Introduction

In a world where audiences crave authenticity, candid video and candid film have emerged as powerful storytelling tools. But what exactly do these terms mean? And is “candid film” a recognized concept? This blog explores the essence of candid video, its impact on modern storytelling, and how businesses, creators, and brands can leverage it for success.

What is Candid Video?

Candid video or Cinematic Wedding Films, or Wedding highlights / Teasers, there are so many words in the industry which are thrown around to suggest a contemporary filming of the wedding. Essentially it is all about capturing real, unscripted moments that feel natural and spontaneous. Unlike traditional video production, which often relies on scripted performances, candid video focuses on genuine emotions and organic interactions.

Key Characteristics of Candid or Contemporary Film:

  • Authenticity: The idea is to capture people and moments as they truly are, rather than directing them to act a certain way.
  • Unscripted: No rigid scripts or rehearsed lines, making the content feel real. Because then you can look back at it and truly admire the authenticity of the day.
  • Emotionally Engaging: Evokes real emotions, making the audience feel connected.
  • Flexible Applications: Can be used as a quick whatsapp video to share in family and friends group, or can be used a cinematic film viewing on a big screen with the entire family.
  • Powerful for Branding: Candid video for branding helps businesses create an authentic presence.

Events which are ideal of Candid or Contemporary Film:

  • Smaller events: Like Haldi or Mehendi where close friends and family gather and interactions are rich, are ideal for candid films.
  • Big Celebrations: When you need the grandness and flair of the wedding to come alive, you ideally need a contemporary candid film, because the filmer would be in sync with that’s en vogue and what the clients need.
  • Main Wedding Event: Contemporary films can truly bring out the subtle nuances of a wedding and the real emotions. This is why we want to make a film isn’t it?
  • Roasts and Toasts : If you have a reception where people speak their minds and hearts of if there are interesting celebrations like a first dance or a reading or a family member singing then you need a Contemporary or Candid film, but yes if you are looking to host a formal meet & greet reception then you can employ a more traditional video maker.

Is Candid Video Expensive, if so why?

Yes, in short the Candid Filmmaking is far more expensive that traditional video. Its really Chalk and cheese. Both in quality and thus in costs

What Adds to the cost:

  • Expensive Gear: Latest gear to give you the highest and crispest video quality.
  • The People behind the camera: These filmers are also more expensive. They understand cinema, lighting, shot pairing, cinematic appeal and most importantly they understand the ‘context’ of the wedding. Either through film schools or coming from .
  • Editing Costs: Talent who can put together a film with the right contect and good audio is also more expensive than a traditional approach.
  • Audio and Other gear: Some filmers like to create fresh music for films which is of-course very expensive and some invest in licensing through online galleries to use copyright free music. Other than that, there is investment in mics, sound recorders, cables, drones, and lots of other paraphernalia to produce a cinematic films, which all adds to the cost. But its worth it! 🙂

Conclusion

Candid video is more than just a trend—it’s a powerful way to tell stories, connect with audiences, and showcase authenticity. Whether used for smaller events, or the main wedding, candid video helps create meaningful connections that scripted content often lacks.

Ready to Elevate Your Storytelling?

At Salt & Pepper, we specialize in contemporary wedding films that capture raw emotions and real moments. Get in touch today to explore how we can bring your brand’s story to life!