Choosing a wedding photographer in Michigan isn’t simply about finding someone who can take beautiful photos. At a certain level, many photographers can do that. What truly separates one photographer from another is how they see a wedding day, how they move through it, and whether they choose to observe the day or control it.

At Ray Anthony Photography, weddings are photographed with a true photojournalistic and documentary approach. The day is not directed, staged, or influenced for the sake of images. Instead, it is allowed to unfold naturally, with moments documented exactly as they happen.

If what matters to you on your wedding day is that you are able to be present and in the moment, free to be fully immersed in the celebration, then finding the right kind of photographer is essential.

1. Understand the Difference Between “Candid” and Documentary

Many photographers describe their work as candid, but candid photography alone does not define documentary storytelling. True documentary photography is intentional. It requires anticipation, patience, and awareness. It means recognizing when something meaningful is about to happen and being prepared for it before it unfolds.

2. Ask Whether the Photographer Directs the Wedding Day

Other than your required portraits, Ray doesn’t provide any direction during the wedding day so that he isn’t influencing your unique story. He is there to photograph your day exactly as it unfolds. This allows emotions to remain genuine and moments to unfold without interference.

3. Look for Anticipation, Not Reaction

A photographer who simply photographs what is happening in front of them is reacting. A photojournalist anticipates. Strong documentary images come from reading people, understanding rhythm, and positioning intentionally for light, angle, and composition before the moment happens.

4. Pay Attention to How the Photographer Blends Into the Day

Ray approaches weddings almost like a guest, quietly blending into the environment. When people forget about the camera, they behave naturally. This is when the most meaningful and honest moments emerge.

5. Understand How Portraits Are Approached

Documentary photography does not mean portraits are ignored. Portraits are discussed well in advance of the wedding and photographed during a specific window of time, usually right after the ceremony. Once portraits are complete, the focus returns fully to documenting the day as it unfolds.

6. Choose a Photographer Who Trusts Real Life

Rather than manufacturing moments or managing emotions, Ray trusts real life to happen. This restraint allows moments to develop naturally and be photographed with depth, context, and honesty.

7. Prioritize Being Present on Your Wedding Day

One thing Ray tells every couple is that his goal is to free them from worrying about what the photographer wants. When couples are not performing for the camera, they are able to truly celebrate, connect, and be present with each other and their guests.

8. Review Full Wedding Stories

Documentary photography reveals itself over time. Full wedding galleries show whether a photographer can maintain awareness, consistency, and storytelling throughout an entire wedding day, not just during select moments.

9. Read Reviews That Describe the Experience

Look for reviews that mention how the photographer blended in, moved quietly, and allowed the day to unfold naturally. These experiences matter far more than buzzwords or trends.

10. Choose a Photographer Who Is Not for Everyone

The right wedding photographer isn’t someone who tries to appeal to everyone. If you want a wedding day that feels uninterrupted, authentic, and fully lived in the moment, Ray Anthony Photography offers a documentary approach designed for couples who value real moments over orchestration.