2024 Highlights ~ Secrets to Natural, Candid Wedding Photos
How to capture natural wedding moments
If you’re looking for tips on how to make your wedding photos feel as authentic and heartfelt as possible, read on for my expert advice on capturing your day through natural, candid photography. As I look back at the lovely messages I’ve received from this year’s couples, two things stand out. Firstly, they all mention how they felt at ease on the day. Secondly, they highlight all the special moments captured for them to look back on for years to come. This combination of a relaxed approach and my experience of blending into the background to capture the moments that would otherwise go unnoticed means you’ll have an authentic record of your day. The hugs, laughter and happy tears are the moments you’ll treasure.
Candid moments during your ceremony
You’ll probably be feeling quite nervous during this part of the day and that’s perfectly natural. You’ll be concentrating on getting your vows right and the ceremony can pass in a bit of a blur. That’s why I capture all the little moments so that when you receive your photos, you’ll remember this key part of your day. As well as capturing the main events like the exchange of rings, I’ll be focusing on the little moments that go unnoticed. As an experienced photographer, I know exactly when these small but meaningful moments are likely to happen. From the secret looks between the two of you to the parent wiping away a tear, these intimate moments will make up the story of your ceremony. Once you’ve made it through your vows, it’s time to make your exit under a shower of confetti. Nothing says ‘just married’ like a confetti photo! At our pre-wedding consultation, we’ll decide on the best spot. On the day, ask your bridesmaids and groomsmen to arrange everyone in two rows for your confetti tunnel.
My top tip: Larger petals or biodegradable tissue paper confetti will show up best in your photos. For the perfect confetti shot, walk slowly, keep your head up and smile! Look at each other and around at your guests and ignore the camera. Take in this magical moment while I capture it for your album.
How to get candid photos of your guests
Your wedding is about the two of you and, of course, you’ll treasure those beautiful couple portraits. But to me, a wedding is so much more than that. It’s about the people you’ve chosen to be there to celebrate with you. Some of the most meaningful photos will be the candid photos of you and your guests enjoying your reception. My favourite part of the day for capturing guest photos is during your welcome drinks and there are a few ways to set the stage for those spontaneous moments. Make sure you leave plenty of time for guests to mingle and enjoy a drink. Immediately after the ceremony everyone will be keen to congratulate you and that’s a great time for capturing those emotional hugs. For an added touch of fun and playfulness, consider providing garden games like giant Jenga (I’ve lost count of how long I’ve spent waiting for the moment it comes crashing down!). These interactive elements create spontaneous moments of laughter and friendly competition, perfect for candid photos of your guests.
My top tip: Consider the space. An outdoor terrace or garden with natural light and space for people to move around and socialise is ideal. I can stand back from the action with a zoom lens and your guests will hardly notice I’m there so you’ll get natural photos of your favourite people. We’re so lucky here in Devon that there are so many fabulous wedding venues to choose from with the perfect spaces for guests to enjoy celebrating with you. Take a look at some of my real weddings for venue inspiration!
From speeches to the dancefloor ~ capturing guest reactions
The speeches are another great opportunity for guest photos. I’ll take a few photos of the people delivering the speeches then turn my camera to face the guests and focus on those reactions. There might be some emotional stories from a proud parent that leave guests with a tear in their eye. The embarrassing stories from your teenage years are guaranteed to get some great laughter shots! For your evening do, choose a band or a good DJ who will get the party started. I love the energy of this part of the day as everyone is feeling relaxed and in the mood to celebrate. From cheesy dance moves to group hugs, these are the photos that will round off the story of your day.
My top tip: People can be shy to be the first ones up dancing. Prime your bridesmaids and groomsmen to encourage everyone onto the dancefloor straight after your first dance. The more people dancing and enjoying themselves, the more I’ll be able to capture!
The Devon wedding venues featured in this post include: Rockbeare Manor | Bickley Mill | Harefield Barn | Upton Barn & Walled Garden | Torbay Party Barn | Cockington | Osborne Hotel | Headland Hotel
Our guests were full of compliments at Melanie’s friendly, professional approach whilst fitting in with the rest of the guests! This made everyone, including us, feel at ease which makes for better photographs. Melanie has exceeded all of our expectations and our photos are just beyond perfect, we could not be happier.
Thank you for reading my secrets to natural, candid wedding photos. I hope you’ve come away with a few helpful hints of how to get candid wedding photos. If you’re looking for a Devon wedding photographer who will document all the moments of your day, get in touch! Click to find out more about me and my photography.
