Candid vs. posed photos

Street photographers often have to make quick decisions about whether to capture candid or posed shots. Candid shots are unplanned and spontaneous, and are taken without the subject’s knowledge or consent. Posed shots, on the other hand, are planned and arranged, and involve the subject’s participation and consent. Candid shots are often associated with street photography, as they capture the raw and unguarded moments of everyday life. 

They can reveal the human condition and the emotions and behaviors of people in public spaces. Candid shots are often spontaneous and require a sense of timing and anticipation from the photographer. 

For example, the following photograph by Henri Cartier-Bresson is a classic candid shot that captures a spontaneous and unplanned moment: In “The Decisive Moment,” Cartier-Bresson captures a man jumping over a puddle on a Paris street. The photograph is candid, as the man was not aware of the photographer’s presence and the moment was not planned or posed. The photograph is also a great example of the concept of the “decisive moment,” which refers to the peak of action and emotion in a scene. 

Posed shots, on the other hand, involve the subject’s participation and consent. They can be more controlled and staged, and can be used to convey a particular message or theme. Posed shots can be useful for street photographers who want to create more stylized and artistic images.

For example, the following photograph by Bruce Gilden is a posed shot that was arranged and planned by the photographer: In “Coney Island,” Gilden captures a man wearing a clown suit and holding a balloon animal. The photograph is posed, as the man was aware of the photographer’s presence and agreed to be photographed. The photograph is also a great example of Gilden’s confrontational and in-your-face style, as the man is looking directly at the camera and the balloon animal is almost blocking the view of his face. 

Both candid and posed shots have their place in street photography, and the choice between the two depends on the photographer’s intentions and the context of the scene. Some photographers may prefer candid shots for their authenticity and spontaneity, while others may prefer posed shots for their artistic value and control. As a Street photographer you should consider the pros and cons of both candid and posed shots, and choose the approach that best fits your goals and vision.

 It is also important for street photographers to respect the privacy and consent of their subjects, be aware that in every place and country where photographs are taken there are different laws and different cultural conventions that can affect the photo process, and to be aware of the ethical considerations involved in both types of shots.