Catching the Right Moments
As a photographer, it nearly impossible to anticipate when the “right moment” is going to happen when you’re photographing weddings, couples, or any event which includes people in a candid setting. Over time, a photographer may learn to better anticipate when these moments are more likely to happen. However, much is contingent upon spontaneity and being in the right place at the right time with your camera ready to shoot.
While it’s impossible for anyone to document every important detail at an event perfectly, there are certainly ways in which you can learn to be best prepared.
Take a lot of photos - While this may be an obvious, it’s easy to forget if you’re caught up in waiting for the right moment to happen. If you’re waiting for the moment to happen, you’re already going to be too late unless you are photographing.
Many digital cameras have a feature to shoot continuous photography. These features allow capability of taking multiple photos per second. Some high-end digital cameras are able to take up to fourteen photos per second! You can always delete unwanted photos later. It’s better to take too many photos than to not take enough photos.
Be prepared when something new is happening. Get ready when there are changes during a social event - moments when a person is about to make a speech, announcement, or there is a change of pace with what guest are doing next. These are the moments that would be likely to elicit more interesting interactions. People are not focused on what the photographer is doing at this time. It’s easier to get genuine reactions when people are not as conscious of you photographing them.
It’s important to not make someone feel uncomfortable by having them overly conscious that you are photographing them at an event. Some guests don’t mind being photographed. However, Some people tend to act differently or feel a bit unnatural when they know they are being photographed. If a guest is having a great time, you may anticipate a moment when they may have an interesting reaction. This works well if you are able to blend in and not draw attention to yourself. Turning off your flash is a great idea for blending in - if the lighting allows for it.
When you are doing couple’s photography and they are posing, give the couple time to interact with each other. This will help them to feel comfortable by having some fun before the photo is taken. Tell the couple that you will have them look at the camera when you are ready. Before you have them look at the camera, catch some photos of the couple interacting with each other for some natural candid photos and reactions. This will work well for groups and families, as well.
For further related reading, check out Photography Tips – Make Couples Look Natural.
