Your wedding day is one of the most significant days of your life. Capturing the memories of your perfect day should feel as natural and joyful as the day itself! However, it’s common to feel nervous or awkward in front of the camera, especially if you’re not used to being photographed.
I’m here to help! In this ‘How Not to Feel Awkward in Your Wedding Photos’ guide, you’ll find my top 10 tips for feeling confident, relaxed, and truly yourself in your wedding photos ❤️
Why Feeling Awkward Happens
Before diving into solutions, let’s understand why feeling awkward happens. Many spouses-to-be express concerns like:
- Not knowing what to do with their hands
- Worrying about forced smiles
- Feeling self-conscious about their appearance
- Being unsure of how to pose naturally, but wanting ‘candid’ feeling wedding photos
These feelings are completely normal! The key to overcoming them is with these steps below ↓
1. Choose the Right Photographer
This is the number ONE tip for how not to feel awkward in your wedding photos for a reason! Your photographer sets the tone for your entire photo experience. Look for someone who:
- Makes you feel comfortable: Personality matters as much as skill – I cannot stress this point enough! Schedule a meeting or consultation to ensure you click (pun intended!).
- Has a style you LOVE: Review their portfolio to see if their approach aligns with your vision. Always ask to see a full wedding gallery, so you can make sure their style is consistent throughout the day.
- Offers guidance: A great photographer will gently direct you into poses that feel natural and authentic to you.
Pro Tip: Do an engagement shoot. This is the best way to build rapport with your photographer and get comfortable in front of the camera. It also helps with knowing what to expect on the wedding day (a.k.a. knowing that your photographer has your back!)
2. Focus on Connection, Not Perfection
Your wedding photos are about your unique love story, not about creating photos for a high fashion magazine. Instead of worrying about how you might look, focus on your partner. Cuddle, joke with them, and savor the moment — your joy will shine through in the photos naturally.
Key Takeaway:
The best photos happen when you’re genuinely enjoying yourself. Let yourself lean into the fun of the shoot as an experience, not as a means to an end.
3. Practice Makes Perfect
Practice helps ease the nerves. Spend time researching or trying out different poses before the big day. Here are some ideas to get started:
- The Classic Embrace: Wrap your arms around each other and lean in for a kiss or a smile.
- The Walk-and-Talk: Stroll hand-in-hand, chatting or laughing together.
- The Lookback: One of you looks over your shoulder toward the camera while the other looks at you lovingly.
Pro Tip: Use Pinterest to save your favourite images and share those with your photographer before the shoot.
4. Dress Cute and Comfy
Feeling good in what you wear can significantly impact your comfort level. When choosing your wedding attire:
- Opt for a dress that feels like YOU: Whether it’s sleek and modern or romantic and flowing, wear something that reflects your personality.
- Break in your shoes: Avoid painful blisters by wearing your shoes around the house before the big day.
- Work with a hairstylist and/or makeup artist: Opt for styles that enhance your natural beauty without feeling overdone.
Here are a few hair and makeup artists that I recommend!
5. Trust the Process
Your photographer knows how to find the best angles, lighting, and compositions. Trust their expertise and let them guide you. Relax, take a deep breath, and enjoy the process.
Pro Tip: During the shoot, think about a favorite memory with your partner or imagine how you’ll feel looking back on these photos. This trick helps bring genuine emotion to your expressions.
6. Take Notice
In the weeks before your wedding or engagement photos, take careful notice of how you and your partner show love. Here are some things to be mindful of, and perhaps bring into your shoot:
- When you embrace your partner, where do your arms naturally go?
- When you walk together, do you usually hold hands, walk with an arm tucked in theirs, or something else?
- When you stop to look at something together, how do you stand with them?
- Are there any unique ways that you show affection, that you want to bring into your photos?
7. Plan Your Timeline Thoughtfully
Rushing through your wedding timeline can add unnecessary stress. Work with your photographer to schedule enough time for portraits, candids, and family photos. This ensures you’re not rushed and can fully enjoy each moment. Full blog on How to Create a Wedding Photo Timeline here!
Sample Photo Timeline:
| Photo Session | Recommended Time |
| Getting Ready | 40-1.5 hours |
| First Look/Pre-Ceremony Photos | 30 minutes |
| Couple Portraits | 45-60 minutes |
| Family Photos | 30-45 minutes |
| Reception Candids | Throughout |
8. Embrace Movement
Stiff poses can look and feel unnatural. Instead, incorporate movement into your photos:
- Twirl in your dress
- Walk toward the camera holding hands
- Sway together, like you’re practicing your first dance
Movement not only adds a dynamic element to your photos but also helps steer your mind away any potential feelings of awkwardness, and back to enjoying the experience of the shoot itself.
9. Breathe and Stay Present
It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of the day. Take moments to pause, breathe, and ground yourself. Remember, this day is about celebrating your love — let that be your focus.
Pro Tip: Schedule time for a quiet moment with your partner at some point during your wedding day. This can help you reset and reconnect.
10. Trust Yourself
Finally, believe in your beauty and your connection with your partner. You’re marrying the love of your life, and that will show in every image ❤️
Final Thoughts
Feeling awkward in front of the camera is natural, but with the right preparation, mindset, and photographer, you will absolutely shine in your wedding photos! Your photos are a celebration of your unique love story — and there’s nothing more beautiful than that.
Interested in chatting more how not to feel awkward in your wedding photos, or about booking me for your photography? I invite you to reach out anytime! I’d be thrilled to meet you 🥰
FAQs: How Not to Feel Awkward in Your Wedding Photos
1. Why do I feel awkward in wedding photos?
Feeling awkward in wedding photos is common, especially if you’re not used to being in front of the camera. Concerns like not knowing how to pose, worrying about forced smiles, or feeling self-conscious can contribute to this. The key is preparation, choosing a photographer you trust, and focusing on your connection with your partner.
2. How can I look natural and relaxed in wedding photos?
To look natural and relaxed, focus on your partner and the joy of the moment. Movement-based poses, like walking hand-in-hand or slow dancing, can make photos feel candid and authentic. Trust your photographer to guide you into natural poses, and try practicing a few beforehand to build confidence.
3. What should I wear to feel comfortable during wedding photos?
Choose wedding attire that reflects your personality and feels comfortable. Break in your shoes ahead of time to avoid discomfort, and work with a hairstylist and makeup artist to enhance your natural beauty without overdoing it. Feeling good in your outfit helps you look confident in your photos.
4. How can I prepare to feel more confident before my wedding shoot?
Preparation is key! Do an engagement shoot to get comfortable with your photographer, practice poses with your partner, and create a Pinterest board with your favorite photo inspirations. Taking notice of how you naturally show affection can also help you feel more authentic during the shoot.
5. What role does the photographer play in helping me feel less awkward?
A great photographer sets the tone for your photo experience. They’ll guide you into natural poses, offer gentle direction, and create a comfortable environment. Building a connection with your photographer, such as through an engagement session, helps you feel at ease on your wedding day.
