Brief Descriptions of Optional Poses and Photo Styles for Your Wedding

Traditional: This is further subdivided into "classics" and "standbys". They are all posed shots that include a combination of bride-only, groom-only, bride and groom, and large group shots that may include but are not limited to the bride's maids and groomsmen. This category also includes "semi-posed" candids of the traditional ceremonial events like the garter toss, cake feeding, champagne toast, etc.

Romantic: Traditional couple and bride-only/groom-only shots are usually taken with a formal pose and soft lighting.

Black and White: Basic black and white photo which can produce interesting results when shot with specially designed "Black and White" film. Printing the photos on different textured papers can further enhance effects. Specify if you want glossy or matte or a combination of both.

Color: Standard choice for wedding photography. Specify if you want glossy or matte or a combination of both.

Portraiture: Formal portraits generally taken against a formal backdrop or in a studio with adjusted lighting. Note: The same "formal" effect can be achieved in outdoor lighting by a competent photographer.

Candid: A good addition to your photo album, candid photos are casual photos that capture "the moment", meaning most people's attention isn't directed at the camera but at the ceremony. A good photographer will take candid photos that enhance one's features and looks. An inexperienced candid photographer however, might take pictures that may display unbecoming results. Also, more candid photos should be taken so that you can sort through the pile and pick your favorites since a candid photos sometimes capture undesirable expressions, poses, or backdrops (i.e. a stained table cloth, etc).

Infrared: Shot with black and white film that reacts to heat. These photos develop a vivid luminescence to their finished look which makes the picture seem almost three-dimensional. It is a rather "artsy" or stylized look.

Photojournalism: Similar to candid shots, the photographer follows the bride and groom throughout the daily events, snapping poses whenever they deem necessary to visually "report" the events of the ceremony.