CANDID, PROMPTED, OR POSED PHOTOGRAPHY
One of the most common things I hear from couples is: “We just want candid photos.”
And I completely understand why.
Candid images feel natural. Emotional. Unscripted. They’re the photos that look like real life — not a performance.
But here’s something most couples don’t realize:
Many of the “candid” images you see — especially on Pinterest — aren’t actually unplanned.
They’re guided. And that’s not a bad thing.
WHAT “CANDID” ACTUALLY MEANS
True candid photography happens when moments unfold naturally without any direction at all.
Think:
• your dad’s reaction during the ceremony
• a hug with your best friend
• laughter during speeches
• a quiet moment between the two of you
These are moments that can’t be created — only observed.
But when it comes to portraits (like engagement sessions or bride & groom photos), standing in front of a camera with no direction often feels… awkward. Because most people aren’t used to being photographed.
THE MISSING PIECE: PROMPTING
This is where prompting comes in — and it’s the heart of how I photograph my couples.
Prompting means giving you simple, natural direction so that real moments can unfold.
Instead of:
“Stand here. Look at the camera. Smile.”
I might say:
• “Walk toward me, smile, and I’ll tell you when to look at each other.”
• “Pull her in like you haven’t seen her all day.”
• “Whisper your Taco Bell order in her ear to make her laugh.”
The result?
Photos that feel candid — because the emotion is real — even though the moment was gently guided.
WHY FULLY “CANDID” PHOTOS DOESN’T WORK FOR EVERYONE
This is something I say with so much love: Not every couple feels comfortable being completely candid right away.
And that’s okay.
If I simply told you to “just be yourselves” in front of the camera with no direction, most couples would:
• feel unsure of what to do
• become self-conscious
• lose that natural energy they’re hoping for
Which leads to photos that feel… a little stiff. That’s why guidance is so important.
WHAT ABOUT POSED PHOTOS?
Posed photos absolutely have their place. Fun Fact: The first photo that is ALWAYS downloaded from my couples galleries is what I call a “standard portrait” where you are both posed, looking at the camera and smiling.
Another example, Family portraits, are intentionally structured so that everyone looks their best and nothing gets missed.
But even with portraits of just the two of you, my goal is never to make you feel overly posed or unnatural.
Instead, I blend posing with movement and prompting so that everything still feels like you.
FINDING THE RIGHT BALANCE
The most beautiful wedding galleries are a blend of all three:
Candid = Real, unscripted moments that happen naturally.
Prompted = Gently guided moments that create natural connection and emotion.
Posed = Structured images that ensure nothing important is missed.
When these three come together, your gallery feels:
natural
emotional
timeless
and true to who you are
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU
You don’t need to worry about “being good in photos.”
You don’t need to practice poses or try to recreate something you saw on Pinterest.
My role is to guide you in a way that feels natural, comfortable, and true to your personalities — so your photos reflect your relationship, not someone else’s.
A NOTE FROM ME
Some of the most meaningful images I’ve captured weren’t perfectly planned or perfectly candid.
They were simply real moments, supported with just enough guidance to let them unfold.
That’s always my goal.
If you’re looking for a photographer who will guide you while still allowing space for genuine, meaningful moments, I would love to connect.
You can inquire anytime — I cannot wait to hear your story.
