By Raghav | |
How I Found Beauty in 10 Candid Moments This August
August 5, 2026, was an overcast day in Chennai. I had planned a casual outing to the bustling streets of Mylapore, hoping to practice my candid photography. As I roamed the vibrant lanes, I stumbled across a group of children flying kites, their laughter echoing against the backdrop of the ancient Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Capturing that moment reminded me why I fell in love with photography in the first place — the raw, unfiltered emotions that can be frozen in time. This month, I found captivating moments that told stories without words, and I want to share those experiences with you.
The Joy of Unplanned Discoveries
Candid Moments with Families at Marina Beach
On August 12, I decided to head to Marina Beach during the golden hour — just as the sun began to dip below the horizon. Armed with my Nikon D850 and a 50mm f/1.8 lens, I set out to capture the everyday beauty of life by the sea. The beach was alive with families enjoying the last sun rays of the day. I spotted a couple of children chasing the waves, their feet splashing in the shallow water.
With a shutter speed of 1/1000s, f/2.8 aperture, and ISO set at 200, I snapped a series of shots as they jumped in delight. One particular shot of a boy with his arms outstretched, laughing as a wave crashed at his feet turned out to be a favorite. The joy on his face was infectious. This moment taught me the importance of being patient and waiting for the right expression to emerge.
An Unexpected Encounter in Nungambakkam
Fast forward to August 14, I found myself in Nungambakkam at a quaint little café. I was waiting for a client meeting, and while I sipped my filter coffee, I observed a couple sitting by the window, engrossed in a deep conversation. The way they leaned in towards each other, their expressions shifting from joy to contemplation, was too beautiful to ignore.
I quickly switched to my Canon EOS R5 with a 24-70mm f/2.8 lens, adjusting my settings to a shutter speed of 1/500s, f/4, and ISO 400. I captured a candid shot of them laughing, which spoke volumes about their connection. It reminded me that beauty often lies in moments we least expect.
Beauty in Everyday Life
Candid Moments at a Local Festival
August 15 was a day filled with color and excitement as I attended the local Aadi Perukku festival in Kotturpuram. This festival celebrates the monsoon season, and the atmosphere was vibrant with women dressed in traditional sarees, carrying pots of water as offerings to the rivers. I arrived around 6 PM, just as the festivities were about to kick off.
Using my Sony A7 III and a 35mm f/1.4 lens, I was able to capture the rich colors and emotions of the festival. My settings were 1/160s, f/2.8, and ISO 800. One moment that stood out was when an elderly woman offered a prayer, her face illuminated by the warm festival lights. The depth of emotion in her expression was palpable, and this shot made me realize that the true essence of candid photography is about capturing the soul of the moment.
What I Learned from These Moments
Patience and Presence
Each of these experiences taught me the value of being patient and present. Often, we rush to capture the perfect shot without allowing ourselves the time to observe and absorb our surroundings. Whether it was the children at Marina Beach or the couple in the café, the best moments unfolded when I simply allowed myself to be there, camera in hand, ready to document life as it happened.
The Importance of Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in photography, especially when shooting candid moments. The soft golden hour light at Marina Beach made the children’s laughter even more enchanting, while the café’s indoor lighting created a warm, intimate atmosphere for the couple. Understanding how to manipulate light can elevate your candid shots from average to exceptional.
Mistakes I Made
As I reflect on these experiences, I can’t help but think of the mistakes I made along the way. One significant error was during the Aadi Perukku festival when I forgot to check my battery levels. My Canon EOS R5 died just as the festivities were getting into full swing. I had to scramble to find a power bank to recharge my backup battery. This taught me to always come prepared with extra batteries and memory cards, especially during events that are time-sensitive.
Another mistake was not asking for permission before photographing the elderly woman at the festival. While she was in a public space, it’s always good practice to seek consent when capturing candid moments, especially when they evoke strong emotions. I’ve since made it a point to approach subjects politely and explain my intent.
Specific Chennai Location Tips for Candid Photography
Mylapore
When it comes to candid photography, Mylapore offers a trove of opportunities. The vibrant streets are lined with shops, temples, and street vendors, making it a dynamic environment. If you’re planning a visit, try to get there early in the morning or during late afternoons to avoid crowds. Parking can be a challenge; I recommend using the parking lot near the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, which is usually less crowded.
Marina Beach
Marina Beach is another excellent location for capturing candid moments. Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best lighting conditions. Be mindful of the tides if you’re getting close to the water. For parking, I suggest the parking area near the Gandhi Statue, which offers easy access to the beach. Remember to keep your gear protected from sand and moisture — I often use a weather-sealed bag when working in such environments.
Kotturpuram
Kotturpuram, especially during local festivals, is a goldmine for candid moments. The celebrations bring people together, creating an organic backdrop for storytelling through photography. Always arrive early to scout for good spots, and don’t hesitate to engage with the locals — they often have fascinating stories to share, which can lead to some excellent candid shots.
Conclusion
Through my lens this August, I found beauty in moments that captured the essence of life in Chennai. From joyful children at the beach to intimate conversations in a café and vibrant local festivals, each shot told a story waiting to be shared. The lessons learned from these candid moments remind me that photography is not just about the technical aspects; it’s about connecting with people and the world around us. So next time you’re out with your camera, take a moment to breathe, observe, and wait for that perfect moment to unfold.
What equipment do you recommend for candid photography?
For candid photography, a camera with fast autofocus and a versatile lens is essential. I often use the Nikon D850 with a 50mm f/1.8 for its sharpness and low-light performance. A 24-70mm f/2.8 lens is also a great option for versatility.
What settings should I use for candid shots?
Typically, I recommend using a fast shutter speed (1/500s or faster) to freeze motion, a wide aperture (f/2.8 or wider) to blur the background, and adjusting your ISO based on lighting conditions. Experimenting with these settings will help you find your style.
How do I approach people for candid photography?
When approaching people for candid photography, a friendly smile and a simple introduction go a long way. Explain your intent respectfully, and most people will be open to having their photo taken. Always be polite and thank them afterward.
What are some tips for shooting in crowded places?
Shooting in crowded places requires patience and strategic positioning. Arrive early to scout locations, and be ready to adapt as the scene changes. Use a longer lens to capture candid moments from a distance without intruding on people’s personal space.
About the Author: I’m Raghav, a professional photographer based in Chennai with over 8 years of experience specializing in wedding, portrait, and travel photography. I love capturing the essence of moments that truly reflect the culture and beauty of Tamil Nadu.
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