Emotion is what makes a photograph powerful.. It’s the difference between a nice image and one that stays with you long after you’ve seen it. Capturing raw, authentic emotion in photos isn’t about luck.. it’s about knowing how to create the right environment, direct your subject, and anticipate those fleeting moments. Here’s how I do it.

1. Create a Comfortable Atmosphere

People show real emotion when they feel safe. If your subject is tense or overthinking, their expressions will feel forced. Here’s how to break that barrier:

• Get to know them before shooting—ask questions, have a conversation, make them laugh. 
• Keep the environment relaxed. Music helps, as does a setting they’re comfortable in. Maybe even give them the aux to play there own tunes  
• Don’t rush it.. sometimes, the best moments happen when people forget the camera is even there.

2. Observe, Don’t Just Direct

The best emotional moments happen naturally. Instead of overly directing your subject, pay attention to their body language and micro expressions. I say this a lot but it’s true.. Capture the in between moments!! the split second before a laugh, the quiet introspection after a deep thought. The bts and getting ready for the shoot.

3. Get Close, But Not in the Way

Raw emotion is all about intimacy. Use a prime lens (like the nifty 50mm or 85mm) and step closer to your subject. Let the viewer feel like they’re right there in the moment but don’t make your subject feel trapped, give them space when needed to avoid making them self conscious.

4. Use Natural Light for Depth

Harsh artificial light can strip away emotion, making an image feel staged. Natural light.. it could be some soft window light or golden hour that adds depth and authenticity. Shadows and highlights help tell a story, making emotions feel more tangible.

5. Shoot Continuously and Anticipate the Moment

The most powerful emotions happen in fractions of a second. Don’t just take one shot and move on—shoot in bursts and stay ready for that perfect moment when your subject’s guard is down. Some of the best photos come when people aren’t aware the camera is still clicking.

-A mirrorless camera trick I’ve learned is having your camera shoot in silent mode whilst having music is a game changer!

6. Let the Imperfections Stay

Not every image needs to be perfectly sharp or framed. A slight blur, a missed focus, or a grainy texture can enhance the rawness of emotion. Don’t over edit keep skin texture relatively real, and let small imperfections add to the story.

7. Ask the Right Questions

Sometimes all it takes to bring out emotion is asking the right question. Instead of basic small talk, try asking about something meaningful: a childhood memory, a life-changing moment, or something they’re passionate about. The shift in their energy will be very visible

Final Thoughts

Capturing real emotion is about connection. The more genuine you are with your subject, the more real their emotions will be in the frame. The key is to create trust, stay present, and embrace the imperfections that make each moment unique. When you focus on emotion first, the technical side of photography naturally falls into place.