Candid Asheville Engagement Photography
Picture this: you’re laughing with your partner, sharing an inside joke, or stealing a quiet moment together, and all of it is captured in a way that feels raw, real, and you. That’s the magic of candid engagement photography.
As your photographer, I believe your engagement photos should reflect your individual love story — the unspoken language you’ve built, the energy you share, the little details that make your relationship the special bond that it is.
With its breathtaking landscapes and endless natural beauty, Asheville is the perfect backdrop for an engagement session — and I can’t wait to help you capture your love story here.
In this guide, I’ll share why candid engagement photography is the ultimate way to celebrate your love and how I can help create images you’ll treasure forever.
What Is Candid Engagement Photography?
Candid engagement photography is all about capturing real, unscripted moments. Unlike posed photography, candid photography focuses on the little in-between moments: the shared laughter, a loving glance, or that unexpected burst of playfulness. These are the moments that truly represent your relationship.
Why Include Candid Photography in Your Engagement Session?
Instead of worrying about “smiling for the camera,” you get to focus on enjoying the moment with your partner. The result? Photos that look and feel like you.
Posed photos can be beautiful, but candid shots capture the dynamic elements of your relationship. They’re full of emotion and personality. I also love to photograph movement, so expect to be walking, possibly dancing, and definitely moving around a bit.
Many couples feel nervous in front of the camera. During a candid session, we’ll create a relaxed atmosphere so you can just be yourselves. I love to start couples off in creative poses, and then capture the candid moments that naturally unfold in between.
What to Expect with a Candid Photography Style
As your photographer, I want you to feel completely comfortable. Here’s how I ensure your candid engagement shoot is as fun and stress-free as possible:
1. Getting to Know You Before the Shoot
I always make time for a video chat (or coffee!) with couples before their session. This helps me understand your story, your personalities, and your vision. It also helps me plan the location, look, and feel of the shoot, with the goal to truly reflect your love.
2. Creating Comfortable Moments
My secret skill? Making you forget the camera is even there. The goal is to make your session feel like a hangout, whether it’s in your home or out wandering in the woods. I’ll give you simple prompts or ask questions that encourage real interactions. This creates a fun experience, often full of laughter that makes for unforgettable photos.
3. Finding the Perfect Backdrop
Asheville is full of stunning locations, from the iconic Blue Ridge Mountains to vibrant urban spots around town. Whether you want nature views or cozy, intimate settings, I’ll help you pick a location that feels right for your relationship. This could include your favorite local coffee shop, a trail that leads to breathtaking mountain vistas, or your own backyard. Depend on the vibe you want, we’ll plan accordingly.
What to Expect During a Candid Engagement Session
Wondering what your session will look like? Here’s a sneak peek at how I work.
Before the Session
- Chat About Your Vision: We’ll talk about your style, favorite activities, and what moments are most important to you.
- Choose a Location: Whether it’s a mountaintop, your favorite brewery, or a cozy park, we’ll pick a spot that’s meaningful to you.
During the Session
- Relax and Have Fun: I’ll guide you with poses that feel natural and unforced. Don’t worry about the posing — I have an editorial background, and will make sure your shoot feels equal parts creative and comfortable! I also focus on capturing the little moments that unfold organically in between.
- Capture a Variety of Shots: From playful interactions to quiet, intimate moments, I’ll document the full range of the experience.
After the Session
- Sneak Peek: Within a few days, I often send a sneak peek of a few photos because I know you’ll be excited to see them!
- Editing and Delivery: Your final gallery will be include a range of edited photos that are ready to download, print, and share.
Why Candid Photography Captures the Best Memories
Candid photos are timeless. They take you back to the exact moment — the way you felt, the laughter you shared, and the love that brought you together. Here are just a few reasons why I love candid engagement photography:
It’s Emotional
Candid photos capture the laughs, the tender touches, the soft “I love you’s”. It’s not uncommon for couples to tell me that they teared up after looking through their gallery because the photos captured the true spirit of their relationship and the moment.
It Showcases Your Connection
Every relationship is different, and candid photos seek to highlight the beauty of your individual connection. From your inside jokes to the way you naturally hold hands, candid shots capture a glimpse of your story.
It’s Personal (and Perfect for Sharing with Friends and Family!)
Candid photos stand out because they feel so personal. And those are the best photos for Save-the-Dates, wedding websites, and simply just sharing with loved ones.
Ready to Tell Your Story?
An engagement shoot offers a time to simply slow down and celebrate the love you share with your partner. This moment not only offers a fun bonding experience but also helps you become more comfortable in front of the camera in a relaxed setting, naturally preparing you for your big day.
Whether you’re dreaming of a mountain adventure, a cozy cabin vibe, or a themed shoot that showcases the personality of your relationship, I’d love to help you create photos that capture your love story in the most authentic way.
Reach out today to book your session, and let’s make it happen. I’d be honored to help you tell your story. Get in touch.