If you’re planning your wedding in 2026, one of the first questions you might ask is: What are 2026 wedding photography trends and Which wedding photography style is right for us? And if you’ve been researching local photographers in Herefordshire and the Cotswolds, you’ve likely come across us – Marta May Photography (The MAYS). But with so many new trends emerging, moody edits, flash-heavy party photos, and high-fashion editorial looks, you might be wondering: Where does Marta May Photography style fit in all of that?
The short answer: Marta May Photography is perfectly positioned at the sweet spot between modern trends and timeless style. Here’s why.
The Photography Styles Everyone’s Talking About (and the One You’ll Still Love in 20 Years)
“Wedding photography trends are exploding in 2026, from moody cinematic edits and high-energy flash-party shots to dreamy, light-and-airy romance.
But here’s the real question:
Which style will make your heart skip a beat not just on Instagram this year, but every time you open your wedding album for the next 20 years?
Before you fall for a fleeting trend, discover the timeless approach that turns your wedding memories into heirlooms.”
The 2025-2026 Wedding Photography Trends
Wedding photography trends have evolved significantly in the last few years. Couples today want images that feel authentic, fun, and shareable, but also timeless enough to love in 20 years. The most popular styles in 2025 are:
1. Dark & Moody
- Look: Desaturated tones, warm shadows, cinematic vibes.
- Pros: Artsy and dramatic.
- Cons: Can date quickly and isn’t always flattering for skin tones.
- Trend lifespan: Popular around 2018–2022, now fading.
2. Flashy / Party-Centric
- Look: Harsh flash, blurred motion, high-energy club-style shots.
- Pros: Perfect for couples who want to capture the wild, fun side of their reception.
- Cons: Risky for timeless albums; family photos may feel less classic.
- Current micro-trend: Popular on Instagram and TikTok.
3. Light & Airy Lifestyle
- Look: Bright, pastel tones, soft and romantic.
- Pros: Timeless and flattering.
- Cons: Can feel safe or lack the drama of bolder styles.
- Who loves it: Couples who want an effortlessly pretty, relaxed feel.
4. Hybrid Docu-Art (Timeless + Trendy)
- Look: A mix of candid, emotional storytelling and fine-art portraits.
- Pros: Balances real, unposed moments with cinematic elegance.
- Cons: Requires experience to execute well.
- Why it’s perfect for 2025: Authentic, Instagram-worthy, and truly timeless.
Where Marta May Photography Fits?
Marta May Photography embodies the new Hybrid Docu-Art style. Their approach blends:
- Documentary authenticity – relaxed, unposed, and real moments.
- Fine-art elegance – cinematic portraits, golden-hour light, and attention to composition.
- Modern delivery – 1–2 day sneak peeks (Instagram reels), and full galleries delivered within 1-2 months.
This combination means that couples get the best of both worlds: images that feel modern today and remain stunning for decades.
Why Couples Choose Marta May for Their 2026 Weddings?
- Timeless yet Modern: Her work appeals to Gen Z and Millennial couples who want authentic storytelling without falling into short-lived trends.
- Fast Delivery: Sneak peeks and reels within 1–2 days and full galleries in ~1-2 month keep the excitement alive.
- Local Venue Expertise: Having photographed hundreds of weddings at Brinsop Court, Dewsall Court, Lyde Court, and Homme House, Marta knows every lighting situation and hidden gem.
- Relaxed, Fun, and Friendly: Couples consistently describe the experience as joyful and stress-free, like having friends with cameras capturing the magic.
KEY FACTS
2026 wedding photography trends include moody edits, flash-party shots, light & airy images, and hybrid docu-art.
Trendy styles can look dramatic now but may date quickly in your wedding album.
Timeless photography focuses on real emotion and natural beauty that never goes out of style.
Marta May Photography (THE MAYS) blends candid documentary moments with cinematic fine-art portraits in their signature DOCU-ART style.
Couples love their fast delivery, relaxed experience, and expertise at iconic Herefordshire & Cotswolds venues.
Why Timeless Photography Outlasts Trends?
In the world of weddings, trends come and go faster than a confetti toss. From ultra-moody edits to TikTok-inspired poses or gimmicky filters, the temptation to follow what’s “in” can be strong. But there’s a catch: what looks trendy today can feel dated in just a year or two.
When you choose a timeless photography style, you give couples something far more valuable: images that will still look breathtaking in 10, 20, or 50 years. Their wedding album becomes a family heirloom, not a Pinterest throwback.
Your wedding day will fly by in a beautiful blur of laughter, tears, and unforgettable moments. Long after the flowers fade and the cake is gone, your photos will be the one thing you can hold onto, and that’s why choosing the right style matters so much.
Trendy wedding photography might look exciting now, but trends change fast, REALLY FAST. What’s viral on Instagram today can feel outdated in just a few years. Choosing a timeless photography style means your photos will always feel beautiful and authentic, no matter how much time passes.
Here’s why timeless photos are the best gift you can give your future selves:
- They Never Go Out of Style
- Soft, natural colours and authentic moments will still look amazing on your 10th or even 30th anniversary.
- You won’t look back and think, “What were we thinking?”
- They Capture True Emotion, Not Just a Trend
- Timeless photography focuses on real moments, the tear in your dad’s eye, the belly laughs with your friends, that quiet “just married” smile.
- These are the memories that make your heart swell every time you see them.
- They Tell Your Story, Not Instagram’s
- A trend-based style can sometimes prioritise the look of the photo over the people in it.
- Timeless photography keeps the focus where it belongs, on you, your love, and your story.
- Your Photos Will Feel Like Heirlooms
- Wedding albums are meant to be passed down and relived with family.
- Choosing timeless photography means your grandchildren will see the beauty of your day exactly as it was, not through a filter that aged badly.
Our Advice to Couples:
Enjoy wedding inspiration and trends online, but when it comes to your photos, choose a style that will feel as beautiful decades from now as it does today. Your wedding memories deserve to be forever, not fleeting.
Final Thoughts
In 2025 and 2026, Marta May Photography remains highly relevant and in demand. While fleeting trends come and go, her hybrid documentary-meets-fine-art style delivers:
- Photos that capture genuine emotion
- Portraits that feel cinematic yet natural
- Speedy delivery that modern couples love
If you’re looking for authentic, joyful, and timeless wedding photography in Herefordshire or the Cotswolds, Marta May Photography is one of the best choices you can make.
Ready to secure your date? Contact Marta May Photography today to check availability, explore packages, and start creating the wedding gallery you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
