Posing for Graduation Photos: Mastering the “Candid Walk”

With my years of experience in portrait photography, there are two things I know I know I’ve mastered: the candid walk and the champagne pop. Blame my years of graduation photo posing, If there’s one thing grads love, it’s strutting in a cap and gown or spraying bubbly on their friends, or in my case, the UCF Reflection Pond.

One of my classic walking photo that honestly almost looks Photoshopped (Yes, I’m that good).

So imagine my surprise when I saw a viral photography tip for candid walking that involved… galloping.

Yes, I tried it — purely for science — during my most recent family session. If fact, it has gone so viral that they actually asked to try it. The results? Let’s just say my method won by a landslide. So, allow me to enlighten you on the actual best way to get that candid walking look.

Cherise’s Tried-and-True Method for Nailing the Candid Walk

1. Pick a clear path with great lighting.

   I love a nice sidewalk surrounded by foliage or a cobblestone street for added texture.

2. Set your hands or props naturally.

   If you’re with someone else, hold hands and stand close — shoulder to shoulder feels the most connected.

3. Put your dominant foot forward and rock.

   Rock gently from your front foot to your back foot. Bonus points if everyone starts with the same foot forward.

4. Switch up your gaze.

   Alternate looking at the camera and at each other.

Why it works:

The rocking motion helps you balance (no awkward tipping into your partner), and it’s just silly enough to spark genuine laughter. Those little flashes of joy are what make the photo feel real — even if we planned every step.

Another classic walk photo by yours truly.

Give it a try, then post your before-and-after shots below! I promise you’ll never go back to the “horse gallop” again.