Introduction -Wedding Planner Insight on Candid Photography
By Jaspreet Soni
Weddings are among the happiest moments of a person's life. There’s magic in the air, surrounded by loved ones, lively music, dancing, stunning outfits, beautiful décor, and delicious food. Once the celebrations conclude, what remains are memories captured in photographs and wedding films, reminding the couple of the joy and emotions of their special day. Capturing these moments authentically, just as they unfolded, is why candid photography has gained such popularity among couples. We spoke with several young and dynamic candid photographers to understand why this profession is in the spotlight and explore the rewards and challenges they face.
Ankita and Akash - Wedding Nama (Mumbai) | Wedding Planner Perspective
Ankita Asthana shares, “After completing my bachelor's in architecture, I pursued a post-graduation in photography at NID, Ahmedabad. This decision felt natural as my family has always been passionate about photography. I grew up traveling to beautiful forests, always with a camera in hand. After NID, I initially worked in architectural, travel, and product photography but felt something was missing. I loved the emotional depth weddings offered, so when I shot a friend's wedding, and her friends appreciated the photos online, wedding assignments started coming in.”
Source: WeddingSutra
Challenges According to Wedding Photographers
Ankita adds, “Starting a photography career without a strong support system is tough due to the early challenges—both monetary and creative. A photographer must balance being a businessperson and an artist, managing clients professionally to deliver the best. My then-boyfriend, now-husband Akash Agarwal, was a great support. His corporate experience helped us manage clients better and build a well-organized setup for our business.”
Rishabh Sood - CandidTales (Delhi NCR) | Wedding Planner View
Rishabh says, “I was working as a Creative Head for an Automobile Publication before moving into wedding photography. What drew me in were the emotions tied to a wedding. Every time I shoot one, I connect with new people and often get to explore new places. This excitement drives me to take on each new assignment.”
Source: WeddingSutra
Challenges According to Wedding Photographers
“One of the biggest challenges we face is dealing with guests who have cameras. People love taking pictures these days, which can become a distraction. Another challenge is clients expecting a lot for the best price. Managing expectations while evolving as a photographer is key.”
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Divya and Debashish - SutraSnapperz (Hyderabad) | Wedding Planner Approved Adaptability
Divya shares, “Capturing someone’s special day is an incredible experience, and we love being surrounded by happy faces. Plus, traveling for work is something we really enjoy, and it helps that we get paid for it.”
Source: WeddingSutra
Challenges According to Wedding Photographers
“Outdoor weddings, especially at night, present challenges with lighting conditions. Unlike other photo shoots where everything can be planned, wedding photographers need to be adaptable and prepared for anything.”
Aditya Marathe and Aditya Mahagaonkar - WhatKnot (Mumbai)
Aditya explains, “Both of us began our careers in corporate consulting. One of us worked as an IT consultant for a major firm, while the other handled consumer insights for large FMCG companies. Our transition into wedding photography was gradual. We shot our first wedding for a friend in 2012, received positive feedback, and slowly moved into it full-time by 2015.”
Source: WeddingSutra
Challenges According to Wedding Photographers
“Though many couples now seek candid photographers, awareness of this style is still growing. Sometimes wedding guests expect us to take posed shots, but we handle such requests with ease. Photography requires not just creativity but also strong people, organization, and execution skills. The job also involves managing deadlines during peak season and coordinating with various teams, which can be challenging.”
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Rohan Mishra (Chennai) | Wedding Planner Endorsed Technical Excellence
Rohan says, “I’m a Mechanical Engineer by profession, and photography wasn’t even on my radar. However, my wife Puja, noticing my love for photography, gifted me my first DSLR. That changed everything. After gaining recognition for my nature photography, I wanted to explore people photography, and weddings seemed the perfect opportunity. Combining my interest in lighting techniques with Puja’s expertise in advertising and styling, we created ‘Rohan Mishra Photography.’”
Source: WeddingSutra
Challenges According to Wedding Photographers
“A wedding photographer has to master various styles and adapt to changing lighting conditions. We often work at odd hours, and since weddings can't be recreated, we must always be at our best. This demands both mental and physical resilience. The rise of digital cameras and smartphones has created a mindset where many think ‘anyone can do it,’ but true photography requires transforming touching moments into timeless memories, which only an ‘artist’ can accomplish.”
Robin Saini (Pune) | Wedding Planner Business Insight
Robin explains, “I spent nine years in corporate marketing before getting into wedding photography. I’ve always loved pushing boundaries, and my passion for photography grew over time. Encouraged by friends and social media, I eventually left my corporate job to pursue photography full-time. My wife Jass, who worked as a designer, joined me, and it was the best decision. Having a business partner who can handle shooting, coordination, and logistics is invaluable.”
Source: WeddingSutra
Challenges According to Wedding Photographers
“The market can be price-sensitive, but clients who understand the value of capturing lifelong memories are willing to invest in photographers they trust. We often deal with unforeseen challenges—shooting in less-than-ideal locations or adjusting schedules—but the true test of a photographer is to create magic despite these limitations.”
Source: WeddingSutra
This blog reflects conversations and experiences from 2015, and all the events discussed have already occurred.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is candid wedding photography, and why is it popular among couples?
Candid wedding photography captures spontaneous moments during a wedding without posing the subjects. It's popular because it reflects genuine emotions, telling the story of the couple’s special day as it naturally unfolds. Couples appreciate the authenticity and realness these photos bring, compared to traditional posed images.
2. What are the main challenges candid photographers face during weddings?
Candid photographers face several challenges, including unpredictable lighting conditions, managing distractions from guests with cameras, and working within tight timelines. They must also balance client expectations, be adaptable, and stay creative while capturing unique moments in constantly changing environments.
3. How do candid photographers manage client expectations and budget concerns?
Photographers often face clients wanting numerous photography services at the best price. Clear communication is essential to set realistic expectations. Professionals help clients understand the value of high-quality candid photography and work within budget constraints, ensuring a balance between affordability and artistry.
4. What qualities should a candid wedding photographer possess?
A good candid photographer must have strong creative instincts, excellent people skills, and the ability to adapt to various lighting and environmental conditions. Organizational skills and the ability to manage deadlines are crucial, especially during the busy wedding season, to ensure timely delivery of the final product.
