How to Get the Best of Both Editorial and Candid Photography on Your Wedding Day
Whether it's posed editorial shots or those raw, real candid moments, I’ve got you covered. So let’s dive into how you can have the best of both worlds in your wedding photos.
Understanding Editorial and Candid Photography
What is editorial wedding photography? First off, let’s break it down: editorial photography is all about the styled, posed shots that focus on aesthetics. Think magazine spreads—where every detail, from your designer dress to the venue’s architecture, is captured in its most stunning light.
What is candid wedding photography? Candid photography, on the other hand, is spontaneous. It’s about capturing real moments as they happen, from laughing with your friends to that unexpected tear during your vows. Candid shots are less structured but full of genuine emotion.
Why You Want Both Styles
Having both styles on your wedding day means you’ll get the chic, timeless shots you can frame and hang on your walls, while also documenting the real, unscripted moments that make your day uniquely yours. Your wedding album should tell the whole story—from the beautiful details to the in-between moments, like a hug from your dad or the laughter on the dance floor.
- Editorial Style: Polished moments that are chic and timeless.
- Candid Style: Raw, emotional, and authentic interactions.
How to Achieve the Perfect Blend
Pre-Wedding Consultation
The key to getting the best of both worlds is communication. Before the big day, we’ll chat about your vision. We’ll make a plan to ensure nothing gets missed.
Styled Poses and Natural Interactions
It’s totally normal to feel awkward in front of the camera—that’s where the editorial posing comes in. I’ll guide you through poses that feel comfortable and look effortless. But when it’s time to let loose and just enjoy your day, that’s when the candid moments come alive.
Timing and Spontaneity
I keep an eye on the timeline to make sure we have time for those styled editorial shots while also staying flexible enough to capture the unexpected magic of the day.
Trusting Your Photographer
Blending these styles is all about experience. You need a photographer who can seamlessly move between posed and candid moments without missing a beat. Rest assure that beyond the pretty backdrop, we’re choosing the most flattering light and angles to make sure you love the way you look.
How to Take Great Portraits
The No. 1 concern of my brides and grooms when I first discuss their wedding photography with them: “We’re not photogenic.” It’s not a thing. Not photogenic = Not comfortable with the camera. That’s it!
Photography is a technical skill. Portraiture is a people skill. It’s not my camera’s job to make you look photogenic. It’s my job. I learned something very valuable: the ability to calm people and to remove all anxiety from any photo shoot.
Actionable Tips for Couples
- Schedule an engagement session: Think of this as an opportunity to get some practice! You’ll learn valuable tips on how to pose and also learn a lot about what angles you like best.
- Choose attire and hair styles you don’t have to fuss over: Choose something that you feel comfortable moving around in without having to adjust much. Whatever you’re thinking about tends to show in your facial expressions so worry is something you want to avoid!
- Stop taking yourself so seriously: The reason people love candids so much is because they’re authentic! If posing for the camera feels painful, then move around a little! It’ll loosen you up a bit!
- Fake it ‘til you make it: Sometimes I’ll tell my grooms to “giggle” and the absurdity of it all makes them actually laugh. Whatever pose or direction your photographer is giving you that feels “weird,” just go with it.
- Trust the process: Every single couple we work with has been in your shoes. They have never done this before. They don’t know what to expect and they also think they won’t look like the couples that I have on my website. And then they are on my website, inspiring other couples like you!
With a mix of editorial and candid photography, we’ll capture both the polished moments and the raw, emotional ones to make your wedding album as unique and timeless as your love story.