Classic vs. Candid: Finding Your Wedding Photography Style
- Erica Lewis
- Sep 8
- 2 min read
By Emerald Stone Photography | Pennsylvania Wedding & Event Photographers
When it comes to choosing your wedding photographer, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting a photography style that feels true to you. Some couples love the timeless, polished look of classic wedding photography, while others prefer the natural, emotion-driven approach of candid photography.
At Emerald Stone Photography, we specialize in blending both styles to create wedding galleries that are elegant, authentic, and completely you. Let’s break down the differences between classic and candid photography styles—and help you decide which resonates most with your love story.
What Is Classic Wedding Photography?
Classic wedding photography is rooted in tradition. Think posed portraits, formal family groupings, and carefully composed images that stand the test of time.
✨ What to Expect wit
h Classic Photography:
• Posed shots with Posed shots with attention to detail and symmetry
• Traditional family portraits
• Elegant images that feel timeless and polished
• Perfect for albums, framed prints, and heirlooms
Why couples love it: Classic wedding photography creates images that never go out of style. These are the photos you’ll proudly show your children and grandchildren decades from now.
What Is Candid Wedding Photography?
Candid photography focuses on real, unscripted moments. Instead of posed smiles, it captures laughter, happy tears, and the in-between moments that make your day feel authentic.
✨ What to Expect with Candid Photography:
• Natural reactions and raw emotions
• Guests mingling, laughing, and celebrating
• Unscripted moments like sneaky kisses, spontaneous hugs, or dance floor energy
• Storytelling images that feel alive and full of personality
Why couples love it: Candid photography preserves the true emotion of your day. You’ll look back and remember not just how your wedding looked—but how it felt.
Classic vs. Candid: Which Is Right for You?
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
Classic Photography Candid Photography
Posed and polished Natural and unscripted
Timeless and formal Emotional and story-driven
Great for portraits and heirlooms Great for albums and social media storytelling
Focuses on tradition Focuses on authenticity
The truth is, most couples want a blend of both styles. Classic portraits ensure you have those must-have family and couple shots, while candid images capture the energy and emotion of your celebration.
Our Approach at Emerald Stone Photography
We believe the best wedding galleries combine the elegance of classic photography with the authenticity of candid moments. We’ll guide you through portraits so you feel comfortable and confident, while also stepping back to let genuine moments unfold naturally.
The result? A balanced collection of timeless portraits and heartfelt candids that tell the complete story of your day.
Final Thoughts
When choosing your wedding photography style, think about how you want your wedding day to be remembered. Do you love the polished look of traditional portraits, the raw emotion of candid shots, or a blend of both?
At Emerald Stone Photography, we specialize in creating galleries that reflect your unique love story—classic, candid, and everything in between.
Ready to Capture Your Story?
We’re wedding and event photographers based in Pennsylvania, serving PA, NJ, and beyond. Whether you lean toward classic, candid, or a mix of both, we’d love to bring your vision to life.
📩 Contact us today (https://www.emeraldstonephotography.com/contact) to learn more about our wedding photography experience
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