
Planning your big day and wondering what photography & videography style is required for your wedding? You’re not alone!
With so many terms floating around candid, traditional, drone, artistic, and more—it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But don’t worry, I’ll walk you through each one in a simple, no-fluff way so you know exactly what you need (and what you can skip) based on your budget and preferences.
1. Traditional Photography – The Must-Have Group Shots
Let’s start with the most basic and must-have option: Traditional Photography.
Think of this as your go-to for:
- Family portraits
- Group pictures with guests
- Ritual captures from start to end
While it may not be flashy, you’ll be glad you had these pictures, especially for your parents and relatives who love framed group photos. It’s structured, straightforward, and makes sure no one gets left out.
Good To Know:: ✅ Must-have for every wedding!
2. Candid Photography – For Those Natural, In-the-Moment Shots
Want those emotional, unscripted, magical shots? You’re thinking of Candid Photography.
This is where the photographer captures you laughing, wiping a tear, exchanging glances—without asking you to pose. It adds that real, emotional touch to your wedding album that traditional photography usually can’t.
💡 Pro Tip: Candid photographers also cover a lot of artistic couple shots and solo portraits (more on that next), so you’re getting more bang for your buck.
Good To Know: ✅ Highly recommended if you want to feel your wedding again through pictures.
3. Artistic Photography – Couple Portraits, Editorial Vibes
This is where things get dreamy! Artistic Photography usually focuses on:
- Couple portraits in stylized settings
- Creative compositions and lighting
- Signature bride/groom solo shots
Now, here’s the good news—most experienced candid photographers already include this in their workflow! So unless you’re hiring a big brand studio with a dedicated “artistic photographer,” you don’t have to spend extra.
Good To Know: ✅ Included in most candid packages. You don’t need to hire separately unless going ultra-luxe.
4. Traditional Videography – Budget-Friendly Option
If budget is tight, Traditional Videography is your friend.
What you get:
- Full ceremony coverage
- Edited into a 1–2 hour long video
- All rituals, all speeches—start to end
Yes, it may not be cinematic or super emotional, but if you just want a complete record of your big day, this does the job.
Good To Know: ✅ A must if you’re skipping candid video.
5. Candid Videography – Feel the Moments, Don’t Just Watch Them
Now, if you ask me what’s truly worth the splurge, it’s this: Candid Wedding Videography.
It’s more like a movie trailer of your love story—complete with:
- Storytelling elements
- Voiceovers and music
- Slow-mo shots
- Natural moments captured beautifully
Cost Difference:
- Traditional Videography: ₹10,000–₹15,000 [For Wedding & Reception]
- Candid Videography: ₹30,000–₹50,000 [depending on team & edit style]
But here’s the thing—couples rarely rewatch 2-hour traditional wedding videos, whereas a 5-minute candid highlight reel? That gets played on anniversaries, birthdays, and even Instagram!
Good To Know: ✅ Choose this instead of traditional videography if budget allows.
6. Drone Videography – Only If You’re Doing Candid Video
Drone shots add that wow factor—aerial views of your venue, dramatic couple entries, wide-angle celebrations.
But let me be honest—if you’re not doing candid videography, you don’t need drone footage. Why? Because traditional videography won’t creatively use drone shots, and they’ll just sit unused.
Good To Know: ✅ Optional. Only go for this if you’re already opting for candid video.
7. Pre-Wedding Photography/Videography – Memory Before the Marriage
This is not essential—but it’s a fun, romantic add-on.
- Pre-wedding Photography is often offered as compliment along with wedding package but if you choose to do it separately then it will cost between (₹15000–₹40,000) with edited soft copy.
- Pre-wedding Videography usually costs extra (₹20,000–₹50,000), and is great for love-story-style edits
It’s perfect for couples who want to get comfortable with the camera, explore creative concepts, or simply celebrate their journey.
Good To Know: ✅ Optional. Great for couples who love planning & documenting every step.
Do I Need a Pre-Wedding Shoot? What’s the Catch?
Final Thoughts – What You Really Need
Here’s a quick summary to help you choose:
Style | Essential? | Recommended For |
---|---|---|
Traditional Photography | ✅ Must-Have | Group photos & rituals |
Candid Photography | ✅ Highly Recommended | Real emotions & beautiful candids |
Artistic Photography | ✅ Included in candid | Glam couple portraits |
Traditional Videography | ✅ Budget-Friendly | Complete coverage |
Candid Videography | 💎 Worth the Upgrade | Emotional storytelling |
Drone Videography | 🎥 Only with Candid Video | Cinematic visuals |
Pre-Wedding Shoot | 💖 Optional | Capturing love before the big day |
So, what’s your wedding style?
Your photos and videos are more than just files—they’re the story of your big day. Choose the styles that match your personality, comfort level, and memories you want to cherish forever.
And if you ever feel stuck, remember it’s better to have a few beautiful moments captured well, than hours of footage you’ll never revisit.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Candid photography is the go-to style for modern weddings. It captures real emotions, laughter, and moments as they unfold—without stiff posing. When paired with traditional photography, you get the best of both storytelling and coverage.
Traditional videography captures the full ceremony in a documentary format, usually edited into a 1–2 hour video. In contrast, candid videography is cinematic it tells a story, focuses on emotion, and is often much shorter and more memorable. While candid is pricier, it’s often more cherished over time.
Drone videography is optional, but it adds stunning aerial shots to your wedding film. It works best when combined with candid videography for cinematic sequences. If you’re not opting for a candid video, drone shots may not offer the same impact.
A pre-wedding shoot often includes a short outdoor session with romantic couple portraits, usually done weeks before the big day. Some photographers offer free pre-wedding photography, while pre-wedding videography typically comes at an added cost.
A balanced team includes:
One traditional photographer for group and ritual shots
One candid photographer for storytelling moments
One videographer (traditional or candid, based on budget)
Optional: drone operator or second shooter for larger weddings
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