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When you think of wedding photos, you probably picture the classic ones: you and your partner in front of a chateau, everyone lined up for family portraits.

But the photos you’ll actually look at 20 years from now? They’re the in-between moments. The laughter over dinner. The glass of wine in hand. The conversation you didn’t know was happening.

As a wedding planner in France, I help couples build a photo plan that captures all of it. Because 1 photographer style can’t do everything.

Here are the 3 types of wedding photos I recommend for every couple getting married in France:

1. Posed + Editorial Photos
What it is: The beautiful, timeless shots. You and your partner in front of that chateau at golden hour. Bridal party in the gardens. Family formals.

Why you need it: These are your wall prints. Your album cover. The photos you send to family who couldn’t come.

Best for: Couples who want that “Vogue meets French wedding” look. Perfect in Provence, Paris, or any chateau.

Planner tip: Build 45 min into your timeline just for couple portraits. The light in France at 7pm in summer is magic.

2. Documentary / Candid Photos
What it is: Your pro photographer capturing real moments as they happen. No posing. Just your reactions.

Why you need it: This is where the emotion lives. Your dad tearing up during speeches. Your friends dancing. You laughing with your glass of champagne.

Best for: Couples who want their day to feel like a story, not a photoshoot.

Planner tip: Tell your photographer “I want 80% documentary”. Then get out of the way and actually enjoy dinner.

3. Guest-Captured + Disposable Camera Photos
What it is: Exactly like this photo. The blurry, grainy, real moments your guests take on their phones, digitals, or disposable cameras.

Why you need it: Your photographer can’t be in 3 places at once. Guest photos capture the perspective from the table. The dance floor. The after-party. They feel fun, nostalgic, and totally you.

Best for: Couples who want zero pressure and maximum memories. So popular in France right now.

How to do it:
– Leave a disposable camera on each table
– Make a wedding hashtag for phone photos
– Set up a “phone basket” so guests are present, not scrolling

Planner tip: Collect them the next day and make a shared album for your guests. These sweet memories will make and equally thoughtful thank you gift.

So Which One Should You Pick?
You don’t have to choose. The best wedding galleries in France have all 3.

Think of it like this:
– Posed = The fairytale
– Documentary = The story
– Guest-captured = The memories

If budget is tight, prioritize documentary + guest-captured. You’ll get more emotion for less money than 8 hours of posed shots. How De France Events Helps I build your timeline so your photographer gets all 3. Golden hour for posed. Dinner for documentary. And I’ll even source vintage disposables for your tables.

We’ll also talk to your photographer about what style you want most, so nothing gets missed.

Want help planning a photo plan that feels like YOU? Inquire here.

Final Thought Don’t just collect pretty photos. Collect photos that make you feel something.

The one of you laughing with wine at the table will mean more than any perfect portrait.