South Wales wedding photography trends in 2023

As a wedding photographer, I'm always on the lookout for the latest trends and techniques that can make your special day even more memorable. After photographing hundreds of weddings in Wales, I've noticed that couples are getting more creative and daring with their photography requests. Here are some of the top wedding photography trends for 2023.

Drone photography

In recent years, drones have become increasingly popular in the world of wedding photography. Drones are small, unmanned aircraft that are controlled by remote, and they can capture stunning aerial shots of your wedding day. Imagine having a breathtaking aerial view of your outdoor ceremony, or capturing an outdoor candle lit first dance from above. You may seem surprised by an outdoor first dance but that was exactly the craze during the pandemic with micro weddings where people were not allowed to gather indoors for first dance so gathered outside instead. I shot quite a few outdoor first dances then by candle light.

Drone photography is a unique and creative way to add an extra dimension to your wedding album, and it's becoming more and more accessible to couples. Drone technology is advancing rapidly, and I can't wait to see what kind of shots we'll be able to capture in the coming years.

Below: Drone wedding photography from 2022 weddings in South Wales :

Guest photography

More and more wedding couples in South Wales are inviting their guests to snap photos throughout the day, and then compiling those photos into a shared album. This is a great way to get candid shots from different perspectives and to capture moments that your official photographer might not have seen. There are a number of apps and services that make it easy to collect and organize these photos, so you can create a comprehensive record of your wedding day.

Elevated Photo Sets

Gone are the days of traditional wedding poses in front of a plain backdrop. Couples are now opting for more creative and elevated photo sets that showcase their unique personalities and style. I love working with couples to create a custom photo set that reflects their wedding theme or personal interests. Whether it's a boho-inspired lounge area or a cozy picnic blanket in a field, an elevated photo set can really take your wedding photos to the next level.

Dramatic Lighting

Dramatic Lighting is one of the most important elements in wedding photography, and it can make a huge difference in the final product. In 2023, we're seeing couples embrace more dramatic lighting for their photos. This might mean using candles or string lights to create a warm, cozy ambiance, or using colored lights to create a more dynamic and visually striking effect. Whatever your lighting preference, make sure to communicate it with your photographer so they can create the perfect atmosphere for your photos.

Film Photography

While digital photography has largely taken over the industry, there's been a recent resurgence of film photography in wedding photography. Film photography has a unique and timeless quality that can add a sense of nostalgia and romance to your photos. Film photographers work with different types of film to create a variety of tones and textures, and the results can be truly stunning. If you're looking for a classic, timeless feel for your wedding photos, consider working with a film photographer.

Minimalist Portraits

While some couples prefer more elaborate and creative shots, others are opting for a more minimalist approach to their wedding portraits. Simple, understated shots that focus on the couple can be just as impactful as more elaborate shots, and they can also be easier and faster to set up. Minimalist portraits often feature clean lines and neutral backgrounds, and they're a great way to create a timeless and elegant look for your wedding photos.

In conclusion, the world of wedding photography is constantly evolving and changing, and 2023 is shaping up to be a year of exciting new trends and techniques. Whether you're interested in drone photography, elevated photo sets, or dramatic lighting or hybrid photography there's something for every couple. As a wedding photographer, my goal is to work with you to create a unique and unforgettable record of your wedding day that you'll cherish for years to come.