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A candid image is an image that was not posed or set up and thus offered an honest view of a particular subject. A candid photograph is often taken with a camera that is either hidden or quickly put away. Because there are not posed, candid photos have a more natural spontaneity and thus capture the essence of an event. Now the candid photography is unavoidable photography in all events such as wedding candid photography, birthday candid photography, etc.
A candid photograph is the antithesis of a posed and a planned photograph, typically one in which the subject(s) is unaware of and probably unwilling to participate in being photographed. The word comes from the Latin root word ‘candidus’, meaning “pure, white, without stain.”
How do I Capture a Candid Picture?
● Position Yourself strategically:
Candid photography is about being in the right place at the right time to capture that perfectly spontaneous moment. By thinking ahead and anticipating what in particular makes a good shot, you have a better chance of getting some great photos.
Candid photography is a mix of excitement and unpredictability. But if you know what’s about to happen, you can take the time to get the best shot possible.
● Photograph People Doing things:
For one, People will focus your subject upon something that adds energy to a photograph (and takes their focus off you), but it also puts them in the components of a story in your picture.
● Mix up your Perspective:
Shooting from the hip creates a slightly different point of view from which to take your shots. This perspective gives your pictures a nice touch of personality as well. All together, it makes for some quality photos that capture the true essence of the scene. Speaking in capturing more candid moments, shooting from afar will make you feel somewhat detached from what’s happening, and your camera will capture more candid moments that you don’t intend to take.
If you want to catch your subject in a truly candid moment, it’s best to get as close as possible. Take the shot from eye level or even slightly below – that way, you’ll always be able to stay incognito.
What is the difference between candid photography and real photography?
Candid Photography
Real Photography
Regular photography or traditional photography captures pictures of the event as they are supposed to be held, but on the other hand, candid photography is all about capturing natural emotions. It’s the best way to ensure that the memories of your special day are caught in a natural and down-to-earth manner.
While all other photographers follow a set of rules, differentiating themselves from their competitors, candid photography renders you in control of where you can decide what to capture and when. You are also not bound by any rules about posting to your family or friends. So enjoy the moment, for that is what this style of photography is all about! The beauty of a candid photojournalist lies in the natural reactions of the people. It grabs people in their best emotions and brings out the feelings of that moment through a picture.
What do you need for candid photography?
● Always Choose the correct camera mode:
When you shoot on automatic, your camera lets you focus entirely on setting up the perfect photo. Automatic mode means you don’t have to worry about exposure or lighting. You can explore and create great images immediately. It’s an excellent way to get comfortable with your camera and get used to framing the shot, capturing light, and setting up the subject without having to think about camera settings.
● Zoom Lenses:
Perhaps the most versatile lens you can carry, a zoom lens offers a focal length to suit nearly any situation. The ability of a zoom lens to effectively alter the angle of view without increasing the overall size is precious for achieving more efficient and compact setups.
When you use zoom lenses, you get to have a range of creative freedom while keeping your subject in focus. With zoom lenses, not only do you have the most versatility, but you get to be less dependent on switching between lenses.
● A Continuous Autofocus:
You can also change the autofocus mode from Single Point AF-S (Nikon) to Wide-area AF on your DSLR. With this mode, your camera will use all of the autofocus points available within the frame to achieve a better overall focus. For example, if you’re photographing a group of people in a scene, and any of them move unexpectedly, Wide-area AF will better ensure every person is sharp.
What is Candid Videography?
A Candid Video has an exclusive and creative flavour. It is an artistic and personal approach. The Videographer’s job is not just to capture the moments of the event but also the emotions, opinions and thoughts that make the experience meaningful and unforgettable. Candid Videography brings the photos to life. It captures special moments happening all the time and brings them to today’s world. It reveals real emotions and is spontaneous. We can also use candid videos for birthdays, anniversaries, or other special events. Candid Videography is all about the great video with all of the focus on fun instead of posing.
When did candid photography start?
The start of candid photography was in motion pictures during the 1920s. That’s when Dziga Vertov, a director of documentary films, proposed and put into practice the idea of “taking life by surprise.” With the appearance of highly sensitive films and lightweight, noiseless cameras during the 1960s, candid photography became more popular than ever before. Candid photography is a style of photography in which people are caught unaware and, for the most part, unaware that they are being photographed. Candid photography has long been used in films and was the first to be featured on a moving picture. It is usually characterized by unexpected moments in real-time, giving the photo a sense of realism that can’t be achieved through traditional cameras. Henri Cartier-Bresson is considered the master of the art of candid photography. He captured the “decisive moment” in everyday life over several decades.
