Candid Headshots & How To Use Them

If you are looking to use imagery of yourself or your team for your business, but don’t want it to look overly posed, you may be considering the idea of candid portraits.

What exactly is a candid portrait?

A candid moment is typically when a person is photographed without being aware of the photo being taken. A true candid photograph is a natural, unposed moment that is true and genuine.

For the purpose of headshot, business and corporate photography (and other milestone photography occasions like family portraiture), candid photography is less true to this.

How we create candid moments in business photography:

A lot of people request candid portraits to use for their business, as it shows a natural impression of what they do. While a corporate headshot has it’s place, not every image needs to be formal and looking at the camera.

So how do we create a ‘candid’ image if we know the photos are being taken? 
As a photographer, my approach is guided. I’ll have an individual or a team do an action (as prompted by myself) and capture away. Whilst the subject is aware of the camera, they are generally in movement, which gives that candid feel.

How & Where To Use Candid Portraits In Your Business:

As discussed above, a candid portrait is a wonderful illustrative way to showcase who you are and what you do. Photography helps create connection and trust, and also helps you stand out from the crowd.

You should be using your portraits across all your marketing channels. Most popular would be social media posts across Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Consider your website, and think about what types of images will assist on the various pages to help illustrate what you do. You may wish to arrange for clients (or models acting as clients) to showcase your wonderful team interacting with customers. 

If you have hired a professional photographer and have the licensing rights for print, you can consider using your candid headshots across brochures, flyers, and even advertising boards.