Documentary-Style Wedding Photography by Natalie Watson

At Wezoree, we love shining a spotlight on exceptional wedding photographers who bring something truly special to their craft. Natalie Watson, a photographer with 24 years of experience, has mastered the art of documentary-style wedding photography. From her beginnings as a photojournalist to becoming one of the most sought-after wedding photographers, Natalie has captured the genuine emotions and unforgettable moments of couples worldwide.

The Beginnings of a Photographer

Natalie Watson’s journey into photography started at an early age, with a passion for storytelling through images. “I began as a young photojournalist,” she recalls. “Soon people began asking me to photograph their weddings.” That pivotal moment led Natalie to pivot her career, and since 2007, she’s been fully immersed in the wedding photography world. 

With a master’s degree in photography from Savannah College of Art & Design (now known as SCAD), Natalie honed her skills both technically and artistically, equipping herself with the knowledge and expertise needed to capture weddings with a unique, authentic touch.

A Documentary Style That Stands the Test of Time

Natalie’s photography style is deeply rooted in her journalistic background. She describes her approach as a documentary, capturing weddings in a way that tells a story as naturally and unobtrusively as possible.  She wants the images to feel as real and timeless as the day itself.

For Natalie, it's about being present while allowing the event to unfold naturally. The goal is to document the day as it is, without too much interference.

The Tools of the Trade: A Love for Film

While many photographers rely solely on digital, Natalie’s heart belongs to film photography. “I prefer film, and I love medium-format cameras,” she shares. There's a timeless quality that film lends to her images, offering texture and depth that digital sometimes can't replicate. However, she also shoots digitally, particularly in low-light conditions or when she needs to capture quick moments on the go.

Post-processing, for Natalie, is kept minimal. “Basic Lightroom,” she says simply. She believes in preserving the authenticity of each shot, ensuring that the final images reflect the true essence of the day without heavy editing.

Building Trust with Clients

Natalie’s success as a wedding photographer is grounded in her ability to form meaningful connections with her clients. “I like to know as much as I can about the couple before the wedding,” she explains. By understanding family dynamics and the couple’s personalities, she can better anticipate and capture genuine moments. "Having a great timeline going into it" is crucial for her approach, allowing everyone—herself included—to "stay in the moment."

This preparation ensures that when the big day arrives, she and her team can work seamlessly behind the scenes. The more she knows, the better she can capture the wedding in a way that feels true to the couple.

Destination Weddings and a Love for Italy

As a seasoned photographer, Natalie has worked on weddings both locally and internationally, with destination weddings being a particular passion of hers. When asked about her favorite location, she responds without hesitation: “Always Italy.” The romantic landscapes, the light, and the rich history all contribute to the magic of Italian weddings. Italy has this timeless quality—it’s impossible not to fall in love with photographing weddings there.

Making the Most of Every Moment

For couples preparing for their big day, Natalie has one key piece of advice: “To soak in every moment and just be in the moment.” She believes that the best photos come when couples are fully present, enjoying the celebration without distractions. This sense of ease and joy shines through in Natalie’s work, where every candid moment is captured with authenticity and grace.

Customizing the Experience

One of the things that sets Natalie apart is her commitment to personalizing the photography experience for each couple. Whether it’s an intimate elopement or a large celebration, Natalie offers flexibility and customization to ensure that each wedding is documented in a way that reflects the couple’s vision.

The Excitement of Every Wedding

When asked what she enjoys most about being a wedding photographer, Natalie beams: “All the excitement!” Her passion for the craft and the joy she finds in each unique celebration are key to her long-standing success in the industry. Whether it’s a quiet, intimate moment between the couple or the energy of a crowded dance floor, Natalie thrives on the emotions and unpredictability of weddings.

Natalie Watson’s work continues to inspire couples and fellow photographers alike, bringing a documentary-style authenticity to every wedding she captures. Her love for storytelling, combined with her technical expertise, ensures that each couple receives images that are as timeless as their love.