5 Common Wedding Photography Myths (and What the Reality Is)
If you’re diving into wedding planning, you’ve probably come across all kinds of advice about photography. It’s no wonder wedding photography myths come up frequently, especially for couples navigating everything for the first time! As a Colorado wedding photographer and Super 8 videographer, I want to break down some of the most common misconceptions around wedding photography and set the record straight. At Ascent Photo & Video, I believe in capturing the day as it naturally unfolds, letting you be you in every frame. So here’s the real scoop on these five myths—plus some insight into my documentary-style approach for adventurous, romantic couples.
Myth #1: "Posed Shots Are a Must to Look Good in Wedding Photos"
Reality: Candid Moments Are Often the Most Beautiful
Many couples think they need to pose for every shot to look good. But here’s the thing—posed shots often miss the magic of the moment. When you’re relaxed, lost in laughter, or sharing a quiet moment together, those are the photos that end up holding the most meaning. My approach to wedding photography is documentary-style, meaning I’m capturing the authentic moments as they happen.
Poses have their place, but some of the most compelling images come from those spontaneous moments when you’re simply enjoying each other and the people you love. By focusing on candid shots, you’ll get photos that are genuine and emotional, ones that let you relive the feelings of the day long after it’s over.
Myth #2: "Editing Fixes Everything"
Reality: Great Wedding Photos Start with Great Lighting, Timing, and Composition
As a wedding photographer, I know how transformative editing can be—but it has its limits! Editing is a powerful tool, but it’s not a miracle worker. The best wedding photos start with careful planning, timing, and natural lighting.
If you’re hoping for that perfect sunset glow, we’ll work your timeline around golden hour to catch it in real time. While I do enhance images to bring out their full potential, my documentary-style approach focuses on capturing authentic, well-lit moments so the beauty shines through without heavy alterations. Real magic happens in-camera, not just in the editing suite.
A talented photographer will know how to work with the available light and position themselves around the subject accordingly. Or, if the available light isn’t what is needed to get the shot, they are able to create the light themselves using high-quality equipment like a flash.
More recently, many photographers have been making use of AI software to eliminate distractions from the background of images, provide face swaps, or alter the true nature of an image entirely. Before expecting your photographer to do any of these things, ask them if that’s part of their process! Not all of us use this software or are willing to make such lengthy edits.
Myth #3: "Wedding Photography Is Just About the Couple"
Reality: The Best Wedding Photos Capture Everyone You Love
While you two are, of course, the stars of the day, wedding photography is also about capturing the love and joy of everyone around you. Documenting the hugs, the laughter, the teary-eyed glances—it’s all part of telling the full story.
Think of the photos with your family, your best friends, and even the unexpected moments you didn’t see. I aim to capture all the relationships and connections that make your day unique. That’s the beauty of documentary-style photography; it lets every part of the day live on through images, creating a comprehensive visual memory of your wedding day.
Myth #4: "The Photographer Knows Exactly What You Want Without Guidance"
Reality: Clear Communication Helps Your Photographer Capture What Matters Most to You
One of the biggest misconceptions about wedding photography is that your photographer can read your mind. While I’ve captured countless weddings and know how to anticipate key moments, clear communication is essential. Every couple has their unique story, and I want to make sure your photos reflect what’s most important to you.
Whether it’s capturing a quiet moment with a special family member or a keepsake that has sentimental value, sharing these details with your photographer allows us to prioritize what matters most. I take the time to get to know you and what you’re envisioning, so I can create a visual story that feels personal and true to who you are.
Myth #5: "Photography Is All You Need; Video Is an Extra, Not a Necessity"
Reality: Videography Brings Your Wedding to Life in a Way Photos Can’t
While photography captures beautiful moments, videography brings a whole new dimension. Imagine watching yourselves twirl during your first dance, see faces explode with laughter during toasts, or the slow, steady speed you walked down the aisle. There’s something special about watching it all unfold in motion, especially when it's captured on Super 8 film, which brings a nostalgic, cinematic quality to your wedding memories.
As a Colorado wedding videographer specializing in Super 8, I’ve seen firsthand how couples fall in love with having a film of their day. It’s one thing to see the photos, but video lets you hear, feel, and relive those moments in a unique, personal way. When you can have both, your wedding story is truly complete.
Capturing Your Day: Real, Authentic, and Unscripted
If you’re seeking wedding photography in Colorado that feels natural, relaxed, and unforced, my documentary-style approach might be just what you’re looking for. At Ascent Photo & Video, I’m passionate about capturing the raw, real emotions and all the candid moments that make your wedding day unforgettable. I also share industry secrets to planning a successful, care-free wedding day! Don’t let these myths steer you away from a truly authentic experience.
Interested in learning more about my approach? Reach out today, and let’s chat about your vision for your big day!
This couple started spontaneously “robot dancing” on the way to read their vows. Their faces burst with authentic joy beyond anything that could be fabricated in a pose or prompt.
Pro tip: Find a wedding photographer who makes you feel comfortable being yourself.
Pro-tip: Study potential photographer’s work closely before booking. Do you like the way they edit? Do you notice things in the background that would bother you in your own photos? Are the angles flattering?
A bride’s lifelong best friend embraces her moments before she puts on her wedding dress. Capturing these moments of connection between friends and family is what makes a wedding celebration so special!
Pro tip: Make sure you see examples of photos of the guests at weddings before choosing your photographer. When in doubt, ask your wedding photographer if you can see a full gallery before booking!
Pro tip: Think about what you’re most looking forward to on your wedding day. That will help you structure your timeline and cherish the parts of the day you want to leave the most time for.
Pro tip: Combine services by hiring a photo-video team.