Here’s a question I get asked often by couples referring to my approach to wedding photography posing, “Are you comfortable posing couples with no prior experience in front of the camera?”
That’s a question I hear often enough as a wedding photographer. The answer is… heck yeah!
Most couples I work with have zero experience in front of the camera. However, we still create timeless wedding portraits that they love and cherish on a daily basis.
In this blog post, I’ll share how I approach working with couples who are nervous or unsure about being photographed.
![couple laughing together on their wedding day](https://jasonmontoyaphoto.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/the-barn-at-willow-brook-wedding-photography-562-1500x1000.jpg)
The Process
Right off the bat, I reassure my couples that feeling camera-shy is completely normal.
Weddings are typically the first (and often only) time that someone has a dedicated photographer following them around all day, so it’s bound to feel a little strange at first.
But fear not! I see my role as more than just capturing those timeless, must-have photos. It’s also about making the entire photography process as smooth and enjoyable as possible for everyone involved.
Wedding Photography Posing
My approach to wedding photography posing (and wedding photography in general) is all about creating a relaxed and natural atmosphere. My goal is to help couples feel comfortable and at ease, so we can capture their genuine connection and personalities. We’ll start by chatting and getting to know each other a bit, which helps us build trust and rapport.
Part of putting couples at ease involves educating them on basic rules for posing. Once we’ve broken the ice, I guide my couples through a systematic approach to posing, along with some simple do’s and don’ts.
The Approach
When it comes to poses, I have five specific posing stances that get further broken down into several other posing variations. But here’s the kicker – I encourage my couples to forget everything I’ve taught them!
Why? Wedding photography posing isn’t about following a rigid set of steps; it’s about learning some basic ground rules and then going with the flow, allowing whatever feels natural and genuine to shine through. And hey, who doesn’t love breaking a few rules, am I right?
Once we’re ready to start shooting, I provide gentle direction and guidance every step of the way.
As a wedding photography specialist, I’m able to suggest poses and movements that feel natural and flattering to each person’s unique body compositions.
Throughout the session, I encourage my couples to be themselves and provide additional guidance as needed. Often I don’t need to say much because, by this point in the wedding day, we’re all comfortable with each other. This ‘portrait session’ turns into a mini adventure where we explore and find cool ways to capture unique photos.
The best shots come from those candid, in-between moments when couples are simply enjoying each other’s company and being their authentic selves.
![bride and groom running in the rain together on their wedding day](https://jasonmontoyaphoto.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/essex-maryland-wedding-photography-47-1500x1000.jpg)
Let’s take a moment to talk about my love for creative portraits.
I believe that every couple is unique. I love using the environment around them to create one-of-a-kind images that reflect their personalities and love story.
Whether it’s capturing the golden light of sunset in a romantic outdoor setting or finding unexpected opportunities for epic silhouettes, I’m always on the lookout for new ways to create something truly special.
![bride and groom taking a creative silhouette portrait together in the night sky](https://jasonmontoyaphoto.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/middleburg-barn-wedding-photos-698-1500x1000.jpg)
The Importance of Candid Moments
While portraits are important for capturing those timeless, frame-worthy shots, candid photos from the wedding day itself are truly the most important. Those are the moments that capture the raw emotion and authentic joy of wedding days. Whether it’s a shared laugh between loved ones, a tearful hug, or a spontaneous dance floor moment, candid shots are treasures to be cherished forever.
To read more about candid wedding moments and to see examples, check out this blog post – 5 Reasons Why Candid Wedding Photography Is Awesome
Practice Makes Perfect
Engagement photos are not only a fun way to celebrate the love and excitement leading up to the big day, but they’re also a great opportunity for couples to practice posing with their photographer. It’s like a test run before the main event.
During the engagement session, couples have the chance to get to know their photographer better. They also get to experiment with different poses and locations, and most importantly, have fun together. Not to mention, it’s an epic way to become more comfortable in front of the camera before the wedding day arrives.
If you want to learn more about whether engagement photos are necessary or not, check out my blog post on this exact topic – Are Engagement Photos Necessary?
![couple walking together during sunset](https://jasonmontoyaphoto.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/manassas-battlefield-park-engagement-photos-77-1500x1000.jpg)
Whether it’s a posed photograph or an unscripted candid moment. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the experience. This is the time to celebrate with your loved ones and create beautiful memories together.