Weddings are a special time in life filled with precious memories meant to be captured for a lifetime. Although posed and formal photos of the friends and family in attendance are important, candid and natural photos can be some of the most magical moments captured during that special day. This article will share several tips for couples on the day of the wedding to help them get the most natural and candid photos.
Hints to Consider When Planning for Candid and Natural Wedding Photos
Before the wedding day, consider the type of photos that would best hang in the couple’s home. A popular style is a light vintage feel that captures the essence of the day. A wedding planner can be a helpful resource to the couple in planning the big day and receiving suggestions to help maximize photo ops.
It’s also important to consider the location where the ceremony and reception will be held. Ideally, the location should be one where natural light is abundant, as this allows for the best opportunity to capture candid scenes. Taking this step will help ensure the most beautiful photos are taken without having to spend time editing them afterwards.
Enjoy a Photo Shoot That Feels Comfortable
Many couples feel uncomfortable in front of a camera lens and worry about the portrait becoming stiff and posed. To help avoid this, it can be beneficial to meet with the photographer several times before the big day to become more accustomed to one another. This meeting can also help the photographer gain a better understanding of the couple’s wishes and style to help capture the best photos.
Plan a First Look to Capture Genuine Emotions
Many couples wait to see each other for the first time until the ceremony begins. This tradition can be sweet and nostalgic, but many couples are choosing to break away from the tradition in order to have candid pre-ceremony photo ops.
Couples can plan a “first look” photo so that the photographer can capture the genuine emotions the couple experiences when they see each other for the first time dressed and ready for the big day. It provides a beautiful opportunity to capture the couple alone at a location that is private and chosen by them. It’s a great way to capture these genuine emotions before the chaos of the ceremony begins.
Encourage Fun Poses and Interactions with the Camera
Having fun is an important part of capturing candid photos that express the couple’s true personalities. Couples should select a photographer who understands the natural-looking aesthetic they are trying to achieve. It’s also good to let the photographer know the extent to which they are willing to pose so that he or she knows which photos to capture and when to catch them.
When it comes to candids, the best photos often come from those taken where the couple is not aware the camera is in their presence. For example, having a photographer stand at a distance where he or she can capture the couple naturally at play or engaged in conversation. Acting out a funny moment, such as sharing an inside joke, can also lead to some great candid photos.
Pick a Trustworthy Photographer Willing to Get Their Shoes Dirty
The couple should feel confident that the photographer they’ve chosen will get the job done even in less than ideal conditions. This will involve the photographer being willing to go beyond the boundaries and explore new things, even getting down on the ground to get the best angle. The couple and photographer should have a conversation about the images they are looking to capture and decide if the photographer is the right fit for the job.
Allow the Moment to Unfold Naturally
The most important thing the couple can do on the day of the wedding is to allow the moments to unfold naturally. People are generally uncomfortable when they know the camera is present, so allow the photographer to become a fly on the wall and capture images as things happen during the day.
To capture that special moment and get the most beautiful candid wedding photos, a few tips can greatly enhance the experience. Selecting a great location, making the couple feel comfortable with the photographer, and encouraging fun and natural interactions will result in the perfect wedding photos. By picking an experienced and commited photographer and allowing things to unfold naturally, couples can create beautiful and candid images that will last a lifetime.