The conversation around candids

One of the questions I hear a lot from couples is: “Do you shoot more candids, or do you pose us?” And the truth is, your wedding day will have a little bit of everything — posed portraits, prompted, and candid moments. Each of these has a place, and together, they give an accurate story of your day.

When I am shooting a wedding, my head is on a swivel, paying attention to the flow, which constantly changes. There are times when direction is required, and there are times when I stay elusive and let moments unfold.

Posed

These are the more timeless photos, such as everyone looking at the camera, generations of family members, wedding party, or, if you choose, guests. Yes, these will feel a bit more structured because they are. However, most of the time, your family members are happy that you included them, and these are the photos that will live through the years of future family. This is done efficiently to make sure you can get back to your day!

Prompted

These are direction-based also, but more fun — like "look at each other, whisper something cute in their ear, walk hand in hand, and bump hips." When doing this, it isn't about being still and stiff; movement is important. This is your space to have fun and create a space for real moments in between—with a little nudge from me. Full transparency, these are often the "candids" that people see when looking at inspo.

Candid

These are unplanned: the moments of you and your partner getting ready, talking to guests, dance floor shots, etc. These are completely undirected scenes that aren't created or prompted. These photos are often captured during the ceremony, reception, and breaks in the timeline.

"Acting Candid"

Something I tell my couples is to "ignore me" during your reception, unless asked. I know, I know, maybe it sounds a bit rude, but it allows me to be observant and be able to effectively capture those candid moments. There is no need to perform or pretend, just be present, and I will handle the rest.

How it balances

On your wedding day, you can expect:

• Posed photos for legacy

• Prompted photos for in-between.

• Candid photos for the moment in time photos.

  
  

All together, they create a curated gallery that accurately tells the story of your day in a way that is complete and authentic. The goal is that when you view it, you can go back to the day and relive those emotions.

My best advice? Please don't stress about looking goofy or awkward. If you let all that go, the photos show it.

Below you will see a few of Hadley + Trevor's pre-ceremony photos that were a mix of prompted, posed, and candid.