Feeling Awkward in Front of the Camera? Here’s How to Relax
Let’s be honest — most of us aren’t used to being professionally photographed, and the idea of having a camera pointed at you all day can feel… well, a bit intimidating. Whether you freeze up, overthink your smile, or don’t know what to do with your hands — you’re not alone.
In fact, I’d say 9 out of 10 couples I work with tell me the same thing before their shoot or wedding:
“We’re really awkward in front of the camera.”
But here’s the truth: some of the most beautiful, emotional wedding photos I’ve taken are of couples who thought they were awkward. You don’t need to be confident in front of the lens — you just need to be yourselves. That’s where real magic lives.
1. It’s Not About Posing — It’s About Feeling
If you’re searching for natural wedding photography, you’re in the right place. My approach is never about stiff poses or forced smiles. Instead, I create space for you to relax and be present. I’ll give you gentle prompts — like walking together, whispering something silly, or just holding each other — to create real moments, not staged ones.
Genuine connection always looks better than perfect posture.
2. Build Trust With Your Photographer
Comfort comes from familiarity. That’s why I always take time to connect with my couples before the wedding day — whether it’s over email, a video call, or a relaxed engagement shoot. When we’ve already chatted and laughed a bit, you’ll feel like you’re with a friend, not a stranger with a camera.
The result? More relaxed wedding photos that reflect who you truly are.
3. Embrace the Imperfection
You don’t have to worry about looking flawless. The most memorable candid wedding photos often come from unplanned moments — a hair out of place, your dress catching the wind, or a burst of real laughter. It’s those raw, unscripted snippets that tell your story best.
Let go of the pressure to look perfect — the most powerful images are the ones that feel true.
4. An Engagement Shoot Can Be a Game-Changer
If you’re a little nervous about being photographed on your wedding day, an engagement shoot can make all the difference. It’s casual, it’s fun, and there’s zero pressure. You’ll get used to being in front of the camera and start to understand how I work — which helps you feel more confident and at ease when the big day arrives.
Plus, you’ll walk away with a beautiful set of pre-wedding portraits to use for save-the-dates, your wedding website, or just for yourselves.
5. Be Present, Not Posed
The key to getting natural wedding photos is simple: be in the moment. Focus on each other, on how the day feels, on what’s really happening — not the camera. My job as your photographer is to anticipate moments before they happen and quietly capture them without disrupting the flow of your day.
Forget the camera. Hug your friends, cry happy tears, dance like nobody’s watching — I’ll be there to document it all, just as it unfolds.
Final Thought
You don’t need to be “photogenic.” You don’t need to know how to pose. You don’t even need to love being photographed. You just need to be yourselves — real, human, and in love.
That’s what creates powerful, timeless wedding photography.
So if you’re someone who feels a bit awkward in front of the camera — don’t worry. I’ve got you.
Want to Feel More Confident in Your Photos?
Take a look at Why an Engagement Shoot is Totally Worth It