4 ways to photograph kisses without getting awkward photos

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iStock 000005202212Small image This is one of the most common problems for many photographers, especially event shooters. It’s a very tempting moment to capture because of the emotion that is usually involved, but it doesn’t always make a good photo moment. I think a lot of you know by now, that even with the intention of a good photograph, you are likely to come up with a snapshot of near-makeouts or fish lips.

Here are a few ways to capture a kiss and get a good photo at the same time.

First of all, if you want to capture the beauty of the moment, you have to understand that there is nothing wrong with a bit of direction.

Make people laugh

Humor can work wonders if you know how to use it in a moment like this. Ask the two to crack a joke as they lean in. Look for that close, intimate smile, just before the kiss happens. It might even turn into a full blown laugh, which is also a good shot to grab.

Don’t always go for the lip on lip action

The best moment from a kiss is not the actual kiss; it’s the moment right before it happens. It may sound very emotional and stuff, but if you do it a few times, you’ll realize it makes a better shot then the French part of the business. The moment right after the kiss is also good photographic material. Ask the couple to hug and kiss a few times in between. It might seem a bit odd, especially right in the beginning, but that won’t last long. You just need to make sure you pay attention to every detail because you probably won’t get it right from the first kiss.

Give them their space

I think this should go without saying, yet I see so many wide angle shots of kisses. I wonder how those people must have felt. Probably in the lines of:” this photographer is kind of offensive. Oh wait, we’re paying him too. Might as well hope he gets the shots”. It shouldn’t be like that, especially if it’s on the wedding day, but I wouldn’t use a very close approach at an engagement session either. Put yourself in their shoes and you’ll come to realize that intimacy requires some space. Use a medium to long telephoto lens, and try to get some of the background as well. When shooting formal kisses, like those of family members congratulating the bride it’s also best to keep your distance, although for the record, I try to stay away from those shots all together.

Direct

Don’t be afraid to give indications. Think of it this way: there will be times, quite a few actually, when letting things have their natural course will turn your photos into small disasters worthy of sites like Awkward Family photos. Have some courage and let them know if the kiss is too sloppy or if it looks like they\re kissing a statue.

Also Read: 41 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULDN’T DATE A PHOTOGRAPHER

Recommended Reading:

4 ways to photograph kisses without getting awkward photos

Make people laugh

Don’t always go for the lip on lip action

Give them their space

Direct