One of the most common things couples say to me before a wedding or shoot is: “We’re really awkward in photos.” And hoonestly? Most people feel like that.
Very few couples arrive already knowing exactly what to do in front of a camera, and that’s completely normal. My job isn’t to expect people to suddenly become models for the day, it’s to create an environment where people feel comfortable enough to actually be themselves.
A lot of the best wedding photos happen when people stop thinking about the camera entirely.
So, here are a few ways I help camera shy couples feel more relaxed during photos.
I Prompt Rather Than Pose
This is probably the biggest difference. Instead of placing people into stiff poses and expecting them to hold unnatural expressions, I use prompts and movement to help things feel more natural.
That might mean: walking together, talking to each other, fixing clothing, holding hands, tell each other a funny joke, moving around naturally, focusing on each other instead of the camera and my all time favourite, kiss with teeth!
The goal is never perfection. It’s comfort, connection and genuine reactions.
I Give People Space
Not every moment needs a camera directly in someone’s face.
Some of the most emotional wedding photos happen when people are simply allowed to exist naturally for a minute without interruption. I pay a lot of attention to people’s energy throughout the day, especially for introverted, socially anxious, or neurodivergent couples who might feel overwhelmed by constant attention.
Sometimes stepping back creates far better photos than constant direction ever could.
I Keep Things Moving
Standing still while somebody photographs you can feel awkward very quickly.
Movement gives people something real to focus on, which helps everything feel less performative and far more relaxed. Some of the best moments happen in between. While people are laughing, getting distracted, reacting naturally, or simply settling into the moment without overthinking it. That’s usually when things start feeling comfortable.
I Keep Things Low Pressure
There’s no expectation to perform perfectly all day.
If something feels awkward, we move on. If people need a minute, we pause. If the weather changes, we adapt. Keeping the atmosphere calm makes a huge difference because people stop worrying about whether they’re “doing it right” and start relaxing into the experience instead.
I Focus on Real Moments Over Perfect Ones
The photos people usually end up loving most are rarely the perfectly posed ones.
It’s the quieter moments, the unexpected laughter, the movement, the emotional reactions or the tiny gestures people don’t even realise they’re doing. Those are the things that still feel real years later.
Most camera shy couples end up realising they didn’t hate having photos taken nearly as much as they expected.
Ready to chat?
If you’re looking for an alternative wedding photographer who gets what you want and delivers photos you can be proud of, I’d love to hear from you.
Fill out the contact form, send me an email, or let’s chat over a coffee if you’re nearby. I’m here to help make your day feel effortless, so you can focus on what matters.
