what is an editorial wedding portrait
An editorial wedding portrait borrows its aesthetic from fashion and magazine photography. It’s characterised by intentional composition, considered use of light, and a refined sense of place. At Super 35, we approach portraiture the same way we approach the rest of your day—observationally, with minimal direction and maximum attention to what’s already there.
the definition
Editorial wedding portraits look like they could appear in the pages of a quality publication. They’re composed with care, often using architecture, negative space, or natural light to create images that feel deliberate rather than posed.
The term comes from editorial fashion photography, where the focus is on mood, environment, and visual storytelling rather than product placement. In a wedding context, this means portraits that prioritise setting and atmosphere over formulaic posing.
These images typically feature clean lines, strong use of available light, and an awareness of how the subject relates to their surroundings. The couple exists within the frame as part of a larger visual composition.
why couples choose this style
Couples who value design and aesthetics tend to gravitate toward editorial portraiture. If you’ve ever looked at wedding content in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, or The Lane, you’ve seen this approach in action.
It appeals to those who want their wedding photography to feel refined without being stiff. There’s an inherent sophistication to images that use space and light thoughtfully, without relying on forced smiles or traditional groupings.
Many of our couples at Super 35 select their venue based on architecture and light. An editorial approach rewards that investment by making the most of those considered design choices.
what to look for in a photographer
Review portfolios for evidence of compositional awareness. Look for use of leading lines, symmetry, negative space, and layering. Notice whether the photographer seems to understand how to work with available light rather than overpowering it.
Pay attention to variety in framing and perspective. A photographer working in an editorial style should demonstrate comfort shooting wide environmental portraits as well as closer, more intimate compositions.
Consider how much direction you’re comfortable with. Some editorial photographers heavily art-direct their couples, while others—like us—prefer to position you in good light and let genuine interaction create the moment.
the super 35 approach
We shoot 35 weddings per year across Sydney with two photographers, both working observationally throughout your day. Our portrait approach extends this same philosophy—we’re not going to pose you into unnatural positions or ask you to walk toward us repeatedly.
Instead, we look for pockets of good light and interesting architecture at your venue. We’ll position you there, give you minimal direction, and work quickly while you interact naturally. The resulting images have an editorial quality because we’re paying attention to composition and environment, not because we’re staging scenes.
This method suits couples who feel awkward being photographed. You’re not performing for the camera—you’re simply standing in beautiful light while we handle the visual decisions. It’s efficient, comfortable, and produces images that feel considered without being contrived.
frequently asked questions
How is editorial different from documentary wedding photography?
Documentary photography prioritises capturing moments as they unfold, with minimal intervention. Editorial portraiture involves more intentional positioning and awareness of composition, though it doesn’t require traditional posing. At Super 35, we use an editorial eye throughout the day, even during observational coverage—it’s about how you see and frame, not just when you intervene.
Does editorial style require more time for portraits?
Not necessarily. Because we’re working with available light and existing architecture, we don’t need elaborate setups or multiple outfit changes. We typically spend 15-20 minutes on portraits, moving efficiently through 3-4 locations at your venue. The editorial quality comes from compositional choices made in the moment, not from lengthy sessions.
What should we wear for editorial-style portraits?
Clean, well-fitted clothing without distracting patterns works best. The editorial aesthetic favours simplicity and elegance over embellishment. Your wedding attire almost certainly already fits this brief—editorial portraiture tends to let design and tailoring speak for themselves.
Which Sydney venues work well for editorial portraits?
Venues with strong architectural elements and good natural light are ideal. Spaces like Curzon Hall, Gunners Barracks, and Pier One offer the kind of clean lines and interesting geometry that suit an editorial approach. Even simpler venues work well if they have uncluttered backgrounds and large windows.
