Feeling a little nervous about being in front of the camera on your wedding day? You’re not alone! Most couples aren’t used to having a photographer follow them around capturing every smile, glance, and laugh. The good news? You don’t have to be a professional model to get stunning, natural wedding photos.

In this guide, I’ll share tips on how to feel relaxed, confident, and authentically you in front of the camera so that your photos capture the magic of your wedding day without any awkwardness.


1. Choose a Photographer You Trust

One of the most important factors in feeling comfortable during your wedding photos is having a photographer you trust. Look for someone whose style you love and who feels like a good personality fit. Your photographer will be by your side for much of the day, so it’s important to feel at ease with them.

How I Help My Couples Feel at Ease:

  • I spend time getting to know your hopes and expectations.
  • My approach is relaxed and photojournalistic, meaning I capture moments as they happen rather than forcing stiff poses.
  • I guide you when needed, but I’ll never ask you to do anything that feels unnatural.


2. Schedule an Engagement Session

An engagement session is like a practice run for your wedding photos. It’s a great way to get used to being in front of the camera and to build a relationship with your photographer. By the time your wedding day rolls around, you’ll already know what to expect, and the camera won’t feel so intimidating.

Engagement Session Benefits:

  • You’ll see how your photographer works and feel more comfortable with their style.
  • You can practice natural poses and expressions.
  • You’ll have beautiful photos to use for wedding announcements or decor.


3. Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera

The best wedding photos aren’t about perfectly posed smiles—they’re about genuine moments of connection. Instead of worrying about how you look, focus on your partner. Laugh together, hold hands, and get lost in the moment. That probably sounds easier said than done! But don't worry, I've got lots of prompts at the ready for this. For example, it's natural to freeze up when your instruction is "laugh together," so one of my prompts is "see who can keep a serious expression for the longest time while staring at the camera" (it's normally not long!)


4. Embrace Movement

Staying still and posing can feel uncomfortable. Instead, our goal will be to embrace natural movement. You might walk, dance, spin, or even take a little stroll outside the venue during your session. Movement creates dynamic, authentic images that feel more like you.

Examples of Movement-Based Photos:

  • Walking hand-in-hand through your venue
  • Twirling your partner during a dance
  • Running toward the camera while laughing

These moments feel spontaneous and joyful—and they photograph beautifully. That's why most of my work involves finding the best routes and spaces for this type of movement to unfold.


5. Bring Meaningful Items

Including items that are meaningful to you in your photos can help you feel more grounded. Whether it’s a family heirloom, your dog, or a favorite necklace, familiar items can make you feel more relaxed and add personal touches to your photos.

Ideas for Meaningful Additions:

  • Your pet as part of your wedding party
  • A special bouquet charm or piece of jewelry
  • A handwritten letter from your partner


6. Trust the Process

On your wedding day, you should be fully immersed in the experience—not worrying about how you look in photos. A great photographer will handle the lighting, composition, and timing to ensure your photos look amazing. Trust them to guide you through the process and ask them everything you need to make sure you can!

What I Focus On:

  • Capturing moments as they naturally unfold
  • Giving gentle direction when needed (no stiff poses!)
  • Making sure you look your best without you having to think about it


7. Let Go of Perfection

Some of the best wedding photos happen in unscripted moments. Let go of the idea that you need to look perfect or pose a certain way. It’s the real, raw moments that tell your story best.

Remember:

  • It’s okay to laugh and be a little silly.
  • Emotions make your photos more meaningful.
  • Your unique connection is what makes your photos special—not perfection.


8. Work with the Light

I will be paying close attention to the light throughout the day to ensure your photos look incredible. Natural light is one of the best tools for creating beautiful images, so we'll plan out the best options on your wedding day. As a rule of thumb:

Best Times for Photos in New Mexico:

  • Golden Hour: The hour before sunset, when the light is soft and warm
  • Blue Hour: Just after sunset, when the sky has a dreamy, twilight hue



Let’s Make Your Wedding Photos Fun and Effortless

As a wedding photographer, my goal is to make sure you feel comfortable, confident, and truly yourself in front of the camera. I take a relaxed, easygoing approach so that your photos feel natural and authentic—never forced.

If you’re ready to start planning a wedding photography experience that feels true to you, get in touch with me here. Let’s capture your day in a way that feels effortless, joyful, and uniquely you.