A handful of Tips
How I Approach Posing and Candid Shots to Enhance Your Photography Experience
The way you felt in front of my camera is more important than what you see later in the photographs
As a seasoned wedding photographer based in Toronto, I've spent over eight years capturing the most cherished moments for couples on their special day. One of the key aspects of my photography style is the delicate balance between candid shots and posed portraits, ensuring an unforgettable experience for my clients.
The Wedding Photography Guide
Before we dive into the details of my approach, don't forget to check out my comprehensive bridal guide. This is a full wedding guide I created for my clients, and it includes a dedicated section on engagement sessions, providing you with invaluable insights on how to make the most of these pre-wedding shoots.
Now, let's explore how I work with my clients to capture those genuine, emotional, and candid moments that truly define their wedding day.
Andira and Daniel- Miami, FL
Capturing Genuine Emotion
Candid shots are those beautiful, unplanned moments where genuine emotions shine through. However, it might surprise you to know that even in these candid moments, some gentle guidance and direction often play a crucial role.
There are instances where an image may appear candid, but in reality, my clients were gently guided into a particular pose or prompted in a way that brought out a natural and candid reaction, and this will look different for every couple!
One common question I get is, "How do I capture genuine emotion in my photographs?" The answer is quite simple – you can't force emotion out of your clients.
No matter what, I can't force emotion out of my clients. If it's there, it's there and I document it as uniquely as I can. But if it's not? Then it's just not. That's just how it goes.
I can do what I do, but my clients have to be there to love and enjoy each other's company, that's what it's all about.
This is why I encourage clients to just be themselves, and not worry if the wind makes their hair not perfect, or if they are worried about their angles, or if they wear something super uncomfortable but it's a "luxury" brand because all of these things affect how a client feels.
Understanding the Art of Candid Shots
The First 15 Minutes Matter
Preparation for the Shoot
I always tell my clients that the first 20 minutes are often a little weird for everyone, it's expected and it's okay!
It's during this time that we establish a connection and ease any initial awkwardness. These moments can set the tone for the rest of the session.
I make the best of this time by asking questions, being intentional, and authentic. I assure my clients it's normal to not be sure of what to do, and it's my job to get them to a comfortable space. I encourage them to communicate their preferences, such as preferred angles or features they'd like to highlight. It's my responsibility to make them feel confident and exceptional, and I'm here to ensure they look their best.
To make the most of our time together, some preparation can go a long way. For brides, sharing your favourite portrait sessions and images from my portfolio with your groom can help set expectations and alleviate any nervousness. The more you both know about what to expect, the more at ease you'll feel during the shoot.
I'll teach you some foundational poses, which act as a starting point for seamless transitions between different poses. Clear and concise instructions are vital to maintain confidence and prevent any confusion. We'll avoid spending too much time on a single pose to prevent stiffness and discomfort.
The key to a successful photography experience is nurturing your confidence and creating an environment where you can be yourselves without inhibition. It's about capturing your unique connection and emotions, making your wedding photographs truly special.
In the end, it's not just about the photos; it's about the memorable experience we create together. So, let's transform your portraits and make your wedding day an extraordinary one!
Explore more of my wedding photography insights and advice in my bridal guide to ensure your big day is a resounding success.
