Candid vs. Plandid

Attribute	Candid	Plandid
Definition	Unposed, natural photos	Planned, staged photos
Spontaneity	Emphasizes spontaneity	Less emphasis on spontaneity
Authenticity	Seen as more authentic	May appear less authentic
Posing	Minimal to no posing	More posing involved
Setting	Usually in everyday settings	May involve carefully chosen settings

Introduction

In the age of social media, the way we present ourselves online has become increasingly important. Two popular styles of photography that have emerged are Candid and Plandid. While both styles aim to capture natural moments, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the differences between Candid and Plandid photography.

Definition

Candid photography is all about capturing spontaneous moments without any posing or staging. The subjects are often unaware of the camera, resulting in authentic and unfiltered images. On the other hand, Plandid photography is a combination of planned and candid shots. The subjects are aware of the camera, but the poses and settings are meant to look natural and effortless.

Authenticity

One of the key differences between Candid and Plandid photography is the level of authenticity. Candid photos are prized for their genuine and unposed nature. They capture raw emotions and real-life moments that cannot be replicated. Plandid photos, on the other hand, may appear natural but are often staged to some extent. While they can still convey a sense of authenticity, they may lack the spontaneity of Candid shots.

Posing

In Candid photography, posing is minimal or nonexistent. The subjects are captured in their natural state, going about their daily lives without any direction from the photographer. This results in images that feel organic and unscripted. In Plandid photography, posing plays a more significant role. While the poses are meant to look effortless, they are often planned and directed by the photographer. This can give the photos a more polished and curated feel.

Setting

Another difference between Candid and Plandid photography is the setting. Candid photos are typically taken in real-life environments, such as streets, parks, or homes. The background is often uncontrolled, adding to the authenticity of the image. Plandid photos, on the other hand, are often taken in carefully curated settings. The background is chosen to complement the subject and enhance the overall aesthetic of the photo.

Emotion

Emotion plays a crucial role in both Candid and Plandid photography. Candid photos excel at capturing genuine emotions and expressions. The subjects are caught in the moment, allowing their true feelings to shine through. Plandid photos, while more staged, can still convey emotion effectively. The poses and settings are designed to evoke a specific mood or feeling, adding depth to the image.

Spontaneity

Spontaneity is a defining characteristic of Candid photography. The beauty of Candid shots lies in their unpredictability and naturalness. The photographer must be quick to capture fleeting moments as they happen. Plandid photography, while aiming for a natural look, lacks the same level of spontaneity. The poses and settings are predetermined, making it a more controlled and deliberate process.

Composition

Composition is another area where Candid and Plandid photography differ. Candid photos often have a more relaxed and informal composition. The focus is on capturing the moment rather than adhering to strict rules of composition. Plandid photos, on the other hand, may follow more traditional compositional guidelines. The photographer has more control over the framing and positioning of the subjects, resulting in a more polished final image.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Candid and Plandid photography offer unique approaches to capturing moments and emotions. While Candid photos excel at authenticity and spontaneity, Plandid photos provide a more curated and polished look. Both styles have their merits, and the choice between them ultimately depends on the desired outcome and aesthetic. Whether you prefer the rawness of Candid shots or the controlled nature of Plandid photos, both styles have something special to offer in the world of photography.