How to Create Candid Moments at Your Wedding (That Actually Feel Real)

You know those wedding photos where the couple is mid-laugh, the parents are wiping tears, and the dance floor is completely unhinged in the best way? The ones that make you feel something because they’re so full of life? Yeah, those are the moments I live for behind the camera.

And while candid photos might look like they just happened out of nowhere, there’s actually a bit of intention behind creating the space for them. Candid magic doesn't come from saying "act natural" it comes from making you feel so comfortable that you forget the camera is even there.

Here’s how to make that happen on your wedding day:

1. Be Present — Not Perfect

The most candid moments happen when you're actually in the moment. If you're worried about how your hair looks, whether the table settings are straight, or if you're running five minutes late, it’s harder to settle into the joy of it all.

The best thing you can do is let go of perfection. Your veil might blow the wrong way, someone will step on your dress, a groomsman might cry during the ceremony, and those are the moments that tell the real story.

So breathe, loosen your shoulders, and let the day unfold. I’ll be there catching the pieces you didn’t even realize were beautiful.

2. Surround Yourself with People Who Make You Feel Like Yourself

If you feel relaxed, you’ll look relaxed. Simple as that.

Your getting ready room should feel calm, not chaotic. Choose to get ready with your closest people!! The ones who make you laugh, who ground you, who will hand you a mimosa and remind you to take it all in.

The more at ease you feel with the people around you, the more natural your interactions will be, and that’s when the candid moments start flowing.

3. Do Things That Feel Like You

Want more genuine reactions? Infuse your day with things you actually love.

Skip the traditions that don’t feel right. Add in something spontaneous. Share a private vow exchange, bring your dog, have your mom zip your dress, do a shot with your wedding party...whatever feels most you. When you’re doing something that feels authentic, the photos will reflect that.

Bonus: when your wedding feels personal, you’re not just going through the motions, you’re actually living in them.

4. Let the Little Moments Breathe

Not every photo-worthy moment is loud or obvious.

Sometimes it’s a quiet hand squeeze before walking down the aisle. A whispered joke during the ceremony. Your dad adjusting your boutonniere while trying not to tear up. These moments don’t need direction, they just need space.

As your photographer, I’m always looking for those in-between moments. And the more your timeline allows for small pauses, not rushing from one event to the next, the more of those memories you’ll have.

5. Forget the Camera is There

Easier said than done, right?

That’s why it’s so important to feel comfortable with your photographer (hi, I’d love to be that person). When you trust the person behind the camera, you stop performing and start being.

During portraits, I’ll give just enough direction to help you feel confident, and then I’ll step back and let you be yourselves. Whether that’s whispering something silly to each other, dancing in the field, or sitting quietly with your heads leaned together, the best photos come from simply being present with your person.

6. Party Like No One’s Watching (Seriously)

Some of the best candid photos happen after the formalities are over and everyone lets loose.

If you want photos of wild dance floor energy, laughter-so-hard-you’re-crying moments, and guests fully embracing the celebration, you’ve gotta lean in. Don’t hold back. Dance, toast, hug, cry, run barefoot, let your grandma sing karaoke. Give yourself permission to feel the day, however it comes.

That’s where the real stuff lives.

Final Thought: Let Go, and Trust the Process

At the end of the day, candid moments happen when you're not trying to create them, you're just experiencing them. The best thing you can do is surround yourself with love, focus on what matters, and trust the people you've hired to capture it.

If you're planning a wedding full of heart, and you're more about the feeling than the perfection, I’d love to be the one to photograph your day.

Let’s tell your story the way it felt.