There’s something undeniably magical about black-and-white wedding photos. Whether you’re drawn in by the nostalgic vibe of film wedding photography or simply love the sleek, editorial-style look, black and white images have a way of stopping time, capturing emotions in their purest form.

As a Chicago wedding photographer, I’ve seen couples debate whether these photos are truly timeless or just part of modern wedding photography trends. So, let’s dive in and explore this classic style together.

Why Black and White Wedding Photos Feel Timeless

Black and white photography is like a graceful dance between light and shadow. Because there’s no color to distract you, the focus naturally shifts to the emotion, composition, and details—think the loving tear in a father’s eye during the ceremony coverage, or the subtle way a bride’s gown drapes as she glides down the aisle.

This style has been around for decades; your parents or grandparents might have had black-and-white images in their own wedding albums. That nostalgic connection is precisely what keeps black-and-white photos forever in vogue.

Why They’re Trending in 2025

Modern wedding photography trends often circle back to vintage aesthetics, and black and white is at the top of that list. Some couples request entire editorial-style wedding photos in monochrome, giving their galleries a fashion-forward edge reminiscent of high-end magazines.

Additionally, the rise of film wedding photography—both digital emulations and genuine film—has fueled renewed interest in black and white. It’s also perfect for capturing raw, candid moments that highlight emotional wedding photos in a timeless yet contemporary way.

When to Use Black and White Photos in Your Gallery

Choosing which images to convert to black and white can be a fun, creative part of the process. Golden hour portraits bathed in soft light can look ethereal without color, while first dances under dramatic reception lights can become cinematic show-stoppers.

For ceremony coverage, black and white can focus on the tearful exchange of vows rather than the vibrant backdrop. Even the hustle and bustle of getting ready or the excitement of guests clinking glasses can take on a new dimension in black and white.

How Chicago Wedding Photographers Approach It

Many Chicago wedding photographers, myself included, love mixing color and black and white images for a dynamic gallery. Working with a second photographer often allows multiple perspectives—one can capture colorful floral arrangements while the other focuses on monochrome candid moments. This blend ensures you’ll have a versatile wedding album that captures both the lively energy of the city and the timeless appeal of black and white.

Tips for Couples Considering Black and White Wedding Photos

Trust Your Photographer’s Eye: We know which moments will look stunning in monochrome.

Balance Is Key: Mix black and white with color for a well-rounded story.

Embrace Emotion: Black and white amplifies feelings. Use it for heartfelt moments.

Consider the Venue: High-contrast locations (think historical churches or modern industrial spaces) often look incredible in monochrome.

Whether you view black and white wedding photos as a timeless tradition or a trendy aesthetic, there’s no denying their impact. They strip away the noise, making room for candid moments, emotional connections, and the simple beauty of your day.

So when you’re planning your wedding album style, consider sprinkling in some black and white magic—you might just find that these images become the heart of your wedding album. Although I make sure to give the color version of them all. But some images are potentially more pretty in black and white especially if you print them.