Candid wedding photography is one of the most requested styles of photography by brides and grooms today. A skilled candid or ‘photojournalistic’ photographer will capture some of the most compelling, fun, and intimate moments of your wedding day, telling a story with their images. Since candid photography typically accounts for over half of a couple’s wedding photographs we wanted to share some tips for brides and grooms on how to look their best in candid shots.
1. Don’t Look At The Camera &… Smile!
If you’re looking at the camera and smiling the end result will not be a candid photo. According to Wikipedia, a candid photo is “a photograph captured without creating a posed appearance.”. So, how do you make sure you look amazing in your wedding pictures without being posed for them? The answer is a bit harder than it sounds… Work hard to be as unaware of the camera and your photographer as possible and smile – a lot!
2. Get Comfortable With Your Photographer
Getting to know your photographer is necessary for all styles of photography. For candid wedding photography, it’s paramount. Having a trusting relationship with your photographer will allow you to stay in the moment while they’re working in the background. Some of the most intimate shots are captured when your alone with your photographer, so it’s important your comfortable with them. With busy schedules and a pandemic on our hands, meeting your photographer won’t always be an option. We suggest scheduling at least one call or video conference with them a month before your wedding day. Remember, the more comfortable you are with your photographer, the better your candid shots will turn out.
3. Make Time For Pictures
Some of our favorite photos are taken during ‘downtime’ at a wedding. They can happen when guests and the bride & groom are just hanging out. A relaxed timeline will keep couples in good spirits and provide photographers plenty of time to take some creative candids.
4. Great Candid Wedding Photography Starts With Having Fun
Staying in the moment is the most important thing you can do to look awesome in your candid photos. Emotions come out in your every expression when you are in the moment and having fun. It’s not an easy thing to do but, the payoff is tremendous. Not only do you enjoy your wedding day by being present, but you also give your wedding photographer tons of material to work with!