Photography for a Vintage Touch
Film is back in a big way. There's something magical about the grainy texture and romantic tones of film photos that digital simply can't replicate. It offers a softness and depth that makes images feel nostalgic and timeless.
Why It's Trending: Film adds a luxurious, vintage feel to wedding albums and appeals to couples who want a touch of old-world romance.
Pro Tip: Opt for a photographer who offers hybrid photography (both digital and film) to capture a range of styles. Film photography can be more expensive, but it's an investment in truly unique memories.
4. Cinematic Drone Shots
Drone photography is no longer just a novelty; it's become a must for capturing epic, panoramic shots of venues and outdoor ceremonies. It adds a cinematic edge to your wedding album, offering a perspective that ground-level photos simply can't match.
Why It's Trending: Couples are choosing venues for their breathtaking landscapes and want those vistas captured dramatically.
Pro Tip: Ensure your photographer is experienced with drones and check your venue's policies. Drones can be tricky indoors, so they're best suited for outdoor locations.
5. Moody Black and White Photography
Black and white photos never go out of style. In 2025, they're making a strong comeback for their ability to strip away distractions and focus on emotion, light, and shadow.
Why It's Trending: These photos feel raw, real, and timeless—perfect for capturing deep emotional moments like vows, first looks, or dances.
Pro Tip: Use black and white for intimate moments or emotional reactions to add depth and drama to your gallery.
6. Motion Blur for an Artistic Feel
Rather than sharp, posed portraits, motion blur creates a dreamy, spontaneous feel. It reflects the real energy of the day, making photos feel alive and in-the-moment.
Why It's Trending: It adds a layer of artistry and uniqueness, breaking away from the "perfect" posed photo style.
Pro Tip: Plan specific moments for creative shots—like your first dance or champagne toasts—where motion blur can enhance the image's emotion and movement.
7. First-Look Moments with Family
First looks aren't just for couples anymore. Many are opting for emotional first-look moments with parents, grandparents, or siblings. These unscripted moments can be some of the most touching and memorable.
Why It's Trending: These photos create lasting memories with loved ones and celebrate the emotional connection shared with family.
Pro Tip: Want to make these moments even more special? Consider using one of our gorgeous arches as your first-look backdrop! Whether you choose our classic square arch or our stunning hexagon gold one, they create the perfect frame for these emotional reveals. And the best part? They're included in your package! ✨
8. Detailed Shots That Tell the Full Story
From the lace detail on your dress to the personalized place cards on reception tables, every wedding is filled with thoughtful details. More photographers are focusing on these small moments to create a richer, fuller story of the day.
Why It's Trending: Couples spend months planning every little detail, and they want those touches remembered.
Pro Tip: Make a list of details you definitely want captured—from jewelry to custom signage—and share it with your photographer. And speaking of details, our collection of arches can add that perfect architectural element to your detail shots!
9. Post-Wedding Adventure Sessions
Why limit photos to just the wedding day? Adventure sessions (after the wedding) are growing in popularity. Couples dress up again and take epic photos in unique locations, from mountaintops to beaches.
Why It's Trending: It allows couples to be more adventurous and relaxed without the time constraints of the wedding day.
Pro Tip: Choose a location that's meaningful or bucket-list worthy. This is a chance to get creative and have fun with your photography.
10. Guest-Centric Candid Shots
More couples want the joy and fun of their guests captured candidly. These photos highlight the love and laughter shared throughout the celebration, from spontaneous dance moves to heartfelt hugs. Just look at Frankie and Miranda's wedding - they absolutely nailed this trend by bringing in a photo booth that had their guests laughing and creating memories all night long!
Why It's Trending: It's not just about the couple; it's about everyone who came to celebrate with them. These photos show the real heart of the wedding.
Pro Tip: Consider adding interactive elements like photo booths or creative backdrops that encourage guests to let loose and create memorable moments!
Conclusion
Photography trends in 2025 are all about authenticity, emotion, and creativity. Whether you're saying "I do" in a historic church like Emma and Alex, creating editorial magic at the Park at West End, or dancing the night away with a photo booth like Frankie and Miranda, these trends will help you capture every precious moment of your celebration.
Ready to start planning your picture-perfect wedding day? Let's chat about how we can bring these photography trends to life at your celebration! đź’•
Happy planning!
