Let’s be honest—most couples don’t spend their weekends posing for professional photos. If the thought of standing in front of a camera makes you feel a bit awkward, you’re not alone! The good news? You don’t need to be a model to look effortlessly natural and relaxed in your wedding photography.
As a wedding photographer, I know exactly how to capture those beautiful, candid moments that feel like you. With a few simple techniques, you’ll feel confident, look amazing, and—most importantly—enjoy every second of your big day without worrying about the camera.
So, grab a cuppa and let’s dive into my top tips for looking natural in your wedding photos!
1. Trust Your Photographer (We’ve Got You!)
First things first—choose a photographer who makes you feel at ease. Your wedding photographer isn’t just there to snap pictures; they’re there to guide you, make you laugh, and help you forget the camera is even there.
A great photographer will chat with you beforehand, get to know your vibe, and offer gentle direction on the day without making you feel posed or forced. The more comfortable you are with them, the more relaxed your wedding photography will feel.
Top Tip: Have an engagement shoot! It’s a brilliant way to get used to being in front of the camera before the big day.
2. Keep Moving—The Best Shots Happen Between the Poses
Ever seen wedding photos where couples look effortlessly in love, laughing and lost in the moment? Here’s the secret: they weren’t standing still!
Movement creates a more natural and relaxed feel in your wedding photos. Instead of holding a stiff pose, try:
- Walking hand in hand
- Whispering something funny in your partner’s ear
- Twirling your dress (or spinning your partner!)
- Holding a toast and clinking glasses
The magic happens in those in-between moments when you’re interacting naturally.
3. Breathe and Relax Your Shoulders
Tension loves to creep into wedding photos—especially in your shoulders and hands. The easiest fix? Take a deep breath, exhale, and shake it out.
On the day, if you feel yourself tensing up, your photographer will remind you to:
✅ Drop your shoulders
✅ Loosen your hands (no clenched fists!)
✅ Shift your weight between your feet
You’ll instantly look more comfortable, and your photos will reflect that relaxed energy.
4. Use Your Eyes to Tell the Story
A genuine smile isn’t just about your mouth—it’s in your eyes. Think about a moment that makes you happy, like how your partner looks when they’re laughing, or that first sip of champagne after the ceremony.
This little mindset shift helps your eyes sparkle with real emotion, making your photos feel more natural and authentic.
Bonus Tip: If in doubt, look at your partner rather than the camera—it instantly makes the moment feel more real.
5. Forget About ‘Perfect’ and Just Have Fun
The best wedding photos aren’t about looking flawless—they’re about capturing you. The belly laughs, the teary-eyed smiles, the little moments that make your day unforgettable.
The more fun you have, the more your wedding photography will reflect the love and joy of the day. So dance like nobody’s watching, embrace the wind in your hair, and don’t stress about perfection—because real, natural moments are always the most beautiful.
6. Dress for Comfort & Confidence
Feeling good in what you’re wearing makes all the difference. Choose a wedding outfit that allows you to move comfortably, sit down easily, and dance without worrying about wardrobe malfunctions.
For grooms, a well-fitted suit (not too tight!) will help you feel relaxed, while brides should consider fabrics that move beautifully and feel good all day long.
Pro Tip: Avoid shoes that make you feel awkward—if you can’t walk naturally in them, they’ll show in your photos!
7. Embrace the Unexpected!
Rain? Wind? A bit of dress fluff? These are the moments that make your wedding uniquely yours. Some of the most stunning natural and relaxed wedding photography comes from unexpected moments—running through the rain, veil caught in the breeze, or a hilarious speech reaction.
Lean into the chaos, enjoy every second, and trust your photographer to turn even the little mishaps into pure magic.
Final Thoughts
Looking natural and relaxed in your wedding photography isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being you. The right photographer will help you feel at ease, capture those in-between moments, and make sure your love story shines through every image.
So, take a deep breath, enjoy your day, and let the camera do its thing. Your wedding photos will be beautiful because they’ll be real.
Click this link to have a look at my portfolio and see for yourself.
Want to chat more about how we can make your wedding photos effortlessly stunning? Click here to book a call—I’d love to hear all about your plans!
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