It’s not about stiff poses and fake smiles. It’s about moments, moments that actually matter when you look back in 20 years. Here are a few wedding photography tips to help you with an important part of your day.
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You’re Not Just Booking a Photographer…
You’re booking someone who’s going to be with you for every major moment of your wedding day, from the quiet getting ready bits to the dance floor madness.
And here’s where these wedding photography tips really come into play. It’s not just about finding someone who takes nice photos, it’s about finding someone who gets you. Someone who can create natural wedding photography that tells your story without awkward posing or fake laughs.
Your photographer should help you feel at ease, blend into the day, and catch those real, blink-and-you-miss-it moments. If you want photos that still hit different ten years from now, it starts with picking someone who knows how to keep it relaxed and real.
Keeping It Natural in Front of the Camera
Everyone’s different. Some couples love the idea of an editorial-style shoot, and that’s cool. But if you’re after something more laid-back and true to how the day actually felt, a natural, documentary-style approach might suit you better.
For me, the best photos come when the day’s just… happening. No awkward posing, no fake laughs. Just you, your guests, and a camera quietly catching the good stuff – the real stuff. Those in-between moments you didn’t even know were happening.
See the Weddings I’ve Captured
Whether it’s a hug from your nan or your mates cracking up over a spilled pint, these are the kind of moments that bring your day back to life every time you look at them.
And if you’re someone who feels awkward in front of a camera? You’re not alone. (I’m exactly the same) The trick is working with someone who helps you feel like yourself, and knows how to make the camera feel invisible.
Not a Photoshoot, Just Real Moments
Having your photo taken doesn’t mean you have to stand in a field, holding hands, staring at each other like you’re in a perfume advert. Unless that’s your thing of course.
But if that sounds like your worst nightmare, there’s good news, couple portraits can still feel like you. No stiff poses. No weird instructions, just a bit of time away from the chaos, having a laugh, catching your breath, and letting me quietly grab some natural shots as you bounce off each other. You have just got married, you’ll be floating on air!
Whether you’re walking, chatting, messing about, or having a moment together – that’s where the magic is. The aim? To get images that actually feel like you two, not like some version of yourselves that only exists for the camera.
And trust me, if you’re worried you’ll feel awkward, you won’t, not once you’re in it. You’ll be too busy enjoying each other to even notice the camera’s there.
Want Real Moments Captured?
Real Memories Over Perfect Poses
Some of the most powerful wedding photos aren’t the ones where everything’s perfectly placed. They’re the ones in between. A quiet glance, a belly laugh, a moment you didn’t even realise happened until you see it frozen in time.
You don’t need to pose, and you definitely don’t need to perform. The best photos are never forced. They’re natural, honest, and full of life. It’s your mate wiping away a tear during your vows. It’s your gran dancing like she’s 21 again. It’s the two of you sneaking five minutes away from the madness, just taking it all in.
Good photography tells the full story of your day, not just the bits where you’re standing still and smiling. It captures what it felt like. That’s the magic you’ll look back on and actually feel again, years down the line.
And if you’re into the styled, editorial look, go for it. Everyone’s different, and a good photographer will match your vibe, not force you into something that doesn’t feel like you.
Tips for Couples Who Hate Having Their Photo Taken
- Keep moving
Walking, talking, messing about – anything’s better than standing stiff. Movement makes everything feel natural (and looks way better). - Don’t look at the camera
Seriously, just ignore me. Talk to each other. Laugh. Tell a stupid joke. I’ll do the rest. - Pick the right photographer
If you vibe with them, you’ll relax. If they’re bossy or awkward, you’ll feel it – and it’ll show in the photos. - Forget what’s ‘supposed’ to happen
There are no rules. No must-have shots. Just moments. The more relaxed you are, the more you’ll love the photos later. - Take five
Sneaking off for a few minutes alone gives you space to breathe – and that’s when some of the best photos happen.
Couple Portraits Don’t Have to Be Cringe
Let’s be honest, the words “couple shoot” can send some people into panic mode. Visions of awkward poses, forced smiles, or being made to stare into each other’s eyes like you’re in a chocolate advert.
But here’s the thing, couple portraits can actually be one of the calmest, most real parts of the day. A quick breather, a bit of space, and a chance to just be together. No cheesy direction, no weird hand placement, just a walk, a chat, a moment to soak it all in while I hang back and capture it all for you.
The goal? Photos that feel like you two, not some version of you that only exists for Instagram.
Let’s Talk About Your Day
I hope these wedding photography tips help but your nerves at ease, and if you’re looking for natural wedding photographer that focuses on moments, not stiff poses, then I might be your guy. I photograph weddings all over the UK (and beyond), and I’m all about capturing the good stuff without making it a photoshoot.
Got questions? Planning something a bit different? Or just want to chat about how wedding photography should feel? Get in touch here – – I’d love to hear your plans.
