California Bay Area Wedding Photography

Documentary-style wedding photographer capturing the candid in-between moments of your special day.

Don't let photography run your wedding day.

Most wedding photographers will want to direct the action during your wedding. Rikki Ward follows the documentary method of capturing events in the best way possible without interfering with the precious moments taking place.

Fully capture one of the most important events in your life with images that transport you to that moment in time for generations to come.


Some of the benefits

Actually enjoy your day

With Rikki's easy going manner, you can feel comfortable during your wedding day.

Candid, not posed

Receive a gallery full of natural, emotive imagery from your event that isn't stiff or posed.

Quick delivery

Images are delivered within 2 weeks so you never have to wait long for your photos.


Image gallery

What clients are saying…

  • "Our wedding guests keep mentioning how Rikki was capturing every moment the evening of the wedding! They are in awe! She captured so many authentic moments from our wedding of us and our guests. She even went above and beyond to organize a group photo of my husband and I with all of our guests that I had hoped for. On top of that, Rikki's positive energy is infectious. You can't help but smile when working with her. I would absolutely recommend Rikki for all your photography needs!"

    - Alexis L., Sunnyvale, CA

  • "Her photos perfectly captured the experience of my wedding day and the unique and meaningful character of the setting. Rikki was thoughtful and thorough, taking time to learn about the ins and outs of my vision for the day. She was patient and inquisitive, and clearly outlined next steps. On the day, Rikki was a lovely, easy presence. She seamlessly coordinated photos that required posing, and disappeared into the action in order to capture spontaneous moments. The finished photos are gorgeous. I can't recommend Rikki highly enough. Lovely person to work with, and highly skilled in every aspect of her craft."

    - Clara R., Oakland, CA

  • "Rikki is the best. She communicated a couple of ideas with us, and didn't bog us down with details. Her flexibility with our families on taking way more pictures then the schedule would allow, eased my anxiety, as she was able to direct everyone, deftly, without being bothered. I can't believe how she was able to weave in and out of the crowd to capture so many real candid moments. We couldn't believe the quality of the pictures! Natural with a modern feel. Everything was perfect!"

    - Steve B., San Francisco, CA

  • "Rikki and her partner were a dream to work with. They were completely non-obtrusive during the ceremony, though they got every shot that we wanted. They were extremely patient herding family and friends together for group photos. There was never a single point where anything they did added to the stress of the day. If anything, their professionalism helped provide structure and added a calmness to the whole thing. We've been suggesting Rikki to all our friends that are getting married and we'd definitely suggest you see if she's available for any of your events."

    - Ameen B., Sacramento, CA

  • "I felt so comfortable around Rikki, and she was so understanding and had the best energy. She took photos in a time efficient manner and did a great job of handling the situation. Just to add - Rikki was also great with communication via phone and email both before and after the wedding. But the best part of all - our photos are absolutely gorgeous! We constantly get compliments on them, and proudly display them around our home, as do our family members."

    - Vanessa F., San Francisco, CA


What is photojournalism?

The photojournalism approach to wedding photography means documenting real moments in a way that tells a story. This requires having a wide range or skills. Not only knowing how to use the camera, but also being able to instantly put people at ease, capturing flattering angles without interrupting the action, and moving quickly to never miss an important moment. If you've ever felt that the best photos of you are the ones you didn't know were being taken, then photojournalism could be perfect for your needs.


Headshot of Rikki Ward, documentary wedding photographer in San Francisco California Bay Area

Meet Rikki Ward

As a professional photographer with more than 20 years experience, Rikki started with classic film photography and still brings that aesthetic into her work today. She has traveled the world photographing people, making connections, and having adventures. She finds joy and humor in everyday life and aims to bring that sense of awe and inspiration to every session with her clients.

Let’s tell your story together

1. Phone consult

Book a call with Rikki below to chat about your needs and make sure this is the right fit for your wedding.

2. Photo session

You can relax and simply enjoy the day. Rikki will capture the best images without getting in the way.

3. Enjoy your photos

Your images will be delivered in an online gallery within 2 weeks so you can enjoy them right away.

Wedding day packages

  • My Big Fat Wedding Package

    $5,600

    Up to 10 hours of coverage

    Two photographers

    Online gallery + high-resolution digital downloads of all edited images

    Engagement Session

    Custom-designed 20-page album

  • Give the People What They Want

    $3,700

    Up to 7 hours of coverage

    One photographer

    Online gallery + high-resolution digital downloads of all edited images

    Engagement Session

    Add Additional Photographer (+$150/hour)

  • Sweet & Petite

    $2,600

    Up to 4 hours of coverage

    One photographer

    Online gallery + high-resolution digital downloads of all edited images

    Add Engagement Session (+ $1,100)

    Add Additional Photographer (+$150/hour)

20% deposit will hold your wedding date, with the remainder due one week before the event.

Additional products


Heirloom Album

Enhance your Wedding Package with a custom designed premium album containing your favorite images. With layflat pages, professional printing, and hardcover design, this album will easily become part of your family's cherished legacy to be passed down to future generations. Albums start at $1,100.


Prints & Collections

Order premium printed products directly from your online gallery and enjoy tangible keepsakes from your wedding day. Individual prints start at $47.

Boxed Collection of 10 Matted Prints - $670

Boxed Collection of 10 Prints- $440

Weddings are often very stressful, with so much riding on that one day. And choosing the right photographer can often make the biggest difference. For couples who don't want to interrupt the proceedings or plan the entire day around photoshoots, but still want heirloom-quality images, documentary photography might be the perfect solution.

Rikki's experience with photojournalism means she anticipates priceless moments before they happen and is able to capture them in the best way possible. She instantaneously puts her clients at ease with her down to earth approach and allows joy and love to flow naturally. She also knows the best angles to capture so everyone looks their best in portraits. These photos will bring you back to that full, rich moment during your wedding day that you will cherish for many years to come.

Here is how it works. First, we'll have a phone call to get to know each other and make sure this is truly the best fit for your needs. If available, your date is then reserved with a 20% deposit. The final balance is due 1 week before your big day. Rikki will arrive at your venue ahead time and will immediately start photographing the activities. All you have to do is have fun, spend time with your family, and enjoy the festivities. Rikki will provide guidance and direction as needed, but mostly it will feel like she's not even there. About 2 weeks after your wedding, you'll receive an invitation to view and download your final high resolution images in an online gallery (feel free to share!) and the option to finish your Wedding Package with a beautiful heirloom album or professional prints celebrating this time in your life.

Make sure to book a complimentary consult call below to reserve your wedding date ASAP.

Happy laughing bride at her California wedding. Documentary wedding photography in Bay Area San Francisco California by Rikki Ward.

Wedding photoshoots usually aren't fun or relaxing.


Let's Chat

Schedule a complimentary phone consultation with the photographer to book your wedding photoshoot by selecting the date and time on the calendar.