Why Going Outside for Nighttime Portraits is the Coolest Trend for 2024 Weddings

If you’re planning your wedding, I’ve got a trend that’s stealing the spotlight in the wedding photography scene for 2024 –  Direct Flash wedding photography!

Bride and groom at a bar with a DRUNK IN LVE neon sign hanging on the wall in the background. Brides back is to the camera and the groom is sitting on the bar.

The Rise of Nighttime Portraits

Gone are the days of solely relying on sunlight to capture the perfect wedding moments. As we step into 2024, the allure of nighttime portraits is stealing the limelight, bringing a whole new level to wedding photography. Well I say new, but its really not.  We have 2023 and the vintage reboot to thank for this little gem.

Direct Flash: A Blast from the Past with a Modern Twist

Direct flash, often associated with the glitz and glamour of paparazzi shots, is making a grand comeback in the wedding industry. While this technique might remind you of vintage Hollywood or fashion shoots, it’s now being reinvented for contemporary weddings. It has the just stepped out of a nightclub vibe about it.

Why Direct Flash wedding photography? The Paparazzi Vibe Explained

After spending years trying avoid direct flash, having a 90s resurgence in fashion has meant it has crept back in. I’ve been using flash for the last few years by bouncing off walls and ceilings, anything but directly at my couples. Sometimes on the dance floor it’s needed but generally for portraits I’ve avoided it. It feels so wrong to be back using it. But I am actually enjoying the pairing results. So why the change of heart? Direct flash creates a distinctive look that’s impossible to ignore. The strong burst of light not only adds drama to your photos but also captures the raw and genuine emotions of the moment. It does have a marmite effect of love it or hate it.  It’s the paparazzi vibe that makes you feel like a celebrity on your special day – because, let’s face it, you deserve nothing less!

The History of Direct Flash: Flashing Back to the Future

Direct flash has been a part of photography history, finding it’s roots in the golden age of Hollywood and iconic fashion shoots. It fell out of favor for a while as softer, more natural lighting became the trend. However, trends always come full circle, and direct flash is reclaiming its place in the spotlight. The bold and unapologetic style is now embraced by photographers looking to break away from the conventional.

 

Bride and groom walking looking at each other. The image is black and white and taken do showcase direct flash wedding photography.

Bride and groom photographed in a paparazzi style to show how direct flash wedding photography can work. This image is black and white and the couple are walking towards the camera while looking at each other.

Cool, Casual, and On Trend for 2024

In a world where trends evolve faster than you can say “I do,” nighttime portraits with direct flash are making waves.

So, are you ready to embrace the paparazzi vibe on your wedding day? I’m here for  it.

For more wedding musings visit my blog page here https://www.sarahcarterphotography.co.uk/blog/

Drunk in love photo taken at the Grange in Leverton https://thegrangeleverton.co.uk

Couple on stairs taken at https://www.thewilliamcecil.co.uk/weddings