How to Look Natural in Wedding Photos: 4 Simple Tips
Having beautiful wedding portraits is a collaboration and the result of many elements working together. While we, the photographers, take care of the technical and creative side, there are a few simple things you can do as the bride and groom to help your portraits look and feel natural. Here are 4 simple tips:
Proper Mindset
I’m putting this first because it’s the most important thing to remember: portraits are an essential part of your wedding day.
To this day, I look at my Mom’s bridal photo and see how beautiful she is! My Dad looked so handsome too! Having their portraits to look back on is truly priceless.
Wedding portraits are more than just a record of how you looked; they capture how you felt—the joy, the glow, the anticipation. These are photographs your children (should you decide to have them) will look at after 10, 20, or 50 years! Isn’t that beautiful?
It’s normal to feel a little awkward. But if you focus on the meaning behind these photos, it’s easier to tune out the noise and just enjoy the moment.
Trust Your Photographer For many couples, the wedding day is the first time having a professional photographer. I get it—I’m awkward in front of the camera too! It requires a level of trust and comfort before I actually loosen up. And most probably it’s the same for you. That’s why it’s so important to connect before the wedding day. A pre-wedding meeting or an engagement shoot can help build rapport so you feel comfortable on the big day. Remember: we have the same goal—to create beautiful, honest photographs you’ll love. We’ll guide you through it, so you can relax and be yourself. Collaborate and Communicate It’s so important that you tell your photographer what you like and do not like. Share parts of yourself you want to highlight, or angles you don’t feel comfortable in. Maybe you have a favorite side, want to show off a tattoo. Maybe you’re not so used to smiling with your lips closed, and not so keen on having photographs that are too serious. The more we know, the better we can create images that feel like you. Communicate and collaborate with your photographer. Believe me, we would love to know. Ultimately, our goal is to create photographs that make you happy, not cringe!
Don’t Forget to Breathe
It sounds simple, but it makes all the difference. After more than a decade photographing weddings, we can instantly spot clenched hands, tense shoulders, or a furrowed brow.
When you feel stiff, take a slow, deep breath through your nose. As you exhale, smile and drop your shoulders. It’s proven to slow your heart rate and bring a sense of calm. Your body will relax, your expression will soften, and the joy you’re feeling will come through naturally in your portraits.
Our Final Thoughts
Your wedding portraits aren’t just photos—they’re part of your love story. With the right mindset, trust, open communication, and a little deep breathing, they can feel honest, light, and full of joy! We’re so excited to capture them for you!✨
