What are the changes in Photography Styles in North Indian vs South Indian Weddings ?
(An Indian Wedding Photography Guide)
Indian weddings are known across the world for their color, culture, and richness in traditions. But did you know that there is a direct distinct variation in style between North Indian wedding photography and South Indian ones ?
From the energetic Punjabi baraat to the elegance of a Kerala temple wedding, the extensive variation itself is what makes Indian wedding photography so different. Let us try to break down how these two traditions differ, what photographers focus on, and how you can choose the right style for your biggest day.
What makes Indian Wedding Photography So Unique?
Indian weddings are not just about the ceremony and rituals— also a collective jubilation of moments, emotions, and artistic storytelling. A wedding photographer in India must balance:
- Vibrant colors of bridal wear and backdrop
- Rituals rooted in culture and religion
- Candid emotions from the loved ones and wellwishers
- Modern trends like cinematic storytelling
- Advanced equipments to capture in depth
Whether the wedding is from North, East, West or South of India, the essence remains the same- Capturing timeless memories.
What Defines North Indian Wedding Photography?
Whenever we hear about North Indian weddings, the images of dhols, lehengas and people dancing pops up in our mind. Loud and Sharp, the north Indian weddings are grand celebrations of the moment while cherishing the true essence of traditions and rituals. Unlike the south side, their wedding includes cultural programs like Mehendi, Sangeet and also a musical procession called Baraat to facilitate their eventful day. The candid of these joyous moments bring so much charm to the album. While the Punjabi wedding Photography requires fast paced candid photos capturing the moments with live emotions the Gujarati wedding Photography on the other hand involves a vibrant and colorful capturing of the people and the traditions.
How Artistic can South Indian Wedding Photography be?
Since the main events in a South Indian wedding commence from early morning itself, photographers mainly use the sunlight very much artistically delivering a bright, dazzling touch to the images.The South Indian temples are famous for their monumental aesthetics. Mostly events take place in temples, churches etc… where photographers mainly consider the natural light and the architecture of the building before deciding the wedding photography/videography pattern.Mostly in Hindu traditional wedding photography, a ritual based storytelling method is used that can engage both artistically and informatively.
Major comparison of North Indian vs South Indian Wedding Photography Styles
- In terms of the decor, the North Indian weddings are more Lavished and require the photography more festively than compared to South Indian weddings which are more silent and ask for a subtle capturing of the floral decorations, temple based ceremonies etc..
- Timing becomes a major factor in considering the lighting of the photography. Since south Indian weddings take place mostly during the day time, natural lighting is utilized for capturing lionshare of the event which makes it brighter compared to North Indian weddings which take place mostly in night time which allows photographers to experiment with vibrant lighting setups, fairy lights, and even fireworks.
- The attire of the bride and groom adds another layer of diversity. North Indian brides typically wear heavily embroidered lehengas, while grooms dress in embellished sherwanis, both of which stand out in candid, vibrant captures. On the other hand, South Indian brides look resplendent in silk sarees and layers of gold jewelry, while grooms wear traditional dhotis, which are best highlighted in elegant, ritual-focused photography.
- When it comes to photography styles, North Indian weddings emphasize candid, vibrant, and high-energy moments. The dancing, music, and laughter from Mehendi, Sangeet, and Baraat make for spontaneous shots full of life. Meanwhile, South Indian weddings are deeply ritual-focused. Photographers often create storytelling albums that highlight sacred traditions associated with the wedding.
Final Thoughts
Indian weddings combine colors, traditions, and emotion. While North Indian wedding photography thrives on grandeur and zeal, South Indian wedding photography places more emphasis on culture and tradition.
The best photographers achieve a balance between the two, precisely recording each ceremony while highlighting spontaneous moments of joy and love. Whether it’s a Gujarati garba, a Punjabi baraat, or a Kerala temple wedding, the right photographer will ensure that your memories are lovingly remembered.