A Chat with Summer Grace: Tender Moments in Wedding Photography Judge

Taylor from the team had the opportunity to sit down with Summer Grace, our esteemed judge for the "Wedding: Tender Moment" category in the 2025 Photography Awards, to hear her thoughts on what makes an image truly unforgettable.

There's an electricity to Summer Grace's photography. Her work is a powerful reminder that the most beautiful moments are rarely the most perfect; they are the messy, blurry, and heart-stoppingly real moments that define authentic wedding photography.

This focus on "feeling over perfection" places Summer at the forefront of the documentary and film wedding photography movement, making her the perfect judge for our "Wedding: Tender Moment" category. We asked for her expert insights on what makes a winning photo, the latest industry trends, and the value of entering creative contests. Here’s what she had to say:

What defines a winning photo in the 'Wedding: Tender Moment' category?

Summer Grace: I’m looking for feeling over perfection. The kind of photo that makes you pause and feel like you just walked into something sacred. I don’t care if it’s technically flawless. I care if it feels honest. A tender moment can look a hundred different ways, but it should hit you in the heart.

What are the key wedding photography trends you're seeing right now?

Summer Grace: I’ve noticed a move away from overly curated editorial work and back into messy, nostalgic, storytelling moments. More blur, more flash, more film photography. More photographers are trusting their gut instead of trying to copy a trend, and that’s always a good thing for creative, authentic photography.

Why should photographers enter wedding photography awards?

Summer Grace: It gives you a reason to pause, look at what you’ve made, and share something you’re proud of. Even if you don’t win, you’re getting your work in front of industry professionals and connecting with a community that gets it. That kind of visibility and creative reflection is huge for your career.

For photographers inspired by Summer's philosophy and looking for photography education and community, she shared details about a resource she has built.

"I’d love to shout out Summer School. It’s my online community for photographers who want real connection, education, and support all in one place. We’ve got members from all over the world, live workshops, classes, guides, film-friendly resources, freebies, and direct access to me inside the app - for as low as $33/month."

A huge thank you to Summer for sharing her experience and insights. You can see more of her incredible work on her website, Summergracephoto.com , and see her journey on Instagram at @summergrace.photo

Enter the awards for yourself, via this link here