Wedding Photography Trends in Wellington for 2025

As weddings evolve and styles shift, so too does the art of capturing them. In Wellington, where the natural beauty of the landscape meets a creative and culture-rich vibe, 2025 is shaping up to be a dynamic year for wedding photography. From modern visual aesthetics to emerging technology and storytelling styles, couples are looking for more personalized and meaningful ways to preserve their big day.

Here are the top wedding photography trends to watch out for in Wellington for 2025.

1. Editorial-Inspired Wedding Portraits

Inspired by fashion magazines, editorial-style photography is gaining popularity among Wellington couples. These portraits emphasize artistic composition, intentional posing, and striking use of lighting to create sophisticated and timeless images.

Expect more couples to incorporate chic wardrobe choices and planned portrait sessions that feel like a feature in a bridal magazine.

2. Candid Storytelling with Documentary Flair

Couples are moving away from stiff, overly posed photos in favour of natural storytelling. Candid momentslike a laugh during vows or a shared glance during the receptiontell the story of the day in an authentic and emotional way.

Wellington photographers skilled in a documentary approach will continue to be in demand, especially for couples wanting their wedding captured as it truly happened.

3. Drone Photography and Aerial Views

Wellingtons dramatic coastline and elevated landscapes offer the perfect backdrop for stunning aerial shots. Drone photography is increasingly being used to capture venue exteriors, wide group shots, and cinematic couple portraits from above.

In 2025, more photographers will include drone coverage in their wedding packages for that "wow" factor.

4. Golden Hour and Twilight Sessions

Wellington's golden hour lightparticularly in areas like Mount Victoria, the waterfront, or the Botanic Gardenscontinues to be a favourite for portraits. Soft, warm light adds a magical quality to wedding photos.

Sunset and even post-sunset "blue hour" sessions are gaining traction, providing an ethereal and romantic atmosphere.

5. Film and Vintage-Style Photography

Nostalgia is making a comeback, with some Wellington photographers offering 35mm film or editing styles that mimic vintage aesthetics. The soft grain, muted tones, and imperfect charm of film photography appeal to couples who want a classic, timeless look.

Hybrid photographers (those who shoot both digital and film) are becoming more popular for this reason.

6. Focus on Small, Intimate Weddings

The popularity of elopements and micro-weddings remains strong in Wellington. These smaller gatherings allow for more intentional, emotion-filled imagery with a relaxed pace.

Photographers can focus on genuine connections and smaller details, often delivering more emotionally resonant images.

7. Black and White Image Highlight Reels

Though color photography dominates, selective black and white editing is trending. These timeless edits are being used to highlight emotional moments such as first looks, speeches, or parent dances.

Black and white collections add depth and elegance to modern wedding galleries.

8. Interactive Photo Booths with Instant Prints

Creative and fun, modern photo booths are making a comeback with updated technology. Wellington weddings in 2025 are likely to feature interactive setups with instant prints, GIF creation, or digital guestbooks.

They add an engaging element to receptions and give guests something tangible to take home.

9. Behind-the-Scenes and BTS Content

Thanks to the rise of social media, couples are requesting more behind-the-scenes content. Photographers and videographers are capturing moments like getting ready, vendor setup, or "day-of" logistics in a more relaxed, documentary style.

This content is often used for Instagram reels, wedding trailers, or short teasers shared within days of the event.

10. Personalized Flat-Lay Details

Flat-lay photography of invitation suites, jewellery, perfume, and other bridal details continues to evolve. In 2025, couples are creating personalized styling kits that reflect their theme, colour palette, or cultural background.

Wellington photographers with an eye for styling are using these curated details to add depth and personalization to wedding galleries.

Final Thoughts

Wellingtons 2025 wedding photography trends are all about intentionality, emotion, and individuality. From cinematic drone footage to nostalgic film shots and editorial portraits, couples are seeking ways to reflect their story in a way that feels modern yet timeless.

By staying on top of these trends, local photographers can continue to offer fresh, meaningful, and visually stunning wedding imagery tailored to each unique couple.