What is candid wedding photography (and is it right for you?)
When couples start planning their wedding, photography is often one of the first things they book, but also one of the most confusing. You might love certain wedding photos, but struggle to explain why. Or you might worry that being photographed all day will feel awkward or unnatural.
If you’re searching for a wedding photographer Surrey, or even a wedding photographer UK, you’ve probably come across phrases like candid, documentary, or natural wedding photography and wondered what they actually mean.
This post is here to explain candid wedding photography in a simple way, and help you decide whether it’s the right fit for you, so when it comes to choosing a photographer, you know exactly what to look for.
What Is Candid Wedding Photography?
Candid wedding photography focuses on real moments as they naturally happen, rather than staged or heavily posed shots. It’s about documenting the day as it unfolds; the laughter, nerves, hugs, happy chaos, and quiet moments in between.
A candid wedding photographer isn’t directing every interaction or constantly asking you to pose. Instead, they observe, anticipate moments, and capture genuine emotion.
This style is closely linked to documentary wedding photography, where the goal is to tell the story of your day honestly, rather than create a series of set-up wedding pictures. Below is an example from a recent wedding I shot of candid wedding photography. You can view more examples of my candid and documentary style wedding photography here.
How Is Candid Wedding Photography Different from Traditional Wedding Photography?
Traditional wedding photography often involves more structured posing and direction. That works beautifully for some couples, especially those who enjoy being guided.
Candid or documentary wedding photography, on the other hand, suits couples who:
Want their photos to feel relaxed and natural
Prefer moments over perfection
Don’t want to feel like they’re “performing” for the camera
If you’ve ever looked at wedding photos and thought, “I feel like I was there,” (A true reaction I once had from someone’s grandma, who couldn’t come to the wedding) chances are they were taken by a documentary wedding photographer.
What If We Feel Awkward in Front of the Camera?
This is one of the most common concerns couples have and it’s completely normal. And as someone who feels the same, trust me when I say I understand. I hate being in front of the camera so much that I’ve made a career out of staying behind it!
Most people aren’t used to being photographed professionally. That’s why choosing a natural wedding photographer like me matters so much. Someone experienced will know how to put you at ease, blend into the background, and guide you gently when needed without making things feel forced.
As a professional wedding photographer, my aim is always to make couples feel comfortable enough to forget about the camera altogether. That’s when the most meaningful moments happen.
Is Candid Wedding Photography Right for You?
Candid wedding photography might be right for you if:
You want your photos to reflect how the day felt, not just how it looked
You value emotion and connection over perfect poses
You want to enjoy your wedding without constant interruption
It works beautifully whether you’re planning something intimate or a bigger celebration, whether you’re working with a Surrey wedding photographer, a Hampshire wedding photographer, a Berkshire wedding photographer or a UK photographer further afield.
Wondering how much a candid wedding photographer Surrey UK costs? You can get read more about this in my ‘How much does a wedding photographer cost’ guide.
Does Experience Still Matter?
Absolutely. While candid photography is about moments rather than backdrops, experience still counts.
A skilled wedding photographer will understand how to work with different lighting, venues, and timelines without disrupting the flow of the day. Whether it’s a town venue, countryside setting, or somewhere completely new, experience photographing weddings before allows your photographer to adapt calmly and confidently.
How to Find the Right Photographer for You
When trying to find a wedding photographer, look beyond single images. Spend time with full galleries - your photographer should provide you with some when you enquire. Notice how people interact, how moments unfold, and whether the photos feel honest.
Ask yourself:
Do these photos feel natural?
Can I imagine myself in them?
Would I feel comfortable around this person all day?
If the answer is yes, you’re probably on the right track.
Looking for a Natural, Candid Wedding Photographer?
If you’re drawn to natural wedding photography and want your wedding photos to feel relaxed, genuine, and full of real moments, I’d love to hear about your plans.
I am mainly a Surrey wedding photographer, a Hampshire wedding photographer, and a Berkshire wedding photographer, but I’m happy to travel anywhere to capture your day!
You can explore my portfolio to see full wedding stories, or get in touch for a no-pressure chat to see if we’re a good fit.
Want to book a chat but unsure what questions to ask? Read my blog on things to ask your wedding photographer for advice.
