Why Choosing a Documentary-Style Wedding Photographer Matters
Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—chapters in life. If you’re engaged, you’re probably deep in the whirlwind of venue tours, Pinterest boards, dress fittings, and curating every little detail to reflect your unique love story. But amidst all of that planning, one of the most lasting decisions you’ll make is choosing your wedding photographer.
If you want to preserve your wedding day in a way that feels honest, emotional, and deeply personal—capturing the real, raw moments and everything in between—then a documentary-style photographer might be exactly what you're looking for.
As a wedding photographer based in Virginia Beach, I specialize in capturing weddings just like yours. I work with couples who want to relive their day through images that feel like memories—images filled with feeling, movement, and story. And while I use digital photography, my favorite medium by far is film. I also offer Polaroids and vintage Super 8 video for couples who want tangible, timeless heirlooms that are anything but ordinary.
What Is Documentary-Style Wedding Photography?
Documentary-style wedding photography is more than just a trend—it’s a philosophy. It’s about stepping away from stiff poses and curated moments and instead telling the true story of your wedding day, as it unfolds naturally.
My approach is to act as a quiet observer, gently guiding when needed, but mostly allowing the day to breathe. I capture your parents wiping away tears, your partner’s reaction as you walk down the aisle, the wind playing with your veil, and the laughter during toasts you’ll want to relive forever. It’s not about perfect symmetry or forced smiles—it’s about truth, connection, and emotion.
Why Couples Love This Style
🖤 Authenticity Over Perfection
If you’re more interested in how your wedding felt than how it looked for social media, documentary-style photography is for you. You don’t have to worry about posing perfectly. Instead, I’ll capture what’s real—your quiet glances, joyful tears, goofy laughter, and moments of stillness.
🎞 A True Reflection of Your Day
I don’t just focus on the “Pinterest” moments—your first kiss or the cake cutting. I capture the small things too: your hands intertwined during the ceremony, the moment your grandma hugs you extra tight, or the way your friends look at you when you aren’t watching. These are the moments that truly define your day.
📷 Timeless, Emotional Memories
When you look back on your wedding photos five, ten, twenty years from now—I want you to feel it all over again. That’s what documentary-style photography offers. It freezes the feelings, not just the visuals.
Why It’s So Important to Choose a Photographer Who Gets You
Choosing a photographer isn’t just about hiring someone with a nice camera. It’s about finding someone who sees you and understands your vision. I take the time to get to know my couples—not just what their timeline looks like, but what they value most.
Do you want Polaroids to hold in your hands by the end of the night? Are you dreaming of Super 8 footage that feels like a home movie from a more romantic time? Or do you simply want to feel comfortable and unposed in front of the camera? I’m here to make that happen.
How I Document Your Wedding Day
At Blake Photo & Film Co., I offer a photography experience rooted in connection, emotion, and storytelling. I work with couples getting married in Virginia Beach, across the East Coast, and around the world. Whether you're exchanging vows under twinkle lights, dancing barefoot on the beach, or getting married in a historic Italian villa—my approach remains the same: honest, heartfelt, and deeply intentional.
My style is a blend of documentary and editorial. I use both digital and 35mm film, and offer Polaroid snapshots and Super 8 wedding films as keepsakes you can see, feel, and pass down for generations.
What My Couples Say
“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. From start to finish, Brittany was incredible. She captured every moment so beautifully, and the photos truly told the story of our day.”
— Tyler & Rachel
“The photos Brittany took are simply breathtaking. She made us feel comfortable and allowed us to be ourselves, which resulted in the most beautiful photos that truly reflect who we are.”
— Emily & James
Ready to Tell Your Story?
If you're looking for a wedding photographer who will show up with empathy, artistry, and a love for the in-between moments—I'm your person. Whether you're getting married by the ocean, under the stars, or in a sunlit garden, I’d be honored to help you document the day exactly as it felt.
Reach out to me here to learn more about my packages, availability, and how I can help bring your love story to life—with honesty, beauty, and a little bit of film magic.
Let’s create something timeless, together.
