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The Art of Black and White Wedding Photography – My Signature Style

Writer's picture: Steve JonesSteve Jones

Alternative-wedding-photographer

Black and white photography has always held a special place in my heart, and over the years, it has become a signature style in my work that couples constantly ask about and admire. These images have become some of my most popular and talked-about shots, often sparking conversations with couples who love the timeless, emotional depth they bring to their wedding day.

As much as I enjoy working in colour, there’s something uniquely powerful about black and white photography. Stripping away colour allows me to focus on the raw emotions and intimate moments that define a wedding day. It draws attention to the subtle details—the depth of a fleeting glance, the joy of a shared laugh, or the emotion in a heartfelt speech. These moments are amplified in monochrome, creating a timeless and evocative story.

One of my very first weddings was shot entirely in black and white at the couple’s request, which reinforced just how special these images can be. It confirmed for me that black and white photography isn’t just a style choice, but a way to highlight the emotional essence of a wedding in a completely unique way.


My Love For Black and White Film Photography


My love for black and white photography didn’t start with weddings. In fact, it began many years ago when I was shooting live music events and portraits on 35mm film.

There was something about black and white photography that always resonated with me—it had an energy, a mood, and a way of making you feel like you were right there in the moment.

My go-to film back then was Kodak Tri-X, known for its bold contrast and beautiful grain. These images weren’t just pictures; they were full of energy and emotion. There was a rawness to the grain, and the contrast of dark shadows against bright highlights gave each photo a sense of immediacy, like you could almost hear the music or feel the energy of the moment. That aesthetic has carried through into my digital work today—every black and white photo I create is inspired by those film days, with my own personal tweaks to keep it unique to my style.

bride and father dance at botanical garden wedding



The Storytelling Power of Black and White Wedding Photography


Black and white photography is more than just a stylistic choice—it’s a way of storytelling that is raw, honest, and timeless. I often find that black and white photos have an extraordinary way of cutting through the noise. It strips everything back to the core of a moment, allowing the viewer to connect with the emotion without distraction.

On a wedding day, there are countless fleeting moments that tell the story of the day—the nervous excitement before the ceremony, the proud smile of a parent, the overwhelming joy during the first dance. While colour photography is perfect for capturing the vibrancy of the day, B&W photography has the unique ability to distill these moments into something even more powerful. The intensity of light and shadow brings out a depth and emotional weight that’s perfect for telling a wedding story that will never age.


black and white wedding photographer

The Creative Process Behind Black and White Wedding Photos


When I approach black and white wedding photography, it’s more than just a stylistic choice—it’s a creative decision that enhances the emotional storytelling of a wedding day. I focus on moments that are raw and unposed. A glance exchanged during the vows, the tears of a parent during the ceremony, the joy of the couple dancing together—these are the moments that make the best black and white photos. The beauty of B&W photography lies in its ability to highlight the depth of emotions without the distraction of colour.

Every image is crafted to evoke emotion. For me, it’s about more than just taking a picture; it’s about capturing a feeling, a memory that will last forever. Black and white photography allows me to freeze a moment in time, stripping away everything unnecessary to focus on what truly matters—the love, the emotion, and the story.



Why Choose Black and White for Your Wedding?


So, why should you consider incorporating black and white photography into your wedding album? The answer lies in the timeless quality of these images. Black and white wedding photos are inherently classic—they never go out of style. Whether you’re looking for a vintage aesthetic or simply want to focus on the emotional depth of your wedding day, black and white photos bring a sense of sophistication and grace to your wedding album.

Additionally, B&W photos are incredibly versatile. They look equally stunning in both modern and traditional wedding albums, and they complement any wedding style. From intimate moments during the ceremony to candid laughter on the dance floor, black and white wedding photography can elevate every aspect of your wedding day.



Why I Love Delivering Black and White Images to My Couples


For me, delivering black and white photos alongside colour ones is essential. They provide a different perspective on the day, giving couples a collection of images that feel both timeless and deeply emotional. Some moments naturally lend themselves to monochrome—the play of light and shadow, the movement of a veil in the wind, a quiet moment between the couple.

Every wedding I photograph includes a mix of both, ensuring that couples have a beautifully balanced gallery that tells their story in the most compelling way possible. The beauty of black and white photography is that it doesn’t just capture an image—it captures a feeling, a moment suspended in time that remains just as powerful years later.


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