Candid wedding photography – why choose it?

Why Candid Wedding Photography Captures Your Day Best

Your wedding day is one of the most significant and emotional days of your life. Amidst the meticulously planned details—from the flowers to the seating arrangements—are the genuine, unplanned moments that make your day truly unforgettable. These are the moments that candid wedding photography captures best. Unlike traditional posed photos, candid photography tells the real story of your wedding day by documenting authentic emotions and interactions. Here’s why candid wedding photography should be at the top of your priorities when choosing a photographer.

I love to shoot portraits in my weddings but appreciate that my guests want a more candid documentation of their day. So we keep the portraits quick and creative. A blend of super simple poses, walking and hugging that even the most camera shy couples can bear (possibly even enjoy!)

BUT for the most part I am in the background capturing the day as it happens, leaving you to enjoy it.

What Is Candid Wedding Photography?

Candid wedding photography focuses on capturing natural, unposed moments as they unfold. Rather than directing the bride, groom, or guests to stand or smile in a particular way, the photographer becomes an observer, ready to snap photos of laughter, tears, and everything in between. This approach results in photos that are genuine and emotional—a true reflection of the day.

Examples of candid moments include:

• The bride’s mother adjusting her veil with tears in her eyes.
• The groom’s nervous smile just before the ceremony.
• Guests’ reactions to a heartfelt toast.
• A flower girl sneaking a taste of the wedding cake.

Why Choose Candid Photography?

1. It Tells Your Unique Story

Every wedding has its own story, filled with moments of joy, excitement, and sometimes even chaos. The chaos can be super beautiful! Candid photography captures the essence of your day, reflecting the unique dynamic between you, your partner, and your loved ones.

These images create a narrative that you can cherish for years to come. Instead of flipping through a collection of stiff, posed photos, you’ll relive your wedding day through the raw, unscripted emotions captured in every frame.

2. Authenticity Is Timeless

Trends in photography styles come and go, but authenticity never goes out of style. A good pint to note about me: I’m not a ‘trendy’ photographer. There are bits and pieces around me that I will experiment with if I like it, but I don’t shoot trendy photos because they are in.

Candid photos are timeless because they focus on real emotions rather than dramatic effects or stylised poses. Whether you look at your wedding album five or fifty years from now, these photos will still feel genuine and meaningful. They are memories relived and real from your day, unique to you!

3. You’ll Feel More Relaxed

Let’s face it: being in front of the camera can feel awkward, especially when you’re asked to pose in specific ways. With candid photography, there’s no pressure to perform. You can simply be yourself, enjoy your day, and trust your photographer to capture the magic as it happens.

Initially during bridal and groom prep you will feel my presence but after a short while you will barely know I am there and thats the way I like it!

This relaxed approach is especially helpful for couples who aren’t comfortable being the center of attention. You’ll hardly notice the photographer is there, allowing you to stay present and enjoy every moment.

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How Candid Photography Enhances Your Wedding Album

Candid photography doesn’t just complement traditional posed portraits—it elevates your entire wedding album. Here’s how:

Capturing Emotions in Real-Time

Some of the most beautiful wedding photos come from unexpected moments. Perhaps it’s the look of pride on your father’s face as he walks you down the aisle, or your best friend’s uncontrollable laughter during the speeches. These genuine emotions can’t be staged, and they add depth and character to your wedding album.

Highlighting the Little Details

Your wedding day will be a whirlwind of activity, and it’s impossible to take it all in. Candid photography captures the small, beautiful details you might miss, like a guest’s heartfelt hug, the intricate design of your wedding cake, or the playful antics of children on the dance floor.

Showcasing Guest Experiences

While traditional photography often focuses on the couple, candid photography highlights the experience of your guests. These images reveal the joy, laughter, and love shared by everyone who attended your special day.

How to Get the Best Candid Photos

Choose the Right Photographer

Not all photographers excel at candid photography, so it’s essential to choose someone with experience in this style. Look for a portfolio that includes plenty of natural, unscripted moments and ask about their approach to capturing these shots.

I offer a candid photography service with a sprinkling of creative portraits that are super relaxed and short. I think it’s important to have a blend of both.

Communicate Your Vision

While candid photography is all about spontaneity, it’s still important to communicate your preferences to your photographer. Let them know which parts of the day are most important to you and any special moments you want them to prioritise. When we have our initial meeting, I try to get a sense from you about exactly what you want, we work together to create a documentation that suits you both.

Trust Your Photographer

On your wedding day, the best thing you can do is let go and enjoy the moment. Trust your photographer to do their job without trying to micromanage. The more relaxed and present you are, the better your candid photos will be.

Encourage Guest Interaction

Candid moments often arise from genuine interactions. Encourage your guests to mingle, dance, and have fun rather than worrying about posing for photos. These natural interactions make for some of the most memorable images. Why not hop onto my blog on how to achieve great candid moment on your wedding day – my top tip: focus on activities!

Candid Photography in Dublin: Why It’s Perfect for Your Wedding

As a wedding photographer based in Dublin, I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless candid moments against the stunning backdrops of this vibrant city. Dublin offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern elegance, making it an ideal setting for candid photography.

Some of my favorite locations for candid wedding photos include:

St. Stephen’s Green

This iconic park provides a picturesque setting for outdoor weddings or post-ceremony photos. The natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere create the perfect environment for candid shots.

Dublin City Hall

A truly magnificent building that oozes class and beauty. Fit for all sizes and exclusive for the wedding party, there are endless opportunities for guests to mingle after the celebrations and for couples to get lovely relaxed and candid portraits. I love this place!

The Cliffs of Howth

For couples who want a dramatic, nature-inspired backdrop, the Cliffs of Howth offer unparalleled beauty. The sweeping views and fresh sea air create moments of pure magic.

The Streets of Dublin

The bustling streets of Dublin are full of life and character, making them a great choice for urban-inspired candid photos. Whether it’s a playful moment at Temple Bar or a quiet exchange on a side street, the city’s energy adds a unique flair to your photos.

Final Thoughts

Candid wedding photography is more than a style—it’s a philosophy. It’s about capturing the raw, unfiltered emotions that make your wedding day uniquely yours. By choosing a photographer who specializes in candid photography, you’ll receive a wedding album that feels authentic, timeless, and deeply personal.

If you’re planning your wedding in Dublin or anywhere in Ireland, I’d love to help you tell your story through candid photography. Let’s work together to create images that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

Contact me today to learn more about my candid wedding photography services or to schedule a consultation. I can’t wait to capture the magic of your special day!

Babs and Alex’s big day was also featured in The Wedding Journal online issue