Not everyone is a natural in front of a camera. In fact, many couples feel anxious or awkward posing for wedding photos. But when your wedding day comes around, there’s no avoiding the camera – your photos will be your most cherished memories of the day.
If posing for photos isn’t your thing, don’t worry. With the right preparation and mindset, even the most camera-shy couples can enjoy their photography experience.
Big Day Productions knows what it means to feel uncomfortable during a photoshoot, so we’ve prepared some suggestions to make it easier for you. This guide shares actionable tips to help you feel confident, look relaxed, and create timeless images that truly reflect your love story.
What To Do Before Posing for Wedding Photos
1. Choose a Photographer You Can Trust
The first and most important step is finding a UK wedding photographer who makes you feel comfortable.
They’ll be by your side throughout the most intimate parts of your day, so connection and trust are key.
What to Look For:
- A warm, friendly personality
- Clear communication and patience
- Experience working with camera-shy clients
- A photography style that matches your vision
Tip: Schedule an in-person or video call before booking. Use the time to ask questions and see how well you connect. Feeling safe and understood by your photographer will naturally ease your anxiety.
2. Wear Something That Makes You Feel Amazing
The clothes you choose for your wedding and/or engagement shoot play a big role in how confident you feel during your session.
While style matters, comfort is just as important.
Outfit Tips for Confident Posing:
- Pick attire that flatters your body and suits your personality
- Choose fabrics that allow movement and feel soft on your skin
- Avoid anything too tight, itchy, or heavy
- Coordinate colours and styles with your partner for a cohesive look
- Break in your wedding shoes beforehand!
Tip: If you’re doing a pre-wedding shoot, try multiple outfits to discover what photographs best and help you feel most like yourself.
3. Practice Being Yourself in Front of the Camera
It’s tempting to recreate Pinterest-perfect poses, but remember: you are not models—you’re real people celebrating real love.
Overposing can feel awkward and lead to stiff, unnatural photos.
Instead, Focus On:
- Genuine moments between you and your partner
- Candid expressions of joy, laughter, and love
- Simple movements like walking hand-in-hand or slow dancing
- Conversations and shared jokes to help you forget the camera is even there
Let your photographer guide you through natural prompts, not forced poses. The most beautiful photos often come from unscripted moments.
How to Take Control of Your Wedding Photo Experience
Feeling out of control is one of the biggest reasons couples get nervous during photo sessions.
By being proactive and involved in the process, you can reduce that uncertainty and feel more empowered.
4. Plan Your Locations and Poses
Talk to your photographer in advance about the settings and types of photos you want.
Ask Yourself:
- Are there spots at your venue that feel special or sentimental?
- Would a park, rooftop, or beach put you more at ease?
- Do you prefer indoor, outdoor, or natural light photography?
Discuss all this during your pre-wedding meetings. Bringing in your own ideas gives you a sense of control and allows your photographer to tailor the shoot to your personality.
5. Add Personal Touches and Props
Props can be playful, nostalgic, or symbolic – and they can help take the pressure off having to “do something” with your hands or body.
Examples of Easy Props:
- A cosy blanket for snuggling
- Champagne glasses for toasts
- Your dog or pet (if they’re part of your love story)
- A meaningful item like a book, letter, or vintage accessory
These small details make your photos more personal and less staged.
6. Book a Pre-Wedding Engagement Session
You might think the last thing you need is more photography, but hear us out – an engagement session can be a game changer.
Why Engagement Sessions Help:
- You’ll build rapport with your photographer
- You’ll get used to being in front of the camera
- You can experiment with angles, lighting, and poses
- It’s a low-pressure setting without the time crunch of your wedding day
By the time your actual wedding comes, you’ll feel much more confident and know exactly what to expect.
Posing Tips for Wedding Day Confidence
When the big day arrives, it’s normal to feel a little nervous. Here are some quick, effective tips to help you stay relaxed and confident:
7. Lean on Your Partner
You’re not doing this alone. Hold hands, whisper something silly, or simply gaze into each other’s eyes. That natural chemistry will outshine any awkwardness.
8. Focus on Connection, Not the Camera
Forget the camera exists. Talk, laugh, or share a quiet moment. Let your photographer worry about the technical details.
9. Breathe and Take Breaks
It’s okay to pause and take a breath. If you start to feel overwhelmed, step away for a moment with your partner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we request specific shots or poses?
Absolutely! Communicate any specific shots or poses you have in mind during your pre-wedding meetings. Your photographer will appreciate your input and will work with you to incorporate your vision while maintaining a natural flow.
Should we provide a shot list to our photographer?
It’s helpful to provide a list of must-have shots, especially for family portraits. However, avoid overwhelming your photographer with an extensive list, as they often excel in capturing candid moments that may not be on your list.
Let’s Capture Your Love Story
Still feeling unsure about posing for wedding photos? We get it – and we’re here to help. Our UK wedding photography and videography services focus on making you feel at ease, capturing every moment with authenticity and care.
Get in touch to learn more or schedule a free consultation. Let Big Day Productions create photos you’ll cherish for a lifetime – without the awkward posing.
