Why Candid and Editorial Photography Aren’t Opposites After All


I’ve been photographing for 14 years—seven of those as a wedding photographer. Over time, I’ve learned how to read people well and anticipate those once-in-a-lifetime moments that happen in an instant. That instinct helps me capture the candid, unposed moments couples treasure most. But I also appreciate the power of a well-composed, intentional portrait. I believe strongly that documentary and editorial photography don’t have to exist at odds. It’s not black and white—it’s yin and yang. When blended thoughtfully, the result is a wedding gallery that feels both real and timeless.

a bride at the orange county courthouse snuggling up in the elevator as hard flash flood over them
A newly married couple shares a romantic embrace outdoors while holding a pink and white bouquet.

The Truth About Candid Photography


Documentary-style photography isn’t always easy for guests to embrace. We live in a world where most people are hyper-aware of cameras—every lens becomes an opportunity to showcase their "online persona." But real moments happen when people forget they’re being watched. That’s where I come in—and where candid photography shines.


My job is to blend in and capture the little, unscripted moments that make the day uniquely yours. Maybe it’s a flower girl pouting as she waits for her turn down the aisle, or someone applying deodorant last-minute before getting dressed—yes, I’ve captured that too (and it was hilarious). These aren’t just random snapshots—they’re the in-between moments that add context, character, and truth to your wedding story.


A wedding party in white dresses stands on grass outdoors holding vibrant floral bouquets in the sunlight.
A joyful black and white candid moment between two people laughing and interacting at a social gathering.

Why Editorial Photography Still Matters


Some couples worry that posed photos will feel stiff or unnatural—and I get that. Not everyone loves being in front of the camera. But here’s the thing: editorial photography isn’t about forcing awkward smiles or robotic poses. It’s about slowing down, creating intention, and making space for portraits that feel elevated but still true to you.


These images become the visual anchors of your wedding gallery—the ones you frame, print, and come back to for years. A great editorial portrait doesn’t erase who you are; it highlights it with a little more structure, composition, and care.


Even if you’re not big on posing (anxious or awkward) , a few guided moments go a long way. With the right direction, they can still feel relaxed, natural, and completely authentic—just with a touch more polish. I’ve worked with all kinds of couples, including the shyest and most camera-averse—and helping them feel at ease is something I take pride in. With a calm approach, a bit of humor, and a lot of patience, I create space where you can feel comfortable just being yourself.



Two people share an intimate moment outdoors during a winter wedding, with one wearing a white fur wrap and formal attire.
A couple shares a romantic moment under a Spanish moss draped oak tree at sunset in a dreamy meadow setting.

The Blend That Tells the Full Story


A wedding day moves in waves. There are high-energy moments full of chaos and laughter, and slower, quieter stretches where everything feels still. Candid photography lives in those in-between spaces—unposed, unfiltered, real. It captures the little glances, the unexpected tears, the fleeting expressions that no one else sees.


Editorial photography steps in when the moment calls for intention. It brings focus. It slows time just enough to create something timeless—those beautifully composed portraits that reflect not just what you looked like, but who you are together.


You don’t have to choose both. But when you do, your gallery tells a more complete story. One that balances raw emotion with thoughtful composition. One that honors the real moments and elevates them.


That’s the style I’ve worked hard to build—blending editorial direction with a documentary heart. So whether you’re camera-shy or fully at ease, you can trust that your story will be told honestly, beautifully, and with care.

A stunning white wedding dress with a long flowing train photographed in a garden setting with bamboo and sunlit trees.
Dancing figure in a white dress holding a decorative fan outdoors in a sunlit garden setting.
A bride in a classic white wedding gown and veil poses at a enzos on the lake bar with glasses and bottles in the background.
A bright interior room with wooden floors and white walls, showing a casual gathering of people at small tables.
A wedding couple stands on terracotta stairs against a white Mediterranean-style building surrounded by lush greenery.
A couple in wedding attire holding a flowing white dress train on a garden path in front of a Spanish style villa.
Elegant figure in a flowing white gown with high slit holding a cocktail at enzos on the lake
Wedding guests laughing and enjoying dinner at a reception table decorated with white floral centerpieces.
Elegant wedding table with blue runner and bride at a bright sunlit reception venue.
Romantic close-up of a couple with flowing veil caught in golden sunlight.
Elegant wedding celebration at a waterfront venue with a dock and tropical landscaping on a sunny day at enzos on the lake
Three celebrants in formal dresses share an intimate embrace during a special occasion.
Someone in an elegant white wedding gown gets help with final dress adjustments in a bright room with colorful artwork.
A pale yellow bridesmaid dress with text reading 'It's me I'm the maid of honor It's me' photographed in natural light.
Couple shares romantic moment at sunset on brick pathway near waterfront with tall tree and garden setting.
Two people share a special moment in a lush garden setting with a stone pathway and green lawn on a sunny day at enzos on the lake.
Guests watch a celebration in a sunlit reception venue with exposed wooden beams and elegant table settings.
In a sunny outdoor setting, two people share a special moment on brick steps, with one wearing a white wedding gown.
A bride in a white gown takes a selfie while seated at a table decorated with yellow flower arrangements.
A raised middle finger gestures in black and white at a busy dining table scene with people eating in the background.