CATEGORIES
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All about fine art photography and how to know if it’s right for you
“Fine art photography” is a phrase thrown around a lot in the wedding world. Photographers, wedding blogs, florists, calligraphers, and more all describe themselves as “fine art” vendors.
But what exactly does “fine art” mean?
Today, I’d like to share what fine art photography is and how you can know if it’s the right style for you.
But before we begin, here’s one thing to remember: Fine art may mean slightly different things to each photographer. And that’s the beauty of it—it’s art, and, therefore, its definition depends on the heart and values of the artist.
So now that we’ve established that, let’s get started…
01. It is timeless and enduring
With fine art photography, your photos will have a timeless feel and a style that will endure for generations. There are no harsh edits, skin tones are natural and soft, and the images are intended to age beautifully just as your love and marriage will.
02. It is delicate and elegant
The style of fine art photography is one of soft focus, elegance, and luxury. The palette is often more pastel, inspiring emotions of peace, calm, and serenity. The style blends well with gardens, classic architecture, and romantic design.
03. It utilizes light to create softness
Many fine art photographers also consider themselves to be natural light photographers—meaning they use natural not artificial light whenever possible. Therefore, the fine art style has a very natural feel without harsh shadows or high contrasts. When fine art photographers do utilize flash (at receptions or for night time shots) they do so in a way that is still soft and feels natural.
04. It is a graceful and truthful documentation of reality
“Graceful” is one of the words I use to describe my personal artistic aesthetic. Fine art photography celebrates the graceful things in life—movement, joy, natural beauty, the glow of light, or a quiet moment. And it documents reality truthfully, often veering away from “posed” looks and depicting life as it happens and bringing out its beauty.
05. It is art. It’s intended to be preserved and it gains value with time.
All-in-all, it is just as it’s name says: It’s art. And those who create it are artists. Of course all photography is art, but often fine art photographers place a greater emphasis on creating masterpieces that make you feel something. That move your soul. That seem to be music without words.
That’s what fine art photography means to me. And it’s a style I strive to refine each and every time I pick up my camera.
