Candid photography captures moments as they happen—raw, unposed, and full of life. Whether you’re using cutting-edge camera drones to capture beautiful landscapes or classic camera film for a photo shoot, the right equipment can make a world of difference in the quality of your shots. If you are travelling for a photo shoot and taking your fur baby with you, then make sure to get the puppy vaccination on time and maybe take some sessions related to puppy training in Perth or in a location nearby to get used to taking pictures with them. Sometimes, puppies can be camera-shy. Always keep in mind that the key to great candid photography isn’t just about having the right tools, though—it’s about understanding timing, light, and composition to create pictures that truly tell a story.
The best candid shots are often unplanned. One of the easiest ways to get these natural shots is by staying in the background and blending in. People tend to act differently when they’re aware of a camera, so try to stay as unobtrusive as possible. If you’re photographing your dog during a training session, for instance, remain on the sidelines, focusing on their interaction with the trainer. This will help you capture their natural expressions, whether they’re learning a new trick or just enjoying a moment of play.
A good candid photographer knows when to press the shutter button. Often, the magic happens in fleeting moments—someone’s laugh, a child’s glance, or a dog’s wagging tail. Being ready to snap the photo at just the right moment is crucial. One way to ensure you never miss these moments is by using continuous shooting mode. This feature, found in most digital cameras, allows you to take a burst of photos in rapid succession. This way, you’re more likely to capture that perfect candid shot, even if it’s just for a split second. For instance, when photographing a dog at the park, you may only have a brief moment to catch them mid-action—whether they’re running or jumping. A burst shot gives you several frames to choose from, ensuring you get that perfect candid expression.
Another secret to great candid photography is paying attention to light. Natural light is usually your best friend when it comes to candid shots. Early morning or late afternoon provides soft, diffused light, which is flattering for portraits and adds warmth to your photos. For those shooting indoors, positioning your subject near a window can create beautiful, natural lighting that brings out the details without being harsh. However, when you’re capturing candid moments outside, the light can change quickly. The key is to adjust your camera settings accordingly—if the light is too bright, use your camera’s settings to underexpose the shot slightly, or if it’s too dark, increase the ISO or use a wider aperture. These adjustments can help you capture clear, vibrant images even in challenging lighting conditions.
Composition is another critical element in candid photography. While candid shots tend to be more relaxed, good composition can elevate them. The rule of thirds is a basic technique that can instantly make your shots more interesting. Imagine you’re photographing your puppy during a training session. By positioning them slightly off-centre, you allow for more dynamic space in the frame, which makes the image feel less staged and more natural. It’s also important to consider the background in your photos. A cluttered or distracting background can detract from your subject, so always take a moment to assess the surroundings before you press the shutter button. This is particularly important when photographing pets, as they often move quickly, and you don’t always have the time to reposition them.
While we live in a digital age where everyone has a camera in their pocket, one might wonder if the traditional camera film still has a place in candid photography. The answer is yes—if you’re looking for something unique. Film photography forces you to slow down, focus on the moment, and really consider each shot. Since you can’t see the result immediately, there’s an element of surprise and delight when you get the photos developed. This makes the process more intentional, often resulting in some of the most beautiful and genuine candid shots. The grainy, soft quality of film often adds a nostalgic, organic feel to your candid photos, making them stand out in a digital world.
In the age of social media, there’s a tendency to over-edit photos, but candid shots are best left untouched. While editing can improve the exposure or sharpness of a photo, the beauty of candid photography lies in its authenticity. Don’t overthink it—let the photos speak for themselves. This is particularly true when capturing candid moments with pets or family. The natural imperfections and spontaneous nature of these images are what make them so compelling.
Always remember that patience is the key to great photography. Don’t rush the process. Great candid photos are the result of time spent observing and waiting for the right moment. Whether you’re capturing your puppy’s first day at the park or a family celebration, let the moment unfold naturally, and be ready to snap that shot when it feels right. Photography is not just about technical skills but about telling a story, and the best stories are often the ones that are unplanned.
