Every wedding season is full of stories—some big and obvious, some small and fleeting—but all worth capturing. As a documentary-style photographer, I get to see the day unfold naturally, and the moments I love most are often the candid ones: genuine laughs, quiet glances, and unscripted interactions that show who the couple really is. This season, a few things stood out that I want to share—little details, creative choices, and fun moments that made weddings feel unique and memorable.

The best parts of a wedding often happen when no one is looking. That shared smile before the ceremony, a guest laughing a little too hard during the toast, or the couple holding hands in a quiet moment away from the crowd—these are the images that truly capture the day. I love taking a laid-back approach where we let the day unfold naturally. By focusing on what’s happening instead of staging every pose, I can capture authentic moments that really tell the story of the day.

One of my favorite weddings this season had a cowboy-themed rehearsal dinner. It was playful, a little over-the-top, and full of energy—a fun contrast to the couple’s classic, elegant wedding day. Events like this let couples show more of their personality, and guests are often more relaxed and playful, which makes for incredible photos. Styled dinners, themed gatherings, or small creative touches like this add layers to a wedding story. They make for great memories and images that stand out.

I also loved seeing couples suggest subtle color palettes for their guests. Asking for jewel tones, greens, or soft neutrals is enough to create a cohesive look in photos without feeling strict or limiting. Coordinated outfits make group photos and candids feel polished, while still letting guests be themselves. This is a simple tip that helps your photographer capture photos that feel intentional and put-together, without adding stress to your day.

Weddings are full of details, and the little ones often make the biggest impact. From a handwritten note tucked into a bouquet, to a family heirloom worn in the ceremony, to the way light hits the venue at just the right moment—these are the things that make each wedding unique. My job is to notice and capture those details as part of the larger story. By taking a documentary approach, these small elements feel natural and meaningful without ever feeling staged.

Some of my favorite images come from completely unplanned moments: a child running across the dance floor, a couple sharing a joke mid-toast, or a spontaneous cheer from friends and family. These candid moments bring energy and life to a wedding gallery. A relaxed, flexible approach lets us capture those unexpected joys without interrupting the day. The result is a collection of images that really reflects the way the wedding felt in the moment.

Looking back, what I loved most this season wasn’t just the décor, the outfits, or the florals—it was the personality, joy, and love that showed up in every moment. Styled rehearsal dinners, thoughtful guest palettes, meaningful details, and candid interactions all added up to weddings that felt personal, authentic, and memorable. Every wedding is a story, and my goal is to capture it naturally, with a focus on the moments that matter most. A relaxed, documentary approach lets the day unfold and gives couples images that feel real, joyful, and timeless. If you’re planning your wedding this season, focus on what feels authentic to you, and don’t worry about every little detail being perfect. The moments that matter—the laughter, the glances, the connections—are the ones that will make your photos truly unforgettable.