The Key to Achieving Candid Photos

The number one keyword that my couples use to describe what they want out of their photos is “candid.” So how do we work together to achieve that?

The first word that comes to my mind is “trust.” Trusting your photographer, embracing their creative ideas, and trusting that they will tell you if something doesn’t look right. I always tell my couples that if I’m not interjecting and adjusting anything, that means that what they’re doing is perfect and to keep going!! Sometimes it’s better the less that I interrupt you. If you and your partner are having a moment, that’s what I want to capture.

The second word that comes to my mind is “movement.” The more I can get you guys moving and running around, the better. And something that has a big affect on movement is 𝘭𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. Some locations allow us to move around more than others. Obviously if we’re on the edge of a cliff and the ground is uneven, we need to be much more careful in our movements and it’s a bit harder to run around and throw your girl over your shoulder. So if candidness is super important to you, you’ll want to choose a location that allows space and safety for that. If you need help choosing a location for this, I’m happy to tell you what places I recommend.

And the third word that comes to my mind is “sequencing.” You’re probably like “huh?” So let me explain. I don’t want our photos to be a jagged “this pose – now this pose – now this pose.” I want us to flow through the session. “Walk towards me holding hands, but when you get to this spot, grab her face and give her a big kiss. Then you’re gonna pick her up and spin her around like you haven’t seen each other in a month.” This is sequencing. And then I follow it up with: “But don’t overthink it! The point is just to get you guys moving and interacting with each other as opposed to a robotic checklist of poses.” I’ve noticed that when I can sequence my poses like this, I’m able to capture so many more in-between moments and candid interactions. It usually results in lots of laughter and improvisation – which is exactly what we want!

This is how we can work together to capture those candid shots that all of my couples want. Trust me, relax, and have fun. That’s the key for candid shots.

If this matches the vision you have when you think of your engagement or wedding photos, click here and let’s get in touch!