In the ever-evolving world of wedding photography, candid shots have become the holy grail for many couples and photographers alike. But what does it truly mean to capture authentic moments? We recently sat down with renowned photographer John Dolan to discuss the art of candid photography and the pitfalls of chasing trends.
The Truth About Candid Photography
Let’s face it—capturing genuine moments isn’t as simple as pointing your camera and hoping for the best. As John wisely points out, “You have to practice outside of a wedding to get good at candids.” It’s not about luck; it’s about skill, preparation, and a keen eye for real emotions.
The Anti-Bride Phenomenon
You’ve probably heard whispers about the “anti-bride” trend. It’s all about being different… just like everyone else. 🙃 John humorously notes, “The anti-bride is obsessed with all the same things because they want to be different, but they’re all wanting to be different in the same way.”
This trend has led to some questionable practices in the photography world, like:
- Staged “candid” moments
- The infamous bridesmaid reveal
- Throwing veils in the air for that perfect shot
But these staged moments are about as authentic as a three-dollar bill.
The Danger of Fakery in Photography
John doesn’t mince words regarding fake candids: “Shooting fake candids is just plain lazy.” Ouch! But he’s got a point. When we stage these moments, we’re not just cheating ourselves – we’re cheating our clients out of real, meaningful memories.
Every Wedding is Its Own Trip
One of the most powerful insights John shared? “Every wedding is its own trip. And it has to reflect that couple rather than your own template.” This gem of wisdom reminds us that our job isn’t to recreate someone else’s Instagram feed – it’s to tell the unique story of the couple we’re photographing.
Striving for Excellence in Candid Photography
So, how do we capture those real, heart-stopping moments without resorting to fakery? John offers some sage advice:
- Practice, practice, practice: Don’t wait for the wedding day to hone your skills.
- Be present: Real candids come from being in the moment, not planning the next shot.
- Maintain standards: A blurry photo isn’t “artistic” if it’s just out of focus.
- Push yourself: Don’t let yourself off the hook. Strive for excellence in every shot.
The Difference Between Blurry and Out of Focus
John makes a crucial distinction: “There are standards we need to adhere to. At some point, I should do a post about the difference between out of focus and blurry.” He explains that a blurry shot can capture the excitement of a moment, while an out-of-focus image is simply a technical mistake.
Embracing Authenticity in Your Work
The key takeaway? Authenticity is everything. As John puts it, “You want to go home from a wedding thinking to yourself, I photographed that wedding honestly, and these pictures are going to reflect that love and complexity.”
This approach not only produces better photos but also builds a stronger foundation for your career. “Every time you work in this way, it builds stronger muscles,” John reminds us.
Elevate Your Candid Photography
Ready to take your candid photography skills to the next level? 📸✨ John Dolan’s insights are just the tip of the iceberg. If you’re hungry for more wisdom and want to truly master the art of capturing authentic moments, we’ve got you covered!
Join us for The Creative Sustainability Glowup with John Dolan. This course is packed with practical tips, creative insights, and years of industry wisdom to help you elevate your photography. Don’t miss this chance to learn from one of the best in the business!
Remember, your unique vision and commitment to authenticity are your superpowers in a world of templates and trends. Keep pushing, keep learning, and most importantly, keep it real.
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