What is "Documentary Style" Wedding Photography?

In short, it's a style of covering weddings that emphasizes catching candid moments. Think of us as two photojournalists covering your wedding like a story for a magazine. To be successful at this, one has to be ready at all times, possess strong instincts about positioning and timing, and know how to be unobtrusive. "Documentary Style" wedding photography is very much in fashion right now (and we are happy it is!), but it has always been our preferred way of making memorable photos.

How much time should we allot for the portrait session?

More time means more potential. We can very easily create some nice portraits in 10 mins if conditions are right, but more complicated shots always take longer, particularly if artificial lighting is involved. We generally ask couples to reserve 30-45 minutes to make some stellar portraits. We can make magic happen in less if conditions are favorable however.

Do you also take posed photos of us, our bridal parties, and our families?

Of course! We refer to these times as portrait sessions, and it's up to you whether or not you even want them. Most couples like to have some posed pictures of themselves even if they are camera shy. But we make it so easy we promise you’ll have fun even if you hate this kinda thing.

Do you recommend "first looks"?

If time isn't pressing to get to the ceremony and there is a pretty and secluded location, a first look can make for very sweet and sincere photos. But if time is short, or the weather makes it prohibitive, or you want to save the surprise for the ceremony, it's not necessary! Decide whether you want that experience more than the photos it will make. There are many opportunities for photo magic, and we will certainly capture them.

Will rain ruin our photos?

Nope! Do make sure to have a rain plan for your day so everyone doesn't get wet, but rainy day light can actually make for amazing photos. We had a wedding during a tropical storm in Miami with no problems.

Can you explain Golden and Blue Hour?

Golden Hour refers to the hour leading up to sunset when the color of sunlight warms to orange (or "golden") and it shines dimmer and closer to the horizon. Blue refers to the hour just after the sun dips below the horizon, but you wouldn't call it "night time." During these windows ambient light turns soft and very flattering! Both of these times lend themselves to a dreamy, ethereal quality you sometimes see in photos, which is why we strongly suggest that couples plan either to say their vows or have their portraits taken during these times.

We're getting married far away! Do The Next Best Men travel?

Absolutely, we do! While we are based in Stuart, Florida and Asheville, North Carolina, but we'll go anywhere. This means we'll have to tack on an appropriate travel fee, and sometimes a lodging fee unless we can find a friend's couch to crash on.

What kind of motorcycles do you guys ride?

Evan rides a Triumph Bonneville. Wyatt rides an Indian Scout. Rikki rides a Zuma she loves. And we all love our Aventon e-bikes too.

What cameras do you use?

Currently Sony stuff. We have several A73III’s and A7IV’s and A9s between us. We use mirrorless bodies because they're small, inconspicuous, and completely silent. That's still a rarity in the wedding industry, and we are proud to have upgraded!