Each wedding day is a one-of-a-kind celebration, brimming with emotions, intricate details, and timeless moments. One of the key challenges we face as professional wedding photographers is balancing candid and posed shots to tell a heartfelt, beautiful love story while also delivering the polished portraits couples can’t wait to print, hang, and display in an album.

Because I’ve shot countless weddings at this point, I thought I would share with my fellow wedding photographers how I’ve learned to juggle between these two important elements of a photoshoot. Keep reading to understand how to strike this balance effectively and ensure every shot contributes to creating unforgettable memories.

Why Balance in Wedding Photography is Key

Candid shots capture the essence of the day—the unguarded emotions, the laughter, the tears, and the little moments that often go unnoticed. Posed shots, on the other hand, provide elegance, structure, and those Instagram-worthy portraits that will likely end up framed on the couple’s wall. Both are essential for a complete wedding album.

By planning and strategizing, you can seamlessly weave together these styles, delivering a gallery that’s as dynamic and multifaceted as the day itself.

9 Tips to Help Balance Candid & Posed Wedding Shots

1. Pre-Wedding Consultation
   Sit down with the couple to understand their preferences. Ask about their vision, must-have shots, and favorite styles. Use this time to build rapport, which helps everyone feel more relaxed in front of the camera.
2. Create a Shot List
   Work with the couple to draft a detailed shot list, including key posed portraits (e.g., family groupings) and moments to capture candidly (e.g., the first look, reactions during the speeches). Share this list with a second shooter or assistant if you have one.
3. Scout the Venue
   Visit the venue before the big day to identify scenic spots for posed portraits and observe areas where candid moments are likely to unfold. Familiarity with the space can help you work efficiently on a tight schedule.
4. Time Management
   Plan the timeline carefully to allocate time for both styles. For example, schedule 45 minutes for posed portraits and aim to capture candids during naturally occurring moments like the cocktail hour or the dance floor.
5. Blend In During the Ceremony and Reception
   Use a long lens to capture emotional candids from a distance during the ceremony. At the reception, stay attentive but unobtrusive, mingling with guests to catch those organic interactions.
6. Give Direction, Not Commands
   When setting up posed shots, use prompts instead of rigid instructions. For example, ask the couple to share a private joke or whisper something sweet. This approach brings life and authenticity to posed photos.
7. Utilize Natural Light
   Whenever possible, use natural light to enhance the softness and warmth of your shots. Golden hour (the hour before sunset) is perfect for dreamy, romantic portraits.
8. Shoot in Burst Mode for Candids
   Moments happen in a split second. Shooting in burst mode increases your chances of capturing the perfect candid expression or interaction.
9. Crop Creatively
   Occasionally, the right cropping can give an editorial feel to a posed photo. This can be fun to play around with after the shoot is complete because it changes the potential vibe a shot felt originally.

Top 5 Must-Do Wedding Shots

I’m a firm believer that you have to have a game plan when going into a wedding shoot. Based on what you know about the couple, the timeline of events, and their desired vision for the day, planning ahead with a few must-have shots will help you stay on track. These are my top 5 must-capture shots for almost every couple I photograph!

1. The First Look
   Whether it’s between the couple or a parent seeing their child for the first time, this moment is raw and emotional. Capture both perspectives for a complete story.
2. The Bridal Party’s Energy
   Get a mix of posed and candid shots with the bridal party. Highlight their personalities through playful or heartfelt interactions.
3. The Ceremony Kiss
   This iconic moment is one for the ages. Position yourself strategically and shoot multiple frames to ensure you get the perfect angle.
4. The Parent Dances
   These tender moments are often deeply emotional. Capture not only the dancing but also the reactions from the crowd.
5. Golden Hour Couple Portraits
   This is your chance to create magic. Use the warm, diffused light to highlight the couple’s connection in a serene and romantic setting.

Become a Candid & Posed Pro

Mastering the balance of candid and posed shots takes practice and a genuine passion for storytelling. By being organized, staying adaptable, and understanding the couple’s vision, you’ll create a gallery that not only meets but exceeds their expectations.

At the end of the day, your work as a wedding photographer isn’t just about taking pictures; it’s about preserving memories. With these tips in mind, you will be able to do just that and provide so much joy to many!

Good luck!

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Check out these other helpful blog posts:

• Wedding Venue Must-Do’s as a Pro Wedding Photographer
• Capturing Your Wedding Details