How to Get Candid Engagement Photos

Engagements

October 20, 2024

Candid photos are all over Pinterest and Instagram, and couples are constantly tell me how much they want candid images at their engagement session and on their wedding day. However, getting great candid photos is just as much a responsibility of the couple as it is the photographer. We can guide and prompt candid moments, but there are a few things couples can do to help achieve the candid look that everyone loves!

Kelsey and Turner truly nailed the popular trend of laidback, candid engagement photos. They chose Lebanon Hills as the backdrop for their fall engagement photo shoot, and I am so thrilled they did! This is one of my favorite locations for fall photos, and this shoot is quickly becoming a favorite engagement session ever! I just loved how playful and effortless these two were together, and it resulted in some really fun candid engagement photos that I love.

Engagement Photo Shoot Outfits

I loved Kelsey and Turner’s simple, laidback style for their fall engagement photo shoot. It matched their personalities to go for something comfortable, yet still trendy. I think choosing comfortable clothes makes a huge difference for getting candid engagement photos. If you’re not wearing something comfortable, it’s hard to relax and just enjoy the experience. A no-fuss outfit is one of the best way to achieve laidback, candid moments for your photographer to capture.

I also love that these two chose to wear light, neutral colors. I think neutrals photograph well for my editing style, and they allow you to be the focal point of the images. If you don’t want photos to feel boring or drab, you can also choose pastels like light blue, sage green, and mauve. For fall, it can be tempting to reach for oranges and reds, but these colors are tough to photograph and I think they distract from your skin tone in photos. Instead, I love neutral colors like white, tan, navy, and cream so you can let the leaves be the pop of color in the image.

How to Get Candid Engagement Photos

The best part about Kelsey and Turner is how much they make each other laugh. It allowed me to get such fun and candid shots of them that look effortless. So many clients want those candid photos they see all over Pinterest, but it’s impossible to achieve if you don’t let go in front of the camera. You have to have fun and not take yourself so seriously! These two really nailed that.

Also, for most couples, being in front of the camera is awkward. However, laughing through it and acknowledging that awkwardness will help get that carefree candid look. If you feel stiff and try to suppress it, your photos will be stiff too. As an engagement photographer, I can set you up for success, but it’s up to you to embrace the moment and let go of insecurities.

Here are some of my favorites candid moments from this fall engagement session at Lebanon Hills!

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