The word Candid or the style called candid is confused. It usually refers to a picture taken in a spontaneous moment. However, it is often mixed up with the idea of a “snapshot,” where a photographer quickly captures a glimpse of something happening—excited faces on the dance floor or a crowd clapping as a couple is introduced.
A meaningful moment is not determined by a fast finger, but by a mind guided by empathy.
Henri Cartier-Bresson, a master of candid photography, described this idea with his famous phrase, “the decisive moment.” However, what makes a moment decisive still feels mysterious to me. Some may think it is the first kiss during a ceremony, a tear from the bride’s mother, or an unexpected incident. For me, a decisive moment is different. I define it as a moment that brings a story to me—even if that story exists only in my own mind.
I love mirrors. To me, they are like tunnels that reveal different perspectives.
When I took this picture, a thought came to mind—almost as if it were from the bride’s perspective: “I hope his mom can get along with my mom.” Outside the mirror is reality—two mothers sharing a joyful moment together. Inside the mirror is the bride’s quiet happiness.
I am also present in the reflection. I usually avoid showing myself in my photographs, but this time, I’m glad I did. In that moment, I served a simple but meaningful role: a witness.
This photo was taken right after I finished a sunset portrait session with the couple. As soon as we wrapped up, the bride—now in sneakers—joyfully jumped and ran back to the dance floor.I captured the moment with a simple thought in mind: this lovely couple couldn’t wait to begin their next chapter, celebrating their journey of love with each other, surrounded by friends and family.
While I was in the bride’s room, I noticed her cat slowly approaching the bridal accessories I had arranged. Playfully, I imagined the scene from the cat’s perspective: “What’s happening to my human? Is she having a party tonight?”
I love having animals at weddings. They are unpredictable, and their presence brings out unexpected emotions in the people around them. They don’t speak, yet they spark the imagination in ways words often cannot.
I have to admit, I waited behind the guitarist for a while, quietly watching the couple. I was anticipating something—an unspoken moment about to unfold. After a long day, the party paused for a break. The band played soft, soothing music, and the atmosphere felt just right—something gentle, almost romantic, waiting to happen. The moment itself was brief. Still, I found myself wishing the guitarist had lifted his instrument just a little higher, so it could be more visible in my frame.I’ve also noticed an interesting moment during many ceremonies. After the first dance, when the couple returns to their sweetheart table, the groom often leans in to kiss the bride. It’s quick and casual, but to me, it carries a quiet sentiment—something intimate and real.
This thought came to me as I took the picture:
As the busy world keeps moving, my love remains still.
With that idea in mind, I slowed down my shutter speed, allowing the passing pedestrians to blur into motion—like flowing water.
Is this candid? The first look was planned. The location on the street was planned. But the contrast between their embrace and the rushing crowd—that felt decisive.
Two perspectives came together in that moment, forming a story shaped by empathy.