Why Candid Photography Works Even If You’re Camera Shy
If I had a dollar for every time a couple said, “We’re so awkward in photos,” I’d probably be editing this from a yacht right now. (Kidding… kind of.)
Here’s the thing: literally everyone feels awkward in front of the camera. Even the people you think look like models in my galleries? Yup. They said the same thing. That’s exactly why I love candid photography.
It’s not about forcing fake laughter or pretending to be cool; it’s about helping you feel comfortable enough that the laughter, the movement, the connection… all just happen.
So, What Is Candid Photography?
Let’s clear this up because “candid” gets thrown around a lot. Candid photography doesn’t mean I’m hiding in a bush taking secret paparazzi-style photos (although, honestly, I have crouched in some weird places for the shot).
It means I’m documenting real moments, you two being yourselves. Think movement, conversation, quiet moments, and little in-between smiles.
I’ll give direction, but it’s more like:
“Walk toward that light and talk about your favorite trip together.”
“Whisper your favorite pizza topping into their ear.”
“Okay, now do it again but say it like you’re mad.”
That’s the magic of candid couples photography; it turns awkwardness into something fun and natural.
The Couple Who Inspired This Blog
Kendall and Austin had one of those celebrations that made my heart so full. They’d already tied the knot privately at the courthouse earlier that week, but wanted a small, laid-back dinner party for family and friends at AhBa in Laguna Beach.
Since they’re both a little camera-shy, they wanted the night to feel completely hands-off, no crazy posing, no pressure, just real moments. By the time golden hour rolled in, everyone was relaxed, laughing, and so genuinely present.
That’s the moment every photographer waits for, the deep breath, the “oh wait, this is actually fun” moment. That’s when candid wedding photos stop being something you do and start being something you live!
“Okay, But… How Long Does It Take to Stop Feeling Weird?”
Usually around 15–20 minutes. I swear there’s a universal switch that flips once people realize I’m not about to make them do anything cringey.
The first few photos are always warm-ups. We’ll walk, talk, maybe play your favorite playlist. I’ll start with small movement-based prompts to break the ice, because nobody relaxes while standing stiff with a camera in their face.
By the halfway point, you’ll be laughing for real, your body language softens, and that nervous laugh turns into a genuine one.
That’s when I pull out my film camera. Because film + golden light + real laughter = actual perfection
My Approach: Documentary, Playful, and a Little Bit of Chaos
When people hear “documentary-style photography,” they sometimes imagine something super serious or totally hands-off. But that’s not me. My version of documentary is equal parts direction + personality.
Here’s what that looks like:
Prompting, not posing. I’ll guide you just enough so you know what to do, but never make you freeze or feel like you have no direction at all.
Movement-focused. We’ll walk, dance, spin, mess up, start over. Movement gets rid of nerves faster than anything.
Film + digital combo. I love mixing both, film gives that creamy, timeless texture, and digital lets me shoot freely while I move.
Environment-led. I shoot the space as it is, whether that’s a cozy restaurant like AhBa, a private backyard, or a sunset patio. The point is to blend in with your celebration, not turn it into a production.
Basically, candid photography is part art, part energy reading, part “I swear this will feel normal soon.”
“We’re Not That Lovey-Dovey, Will That Look Weird?”
Nope. You don’t have to be super touchy or dramatic to have beautiful candid photos. Kendall and Austin weren’t overly lovey-dovey either; they were more about soaking in the evening and connecting with their people. The way they looked at each other mid-laugh or snuck off for a quiet cheers, those were the moments that told their story.
I’ll never make you fake intimacy; the photos come from the real way you connect. If that means quiet moments sitting together or laughing at how weird this feels, that’s exactly what I’ll capture.
What If You Hate Being Photographed (Like, Truly Hate It)?
First: you’re not alone.
Second: there are ways to make this easier.
Here’s how I help couples who say this:
We start slow. I don’t whip out the camera the second we meet. We talk, walk, and just ease into it.
I let you move. You’ll never have to “hold a pose.” If it feels weird, we adjust or move.
We play music. It’s such an underrated game changer. At AhBa, the playlist was already perfect, everyone was singing along between bites, and it totally loosened the energy.
I’ll read the room. If you’re feeling tense, we switch it up. I might crack a dumb joke or give you space to breathe.
This isn’t about performing. It’s about documenting connection. If you want some more information on engagement photos, you can read this article, Engagement Photos 101: Everything You Need to Know About Engagement Photos by Brides!
Before the Shoot: How to Get Out of Your Head
I have a full post about this right here, Engagement Photography Tips to Stay Relaxed in Front of the Camera, but here’s the SparkNotes version:
Don’t over-prepare. You don’t need to study Pinterest poses. We’ll make your own. You can have inspiration you love, so I can get the vibe of what you want, but I care more about what works for you naturally!
Dress like yourself. Confidence shows more than outfits do.
Make it an experience. Treat your dinner or celebration as part of the photos, like Kendall and Austin’s cozy AhBa night. The more it feels like your real life, the better your photos will feel, too.
Communicate with your photographer. If you’re nervous, say so! We can plan around that.
Pro Tip: If you’re nervous about getting your photos done on your special day, practice with other shoots first!
Engagements aren’t just for ring photos and “save the date” pictures; engagements make it so you’re less nervous to be on the other side of the camera on your actual wedding day, especially if your engagement and wedding photographer are the same!
If you want ideas for how to make your shoot more personal, check out this guide: How to Make Your Engagement Photo Session Personal!
How Lighting + Location Impact Candidness
If you want a candid, unposed vibe, your environment matters a lot.
Golden hour: Still the best time to shoot! At AhBa, the warm sunset light poured through the windows and bounced off everything, and made the entire gallery feel so warm and intimate.
Space to move: You’ll relax faster in a quiet, open space than in a crowded park.
Natural elements: A little wind or movement adds to the candid feel, let your hair do its thing!
I use tools like PhotoPills to plan lighting and direction so you never have to think about where to stand or how to face the sun!
The “Don’t Do These” List
A few small things that can kill candid moments (and we’re not about that):
Overthinking your every move.
Choosing a location with crowds or distractions.
Wearing something uncomfortable.
Rushing. Candid photography thrives on slowness; those pauses in between shots matter!
If you want more tips, you can check out this guide on How to Take Cute, Non-Cheesy Engagement Photos You’ll Love by The Knot!
Real Story: The Shift I’ll Never Forget
Somewhere between dinner and dessert, Kendall and Austin forgot I was even there. They visited with their family, ordered food, and just sat taking it all in. The calm in the middle of the celebration, that’s what I’ll always remember.
That’s why I’ll always love candid photography. It’s not about perfection, it’s about comfort, connection, and a little bit of chaos! At the end of the day, all that matters is that you two are enjoying yourselves on your special day!
I want you to be able to sit back, soak it all up, and not worry about a single thing! I’m just there to capture the candid moments and everything in between!
Want Photos That Feel Like You and a Candid Couple Photographer That Can Capture It All?
If you’re someone who says, “We’re not photogenic,” I promise you, you’re wrong, and I would love to prove that to you! You just haven’t had the right experience yet. Reach out here, and we’ll make your wedding feel less like a shoot and more like the best day of your life (as it should be)!
You can check out my Pinterest and see all my romantic wedding photos and candid wedding photography!
Or if you want more tips for candid photography, you can check out my blogs When to Take Golden Hour Photos for Your SoCal Wedding: Inspiration from Lindsey and Tim and Central Coast Summer Wedding Inspiration: A Relaxed and Dreamy Day at Zaca Creek Ranch
