Weddings are magical, emotional, and unforgettable. And in the midst of all the celebrations, one element stands the test of time: wedding photography. For couples planning their big day, understanding the value of photography isn’t just important—it’s essential. So, what is wedding photography, really? It’s more than beautiful images. It’s the art of capturing love, tradition, candid joy, and once-in-a-lifetime moments. In this guide, we’ll dive into the essence of wedding photography, the top bride & groom trends & tips, and how to find the best wedding photographer in Mumbai or near you.
Whether you’re newly engaged, deep into wedding planning, or helping a loved one plan their celebration, this blog will help you navigate the exciting world of wedding photography.
What Is Wedding Photography?
Wedding photography is the creative and technical process of documenting a wedding day through pictures. It tells the story of two people joining their lives together, capturing everything from the nervous anticipation before the ceremony to the joy of the reception.
The best wedding photographers do more than click a button—they observe, anticipate moments, and craft visual stories that reflect a couple’s unique bond. In 2025, couples aren’t just looking for photos; they want authenticity, emotion, and elegance wrapped into every frame.
Types of Wedding Photography
To truly understand what wedding photography encompasses, let’s explore the most popular styles:
1. Candid Wedding Photography
Candid photography captures unposed, spontaneous moments. Think laughter during makeup sessions, teary-eyed parents, and goofy groomsmen.
2. Traditional Photography
Posed portraits of the couple, family members, and ceremonies. Essential for wedding albums and family keepsakes.
3. Editorial or Fine Art Style
Fashion-inspired shots with dramatic lighting, elegant poses, and artistic backgrounds. Great for creating magazine-worthy portraits.
4. Drone & Aerial Shots
Perfect for outdoor and destination weddings. Drone photography offers breathtaking views and cinematic flair.
5. Documentary/Photojournalistic Style
This style tells the full story from start to finish—raw, emotional, and narrative-driven.
6. Pre-Wedding Photography
A trend that’s here to stay! These shoots are done weeks or months before the wedding day. Ideal for save-the-date invites, social media, or just bonding with your photographer.
7. Destination Wedding Photography
Photographers who specialize in destination weddings are skilled in adapting to new locations and lighting conditions. They also know how to shoot in fast-paced, multi-cultural environments.
Wedding Photography Packages
Wedding photography package options can vary widely based on location, coverage hours, deliverables, and the expertise of your photographer.
Here’s what a standard wedding photography package may include:
Full-day or multi-day coverage
Second shooter for larger weddings
Pre-wedding shoot
Photo albums and printed books
High-resolution digital images
Cinematic reels and teaser videos
Drone coverage
- Wedding trailer/highlight video
Tip: Ask about turnaround time, backup policies, and how many edited photos you’ll receive. Some photographers also offer customized wedding photography packages to suit different budgets.
If you’re planning a wedding in India, especially in a major city, the cost can range from INR 50,000 to over INR 5 lakhs depending on the quality and scope.
Latest Wedding Photography Trends (2025)
As the wedding industry evolves, so does photography. Here are the hottest bride & groom trends & tips to keep your photo album on-point in 2025:
1. Storytelling Through Candid Shots
Couples want real moments, not stiff poses. Authentic laughter, emotional glances, and playful chaos rule the scene.
2. Motion Blur & Movement
Intentional blur creates a dreamy, romantic feel. Perfect for dance shots or bridal lehenga twirls.
3. Direct Flash & Vintage Edits
Retro is in. Think of paparazzi-style flash photos with a 90s vibe. Grainy edits and warm tones are hot right now.
4. First Look Moments
Private first-look reveals between the bride and groom are a trend full of raw emotion and intimacy.
5. Mini Photo Shoots for Guests
Set up fun booths with props or hire a roaming photographer for candid guest moments.
6. Golden Hour Portraits
Sunset portraits are still unbeatable. That warm, golden light flatters every skin tone and adds romance.
Finding the Best Wedding Photographer
Finding the best wedding photographer in Mumbai (or anywhere else) can feel overwhelming, but it’s all about knowing what to look for:
Portfolio: Does their work resonate with your style?
Experience: Have they shot weddings similar to yours in scale or culture?
Reviews: What do past clients say?
Vibe Check: You’ll spend your whole day with them. Do you feel comfortable and understood?
Use specific Google searches like:
Best wedding photographer in Mumbai
Photographer for wedding near me
Candid photographers near me
Budget friendly photographers near me
Best videographer near me
Wedding Photographers in Mumbai & Nearby
Mumbai is a goldmine for wedding talent. From high-end luxury wedding photographers to budget-friendly professionals, the city offers something for every couple.
Whether you want dreamy beachside portraits in Alibaug, a Bollywood-glam look in Film City, or a vibrant Maharashtrian wedding in Pune—you’ll find someone who gets your vision.
Look for:
Strong portfolios with varied lighting conditions
Experience in multicultural weddings
In-house videography teams
Flexible, customized wedding photography packages
Destination Wedding Photographer: What You Should Know
Destination weddings require a special kind of photographer. They need to handle different climates, unfamiliar venues, and unpredictable lighting—all while staying on schedule.
When booking a destination wedding photographer:
Ask about travel fees & stay requirements
Ensure backup equipment is brought along
Choose someone experienced with travel logistics
Bonus tip: Some best wedding photographers in India specialize in destination weddings and offer bundled packages that include travel.
Pro Tips for Bride & Groom
These tips are especially for couples looking to get the most from their photography experience:
Book early, especially for peak seasons
Do a pre-wedding shoot to get comfortable
Share a Pinterest board or visual mood board
Communicate your must-have shots
Always plan for natural lighting
Trust your photographer’s creativity
FAQs
Q: What is the ideal budget for wedding photography in India?
A: Anywhere between INR 50,000 to INR 5,00,000+ depending on city, style, and package.
Q: How do I choose between candid and traditional photography?
A: Combine both! Candid for emotion, traditional for heritage and rituals.
Q: Should I hire a videographer too?
A: Absolutely! A highlight reel is a memory you’ll cherish for years.
Q: What is included in a wedding photography package?
A: Coverage hours, number of photographers, albums, edited photos, pre-wedding shoot, drone footage, and teaser films.
Q: When should I book my wedding photographer?
A: Ideally 6-12 months in advance.
So, what is wedding photography? It’s your story—told in smiles, tears, colors, and light. From pre-wedding shoots to emotional candids and dreamy sunset portraits, your photographer plays a huge role in shaping how you remember your big day.
Whether you’re looking for the best wedding photographer in Mumbai, a budget friendly photographer near you, or planning a grand destination wedding, investing in the right photography team ensures your memories are timeless.
So take your time, explore your options, and choose a photographer who understands not just your wedding, but your love story.
Ready to capture your dream day? Let the journey begin!