I get asked this question a lot.

Candid photography, a term that resonates with the art of capturing life as it is, unposed and unpretentious. It's a style that has been embraced by photographers who aim to preserve the authenticity of a moment, to tell a story that's real and raw. The essence of candid photography lies in its ability to freeze a genuine expression, an unguarded moment, or the simplicity of everyday life.

The beauty of candid photography is that it doesn't interrupt the natural flow of events. It's about being a silent observer, a fly on the wall that witnesses life without altering its course. This genre of photography is often associated with street photography, where the city becomes a canvas and the people, unknowingly, are the subjects of a visual narrative. It's about finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, the laughter in a crowd, or the contemplation in a stranger's gaze.

Candid photography requires a unique blend of skills. It's not just about having a good eye for composition or the right technical know-how; it's also about having the intuition to anticipate moments before they unfold. A candid photographer must master the art of invisibility, blending into the background to capture people in their most natural state. It's about patience, timing, and sometimes, a bit of luck.

In the digital age, candid photography has found new avenues. With the ubiquity of smartphones, everyone has the potential to capture candid moments. Social media platforms have become galleries for these spontaneous snapshots of life. Yet, the principles remain the same – to photograph honestly and to present a perspective that's unaltered by the photographer's presence.

For those looking to delve into the world of candid photography, here are a few tips:

- Be observant and ready. The perfect moment can come and go in the blink of an eye.

- Respect your subjects. While candid photography often involves taking photos without explicit permission, it's important to be considerate and respectful.

- Understand the light. Natural light is a candid photographer's best friend. It can add mood and depth to your images.

- Practice discretion. A smaller camera or a smartphone can be less intimidating than a large DSLR, making it easier to capture candid shots.

Candid photography is more than just a technique; it's a philosophy. It's about embracing imperfection, celebrating spontaneity, and appreciating the beauty of the unscripted. Whether it's a stolen glance, a burst of laughter, or a quiet reflection, candid photography has the power to immortalize the fleeting moments that make life beautiful.

For those interested in exploring, Dive in, and you might just find that the most memorable shots are the ones you never planned.