How to Look Natural in Your Wedding Photos: Tips for Camera-Shy Couples
For many couples, the idea of being in front of a camera all day can feel a little overwhelming. If you’re camera-shy, you might worry about looking stiff or awkward in your wedding photos. The good news? You don’t need to be a professional model to look incredible in your pictures! With the right approach, you can relax, enjoy the moment, and have stunning, natural wedding photos that truly capture your love. Here are some tried-and-tested tips to help you feel more comfortable in front of the lens.
Choose a Photographer Who Puts You at Ease
The right photographer will make all the difference. Look for someone who specializes in a relaxed, documentary-style approach, capturing real moments rather than stiff, posed shots. Having a photographer who feels more like a friend will help you forget about the camera and enjoy your day naturally.
I focus on blending into the background, allowing couples to be themselves while capturing those beautiful, authentic moments that truly matter.
Book an Engagement Shoot
A pre-wedding or engagement shoot is a great way to get comfortable in front of the camera before the big day. It allows you to see how your photographer works, understand their direction, and get used to being photographed. Plus, you’ll end up with some beautiful images to use for wedding invites or keepsakes! These are included in all of my packages for this exact reason!
Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera
The best wedding photos come from genuine moments—laughter, tender glances, and the way you naturally interact. Instead of worrying about how you look, focus on your partner. Whisper a joke, hold hands, or simply enjoy the moment together. When you’re lost in the joy of your wedding day, your expressions will be beautifully real.
Keep Moving
Static poses can sometimes feel unnatural. The key to relaxed photos? Movement. Walk together, sway while hugging, or twirl in your wedding attire. These simple actions will create natural, dynamic images full of life and energy.
Confetti shots, first dances, and golden hour strolls are perfect moments for capturing movement effortlessly!
Take Deep Breaths and Shake Off the Nerves
If you’re feeling nervous, take a deep breath and exhale slowly. Shake out your arms and shoulders to release any tension. Your photographer will guide you through everything, so there’s no need to stress about "posing."
Trust Your Photographer’s Direction
Experienced wedding photographers know how to bring out the best in their couples. If they suggest a pose or prompt, trust that it will look great on camera. Instead of overthinking, go with the flow—whether that’s cuddling up for a close shot or laughing together after a fun prompt.
Be Yourself
Your wedding photos should reflect your personality and relationship. If you’re a fun-loving couple, don’t be afraid to be playful! If you’re more reserved, embrace those quiet, intimate moments. There’s no right or wrong way to look in wedding photos—what matters most is that they feel like you.
Enjoy the Day and Forget the Camera
The best way to look natural in your wedding photos is to be fully present on your wedding day. Enjoy every moment, from getting ready to the first dance, without worrying about how you’ll look in the pictures. When you’re happy and relaxed, your photos will reflect that.
Final Thoughts
Being camera-shy shouldn’t stop you from having wedding photos you love. By choosing the right photographer, embracing movement, and focusing on your partner rather than the lens, you’ll end up with beautifully natural images that capture your love story authentically.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, documentary-style photographer who will help you feel at ease in front of the camera, Rhys Murray Photography is here to capture your special day with authenticity and warmth. Let’s create timeless memories together!