One thing I think we can ALL agree on is that we don’t want our sessions to look like the couple is at the senior prom. What I mean by that is we don’t want them to look posed! The photos you take should be as authentic and full of life as the couple themselves. After all, it’s a glimpse into their life! Keep it real. Keep it raw.
Yes, it sounds so easy, but how do I do that?
I’m so glad you asked! I’ve listed 5 easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy tips below to keep your work candid (so easy, in fact, you can start using them today).
1. Plan 10-15 minutes to “warm up”
Yes. Really. It takes couples about that amount of time to warm up in front of the camera. It can be a super awkward thing for some people, especially if they’ve never had professional photos taken together. During the warm-up period I only take about five photos even though I’m behind the camera the entire time directing the couple. It’s less overwhelming when it comes to editing. Don’t waste a million shots when they’re super stiff and not cheesin’ enough! I promise, plan enough time for them to warm up and the natural poses will come.
2. Focus on location for starters
Gradually introduce the camera to the couple. Start by capturing them in the setting they’ve chosen. Use your wide-angle lens to capture some of that gorgeous foliage, or the top of the city skyline in the distance. Focusing on your setting before your portraits grants you the opportunity to subtly introduce the camera to your clients. At this point, you’re not too close, not too far. It’s a comfortable distance (since no one likes a camera shoved in their face right off the bat!). After you capture some killer contextual shots, try moving on to a different spot. This will allow you to introduce detail shots or portraits as you change up the location.
3. Movement shots
Getting your couple moving takes their focus off of the camera and on to the actions they’re performing. Here are a few of my favorite:
- Holding hands, walking toward the camera
- Slow dancing (make sure to add a few spins in there!)
- Piggyback rides
- Jump as high as you can
As the photographer, you have to remember that you are not waiting for the perfect-looking piggyback. The purpose of getting them moving is to capture the candid moments in between. Yes, they’ll feel silly, they’ll laugh as hard as they can. Make sure that’s what you’re getting.
4. Detail Shots
Detail shots are a great way to get up close and personal with your camera. Since the couple’s faces are not likely to be featured in these photos, they won’t feel too awkward with you in their bubble. TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE OF THIS! Draw it out as long as you need until you feel like they’re comfortable with you in their space. Detail shots include the ring (of course), shoes, clothes, accessories such as watches or earrings that have sentimental value, necklaces, hats, etc. Mix it up and keep it fun!
5. Portraits and the naked eye
And last, but not least, have fun with those portraits! If you have a 35mm lens I encourage you to use it. This range is very similar to the range the human eye sees. This comes in handy for portraits because it gives the viewer a sense that they’re standing right there with the couple. It seems real. It seems natural. The 35mm also tends to produce a nice bokeh effect when used on a max aperture (f/1.2 – f/1.8). This will bring a natural focus to your subjects without any crazy post-production tweaks.
I hope these tips help!
I’d love to see some of your work. Comment below or find me on Facebook or Instagram!
XOXO,
Kristin