What’s the difference between Lifestyle Photography and Documentary photography?

Lifestyle Photography

Lifestyle photography has become a popular style that most photographers have gravitated towards. It has a candid and natural feel. Lifestyle is often a curated version of your real life. Coordinating outfits and moments that feel real but are often times suggested or guided. Your photographer will most likely give you prompts. For example “everyone look at each other and laugh.” Lifestyle photographers often consider lighting and location. Imagine a field or beach at sunset with a family running around and laughing. Lifestyle can also be in-home. Imagine photos of your family laying and snuggling in a big bed or on a couch. “tickle each other” and “give snuggles and kisses” might be a prompt.

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Documentary Photography

Documentary Photography is completely unposed. There are no prompts, no altering, and no guiding a moment. Documentary is simply observing real life and telling a story exactly as it is. Documentary family photographers won’t stage a moment- they simply wait for the moment to naturally unfold. Location and lighting isn’t something that they rely on. Imagine a bedtime routine where your family makes dinner in your messy and beautiful home, then maybe plays a board game, does bath time before reading books in bed. Nothing is moved or touched by the photographer. If a moment is missed- the photographer won’t ask for you to do it again. There is very little altering or edits in documentary photography. Absolutely no photoshop. There are standards and guidlines within the DFP community that you can review HERE.

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Lifestyle and Documentary are both beautiful and unique styles of photography. There is no right or wrong when deciding which style will be best for you and your family. But, if Documentary family photography seems more your style - CONTACT ME!