When you imagine your wedding photos, what do you think of? Are you picturing perfectly composed and sharp portraits? Or do you imagine soft-focus, dreamy images? In recent years, blurry wedding photos have become a styled trend rather than a mistake. Jason and I were spending some time with our photographer friends at the beginning of the trend and I will never forget Jason asking Cheyne what he felt about blurry photos. Cheyne had said that he loved them when they were done right. Jason was still skeptical, although I have to say he hopped on the trend and completely nailed this photo of our graduating senior daughter.
Is the trend here to stay?
But I have to wonder if this trend of blurry photos and imperfection is something that is here to stay. I wonder if people will even like the blurry photos years from now. Let’s look into this a little further.
The Intentional Blur
To my knowledge, a blur used to be a mistake during a rushed moment with incorrect camera settings. Now, it is a deliberate decision where the photographers slow the shutter speed to capture motion. They want the movement rather than the actual precise shot; they go for the swoosh of the dress during the first dance, or the movement of the guest on the dance floor. The result gives a feeling of energy, liveliness, and emotion.
Why Some Couples Love the Blur
- It feels genuine. Posed pictures don’t always portray actual “real life”. Therefore, couples love that a little blur can make moments feel intimate and more real.
- It’s artistic. Blurry photos are a creative type of photography, often resembling something you may see in an art gallery.
- It tells a story. A crisp image does not convey movement and emotion in the same way that a blurry photo does. It almost feels like you are seeing the moment as the photo was taken.
The Case for Clarity
On the flip side, not everyone is on board with the blurry photo trend. Here’s why:
- You only get one shot. Weddings are one-time events. If most of your images are blurry, you might miss out on the clean, timeless portraits you’ll want to frame.
- Not all blur is good blur. It takes skill to capture an intentional blurred moment. There’s a difference between artful motion blur and just being out-of-focus.
- Trends come and go. What seems to be in style now goes out of style. Well lit photos tend to stand the test of time.
So, Should You Embrace the Blur?
It all comes down to your personal style and your photographer’s skill. Here are a few tips:
- Communicate clearly. If you love the blur, let your photographer know. Show examples of what you like. If you prefer clarity, be upfront about that too.
- Find a balance. Many photographers will deliver a mix—crisp family portraits and ceremony shots alongside a few artistic, motion-blurred images.
- Trust your photographer. Choose someone whose portfolio aligns with your vision. A great photographer can blend artistic blur with technical excellence.
Final Thoughts
Blurry wedding photos can be beautiful and nostalgic, whereas crisp, sharp photos are timeless. Make sure that your photographer knows what matters most to you so that your photo album is full of the images that bring your special day and all the feels right back.
Your wedding day may feel like a blur but your photos don’t have to be.
Photo Credit||
Carissa Josette Photography
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XO Shelley