When planning a family photo session, one big decision is choosing between candid vs. posed family photos. This choice can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Let’s get right into the differences between these two styles and why most of the families I work with get to enjoy the the best of both worlds (that’s right, you actually don’t have to pick between the two!).
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Candid family photos capture those spontaneous, unscripted moments. These images show your family interacting naturally, from genuine belly laughs to quiet, shared glances. These are typically the moments that happen in between the posed shots—like your kids playing together or the look of love between parents. These raw, authentic emotions are what make candid photography so special. It’s all about freezing those real-life memories, and these end up being the photos that often tell a deeper story about your family’s unique bond.
As a family photographer, I love incorporating candid shots in my sessions because they show families at their most comfortable and joyful. But, while candid photos are incredible, they aren’t the ONLY photos you should want during your session. Posed shots are equally important for creating those classic, timeless family portraits. Let’s talk about those next!
Posed photos are more structured and intentional. These are the moments where I carefully arrange everyone, making sure each person is visible, whether smiling at the camera or posed in another way to showcase the group. They tend to be more formal (and maybe a little less fun to take, but I promise there will be lots of laughs in between!). In my opinion, posed photos are still an essential part of any family photo session. Think of these as the images you’ll want to hang on your walls or include in holiday cards. They’re perfect for showing off your beautiful family, perfectly coordinated and looking their best!
During our Nashville family photo session, I like to guide families through each moment. My goal is to ensure everyone stays relaxed and enjoys the session. I know when you look at those photos, you’ll remember how you felt while taking them. I want to make that as enjoyable as possible for you.
One common myth in family photography is that people “only want candid photos” because they feel more authentic. That is, until they actually get their gallery back! Because the truth is, both candid and posed photos have their place. Posed photos provide the clean, beautiful, and well-composed images that are perfect for framing or sending to relatives. On the other hand, while candid photos capture the heart of your family’s interactions and personalities. How can you possibly choose? If you only have candid photos in your gallery, it can be hard to choose something that you’ll want to hang on the wall (or make your new Facebook cover photo, if you’re into that!).
When you book a session with me, you won’t need to choose between the two styles—I blend candid and posed photography to give you a diverse gallery. From capturing your little ones’ playful energy to creating that perfect family portrait, you get the best of both worlds!
Family photos can sometimes feel stressful, especially when young kids are involved. I totally get it! I have two littles of my own. But one of my goals during every session is to make the experience enjoyable for everyone, especially the little ones.
I’ll guide your family into natural, comfortable poses and keep things moving smoothly. For candid shots, I engage kids with fun activities to keep them entertained. This mix ensures a lively session and joyful, authentic photos.
Another great reason to blend posed and candid photography is for extended family photos. While organizing a large group can take a bit more time, it’s so worth it to capture those precious, once-in-a-lifetime moments with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. These gatherings are rare, and getting everyone together for a portrait is a perfect way to celebrate your family’s legacy. That’s just the truth.
If it’s been a while since your extended family had professional photos taken, now is the perfect time to book a session. Don’t wait for the “right” moment, because capturing memories with the people who matter most is priceless. I would love to help!
Family photography is an investment in your memories (and if you’ve read this far, I’m guessing you know that!). As a Nashville family photographer, I’ve had the honor of working with so many wonderful families to preserve their stories through both candid and posed photography. I believe every family deserves to see themselves in beautiful, professional images that will last for generations.
Whether it’s been a while since your last session or you’re planning an extended family shoot, now’s the perfect time to book. Contact me here to learn more and check my availability. By blending candid and posed shots, we’ll create a gallery that reflects your family’s unique beauty. I’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure a stress-free, fun experience.
Dolly DeLong is a Nashville-based family & newborn photographer AND a creative business owner who educates other creative business owners on systems, SOPs, and workflows. Dolly loves serving families with her bold, elevated, and radiant photography. She also loves educating other creative business owners on how to set up systems and workflows to help them save time in their businesses. She produces weekly blog posts, podcast episodes on The Systems & Workflow Magic Podcast, and weekly YouTube Episodes.
She has a heart for serving the larger business community. Dolly shares her knowledge of launching, Email Marketing, and Business Systems with new creative business owners and family photographers in an encouraging and supportive way because she believes anyone can find joy in systems, workflows, and SOPS! Plus, BONUS: Systems are where the magic happens!
Dolly’s faith and love for her family motivate her to help other business owners find the joy and freedom she’s seen in running a successful small business.
Whenever she has a spare moment, she enjoys watching TV (i.e., Survivor), loves eating way too many sweets, and listens to podcasts while running or walking. Fill out her contact form to work with Dolly DeLong Photography for a family photography session.
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[…] fun interactions you have when you’re just hanging out together. If you’re wondering whether candids or posed photos are best for your family shoot, the answer is […]