How to Get Natural, Candid Wedding Photos Salt Lake Wedding Photographer

How to Get Natural, Candid Wedding Photos

One of the most common things couples say when they inquire about wedding photography is, “We want our photos to feel natural and not posed.” At Bella Alder Photo + Film, we specialize in capturing candid, emotional, and authentic moments that tell the true story of your wedding day. But how do you ensure your wedding photos feel genuine and effortless? In this guide, we’ll share expert tips on how to get natural, candid wedding photos that feel like YOU.

1. Choose a Photographer Who Specializes in Candid Photography

Not all photographers shoot in the same style. If you want candid, documentary-style images, you’ll need a photographer who prioritizes real moments over stiff, posed shots. When researching photographers:

  • Look at full galleries to see how they capture in-between moments.

  • Read reviews that mention how comfortable past couples felt.

  • Ask about their approach—do they direct and pose a lot, or do they step back and let the moments unfold? At Bella Alder Photo + Film, we take a storytelling approach. We guide when needed but focus on letting real emotions and interactions happen naturally.

2. Plan for a Relaxed Timeline

A rushed wedding timeline often leads to stress, which can show in your photos. Give yourself plenty of buffer time so you can be fully present. Some key timeline tips:

  • Allow extra time for getting ready, especially if you want those candid pre-ceremony moments.

  • If possible, do a first look so you can get many photos done earlier and enjoy your day without pressure.

  • Plan for golden hour couple portraits to get the most flattering, dreamy light.

3. Get Comfortable with Your Photographer

Your wedding photographer is with you for most of the day, so you should feel at ease with them! Schedule an engagement session to get comfortable in front of the camera. This will help you:

  • Learn how your photographer directs (or doesn’t!)

  • Get used to being photographed together

  • Feel more natural on the wedding day since you’ll already have a rapport

4. Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera

Some of the best wedding photos happen when couples forget they’re being photographed. Here are some ways to stay present:

  • During couple portraits, talk to each other, reminisce about your relationship, or even whisper something funny.

  • During the ceremony, focus on your partner and soak in every moment.

  • On the dance floor, let loose and just enjoy the party!

5. Have Your Photographer Capture Moments, Not Just Poses

The best candid wedding photos come from real interactions. Instead of standing stiffly and smiling at the camera, try these:

  • Walk together, hand in hand, while talking.

  • Share a quiet moment right after the ceremony.

  • Dance together when no one’s watching.

  • Laugh with your bridal party instead of forcing smiles.

6. Let Your Emotions Show

The most powerful wedding photos capture raw emotions. Don’t hold back—if you feel like crying, cry! If you want to laugh out loud, do it. The more real you are, the more authentic and beautiful your photos will be.

7. Encourage Guests to Be Present

Unplugged ceremonies can lead to more natural photos. If guests aren’t holding up phones, your photographer can capture their real reactions. Consider asking guests to put their devices away so they can fully enjoy the moment with you.

8. Opt for a Documentary-Style Reception Approach

Instead of a long list of staged group photos, let your photographer capture the reception as it happens—laughing during toasts, teary-eyed parents, wild dance moves, and stolen glances. These are the moments you’ll cherish forever.

9. Choose Locations with Good Natural Light

Lighting plays a huge role in creating soft, natural-looking photos. Try to get ready in a space with big windows, and choose ceremony and reception venues with beautiful, natural light when possible. Good lighting helps keep things looking organic rather than overly artificial.

10. Trust Your Photographer and Let Go of Perfection

At the end of the day, the best wedding photos happen when couples relax and enjoy themselves. Trust your photographer’s vision and embrace the beauty of the unscripted moments. Your love, your joy, and your unique story will shine through.

By following these tips, you’ll have wedding photos that feel real, emotional, and true to you. At Bella Alder Photo + Film, our goal is to capture not just how your wedding day looks, but how it feels. Let’s create something beautiful together!

Bella Aldersalt lake