Plenty of couples say the same thing when they meet their photographer: "I'm really awkward in photos." It is completely normal. Very few people are comfortable being photographed for hours, in heavy outfits, in front of hundreds of guests. The good news is that looking natural is mostly about preparation and a few simple habits, not about being photogenic.
Before the wedding
Choose a photographer you are comfortable with
The single biggest factor is how you feel around the person holding the camera. On your first call, notice whether they put you at ease. A photographer who chats, jokes and guides you gently will get far more natural photos than one who just says "smile".
Do a pre-wedding or engagement shoot
Even a short, informal session helps enormously. You learn how your photographer works, they learn your good angles, and by the wedding day the camera feels familiar. Many couples say their wedding photos looked more relaxed because of it.
Look at photos of yourself you like
Find three or four photos where you think you look like yourself. Share them with your photographer. They will notice what works: your angle, your expression, whether you look better laughing or smiling softly.
Do a makeup trial and check it in photos
Take photos at your makeup trial in daylight and with flash. Makeup that feels heavy in the mirror can look just right on camera, and makeup that looks fine in person can look flat under flash. A good makeup artist will adjust it for photography.
On the day
Breathe out before each shot
Tension shows in the shoulders and jaw. A slow breath out just before the photo relaxes your face and drops your shoulders. It is the simplest trick there is, and it works.
Think of something, rather than "smile"
A forced smile looks forced. Instead, think about something that genuinely makes you happy, or look at your partner and say something only they can hear. Real expressions follow.
Keep moving
Stiff poses look stiff. Walk together, adjust your dupatta, fix your partner's collar, laugh at something. Photographers love movement because it creates natural moments.
Give your hands something to do
Hands are where awkwardness shows most. Hold your partner's hand, rest a hand on their arm, hold your bouquet or the edge of your dupatta. Avoid hands hanging straight down or clenched.
Mind your posture, gently
Sit or stand tall, with your weight on your back foot and your chin slightly forward and down. It looks better in photos than it feels, so trust your photographer when they suggest it.
Forget the camera during the rituals
During the ceremony, don't look for the camera. Focus on the rituals and each other. Your photographer's job is to find you; your job is to be present. Those are often the best photos of the day.
Small things that make a big difference
- Keep a touch-up kit nearby: blotting papers, powder and your lipstick.
- Take a moment alone with your partner between functions, with only the photographer, for a few quiet portraits.
- Drink water and eat. Tired, hungry people look tired and hungry in photos.
- Agree on a signal with your photographer if you need a break.
If you're still nervous
Tell your photographer. Experienced wedding photographers work with nervous couples all the time, and they have plenty of ways to help: guided prompts, short breaks, and simply giving you time. Remember, nobody is judging your photos. Your family and friends will love them because they are of you.
Find a photographer and makeup artist on WedVue
Browse photographers and makeup artists on WedVue, look for natural, candid work in their portfolios, and message them to book a pre-wedding shoot or trial.
