Candid photos capture expressions, gestures, and shared moments as they unfold. Family gatherings, celebrations, weddings, and conferences all offer opportunities. Here are eight tips for noticing those moments and photographing them with context.
1. Wait for a Special Moment
Candid photos are all about capturing people in the most natural way possible. Don’t simply snap photos of idle people. Wait until they’re engaged in something — opening a Christmas present or sharing a laugh over a joke someone told at the dinner table. Look for gestures and expressions that help tell the story of the event.
2. Strategic Positioning
Some people become self-conscious when a camera points toward them. In order to create natural candid images, look for ways to minimize your role as a photographer. Working near the edge of the action can help. Respect people’s preferences about being photographed. However, make sure that even though you aren’t directly interfering, you’ll still have a great view of the action.
3. Don’t Hesitate to Use Burst Mode
Candid photography is similar to sports photography in that you’re trying to catch a fleeting expression or a special moment that only lasts for a split second. If you think something photo-worthy is about to happen, try a short burst to improve your chances of catching it.
4. Choose the Right Lens
Candid photography doesn’t give you lots of time for lens changes. The best way to make sure you can take photos from close up or far away is to use a long zoom lens. In low light situations, you may also want a lens with a wide aperture so that you can avoid using a flash or a tripod.
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5. Make Sure Your Images have Context
Great expressions are only half of the image. If someone’s face lights up, show everyone why by including the object that is causing the expression — a partially unwrapped present, for instance. When someone is laughing, make sure to include some of the other people that are a part of the conversation. By giving your candid images context, you’ll tell a complete story in every photo.
6. Avoid Flash
Available light can help you work quietly and preserve the atmosphere of a scene. However, keep a shutter speed fast enough for moving people, and raise ISO when needed. If the light is too low, a carefully used bounced flash may be useful. Consider how it affects the scene and the people around you.
7. Be Flexible with Perspectives
Most images are taken at eye level, which is fine, but it helps if you can mix things up at least a little bit. Whenever you see a good opportunity, try shooting from above or below your subject. You can also try capturing reflections of people — a family gathering or a photo of a child reflected in a Christmas ornament, for instance.
8. Mind the Backdrop
When you’re taking candid images, you won’t have complete control over the backdrop. Distracting objects, people, and other unwanted elements will find a way to sneak into the frame. Look for ways to make these things a part of your image, or be prepared to move around until the backdrop, your subject and the timing all match up. Seasonal events can offer useful backdrops. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to take candid images against sparkling Christmas lights, snowy landscapes, greenery and more.
Candid photography is one of the most rewarding types of photography, not only because you’re creating memories, but also because it is so unpredictable. You never know what may happen at a particular event that will make for a spectacular photograph!
Learn More
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