Capturing Candid Moments at Weddings: My Top Tips

As a wedding photographer, my goal is to capture your story as authentically as possible. I’ve found that the best moments happen when you feel at ease, fully yourself, and not “on” for the camera. Here are some insights into how I approach candid photos and my top tips for couples who want their day documented in the most genuine way.

Creating a Comfortable Atmosphere

It all starts well before your wedding day. After you book with me, I send out a questionnaire to learn about you as a couple—your personalities, your story, and any details you’d like me to weave into your photos. This allows me to build an atmosphere that’s comfortable and familiar. On the day itself, my goal is to be more of a quiet observer, letting you be yourselves without feeling like you need to perform for the camera.

The Best Times for Candid Photos

While candid moments can happen anywhere and anytime, the magic often unfolds during the open dance floor. Guests let loose, couples are fully relaxed, and the energy of celebration is all around. While I do offer some gentle guidance during the preparation and ceremony moments to make sure we capture your best angles, I avoid any shots during dinner—no one looks their best mid-bite!

Techniques for Capturing Genuine Emotions

I have a few tricks to encourage natural reactions, but most of the time, it’s about giving you and your partner the space to simply be yourselves. Often, the best moments come from leaning into the small, natural interactions—whether it’s a soft kiss, a shared laugh, or a spontaneous dance.

Why Candid Photos Are So Special

While posed shots have their place, candid moments hold a different kind of magic. They capture the real, unscripted essence of your day. Poses can sometimes feel stiff, but if I capture a spontaneous dance or a loving glance, those images carry a depth that’s impossible to recreate with direction.

The Technical Side of Candid Photography

For candid photos, I take a lot of shots to capture the perfect moment. Not every click is a winner, but in one out of five, there’s a gem—the right laugh, the perfect expression. This may mean more time in editing, but it ensures I have the authentic shots that make your gallery special.

Advice for Couples Who Love Candid Photos

If candid photos are your priority, I encourage you to get to know me as your photographer—let’s grab coffee or chat, and definitely don’t skip the engagement session! Share little details about yourselves, your story, and any unique ideas you have. The more comfortable you feel, the more genuine and candid your photos will be.

Incorporate things that mean something to you: play a favorite song, bring in items that tell your story, or add quirky, personal details to your day. When you’re wrapped up in moments that reflect who you are, the candid magic happens naturally.

Creating Opportunities for Candid Moments

The wedding day can be full of structured timelines, but try to carve out moments just for yourselves. Want to run through a field at sunset or share a private cake-cutting away from the crowd? Do it! Stealing away these little moments can make your wedding day feel even more special—and they make for some of the best photos.

In the end, the beauty of candid photography is that it captures you as you truly are. No two couples are the same, and no two candid moments will ever be identical. As long as you’re willing to lean in, have fun, and be yourselves, we’ll create memories that feel as real and unique as your love.