Candid portraits

What are candid portraits?

There are a few styles of photography when it comes to portraits. The most common portrait styles are headshot, editorial, boudoir, street, self-portraits, and the list goes on!

Here we are going to talk about a style that is very common, candid portraits. But what is it really, and how does it differ from the other styles?

A candid photo is a spontaneous and unposed picture that captures genuine emotions and authentic moments. It is often taken without the subject's awareness (or it is made to look like it) or active participation in posing. It is somewhat similar to photojournalism or street photography, which focuses on real-life interactions rather than staged scenes.

The key in candid photography is the absence of staging, which allows the subjects to appear natural and unguarded, revealing true feelings or actions as they unfold.

Key charasteristics

Unposed and natural

Subjects are unaware (or faking to be unaware) that they're being photographed or so comfortable that they forget about the camera. This produces relaxed body language and genuine expressions rather than "camera faces".

Storytelling

Candid portraits often tell a story about the moment, the person's mood, or their activity. There's context and narrative rather than just a face.

Emotion and connection

You will capture real emotions! Laughter, concentration, joy, contemplation, or interaction between people - moments that reveal personality and authentic feeling.

Spontainety

The photographer must be ready to shoot quickly as moments emerge and dissapear. There's little control over lighting or composition, so you adapt to what's happening.

Best places and moments to take candid portraits

Weddings and family gatherings

People are emotional and distracted by events, making them forget about cameras. Look for moments between ceremony activities - guests laughing, children playing, quiet conversations.

Street photography

Markets, cafés, parks, and busy streets offer endless candid opportunities. People engaged in daily activities reveal character through small gestures.

Cultural events and festivals

When people are absorbed in celebrations, performances, or rituals, they are naturally expressive and less camera-conscious.

Workplace

People in their element - artists creating, chefs cooking, craftspeople working - show concentration and passion that make for compelling portraits.

Golden hour in public places

Late afternoon light in parks or urban areas creates beautiful conditions while people relax, play, or commute home.

Best lens choices for candid photography

The best lens ultimately depends on the shooting distance and style. I often use my prime lenses (50mm and 85mm) for their image quality, discrete size and speed, and the latter gives me a comfortable space between me and the subject.

50mm: The classic choice. Natural perspective similar to human vision. Great for events and closer candids.

85mm: Perfect for more distant candids where you want to remain unobtrusive. Ideal for street photography or events where you can maintain distance.