If the idea of getting professional photos taken for your wedding day makes you sweat, I promise, you're not alone.


So many of my couples are scared that they're going to look awkward in front of the camera, or they're worried that they won't like how they look when they receive their final gallery. And that's okay, because most people aren't used to having a professional camera pointed at them, especially on one of the most emotional and important days of their life.


But you don't need to be naturally comfortable in front of the camera to have beautiful wedding photos. You don't need to know how to pose, you don't need to become a different version of yourself, and you definitely don't need to spend your wedding day performing.


A huge part of my job is helping you feel comfortable enough to be present with each other. I can guide you when you need direction, give you something to do when standing still feels awkward, and create space for the two of you to actually enjoy the moment you're in.


So if you're nervous about wedding photos, keep reading for 5 tips that can help you feel more comfortable being photographed on your wedding day.

  1. Forget the camera is there

Instead of looking at the lens, focus on your partner. Talk, laugh, whisper something silly, or simply take a breath together. The most natural photos usually happen when you're interacting with each other.


Bride and groom kissing in a sunlit field, groom wearing a cowboy hat and tan suit, bride in a flowing white gown.

 

2. Give your hands something to do

 

Awkward hands are one of the biggest giveaways that you're nervous. Hold your bouquet, fix your partner’s tie, touch their arm, hold hands, touch their face, or gently adjust their jacket.

A couple in wedding attire share a tender moment, smiling at each other outdoors with lush green trees behind them.

 

3. using prompts instead of poses

 

As your photographer, I will give you little things to do: “Kiss your partner all over while you dodge them,” “Whisper your favorite thing about them,” or “Give them a forehead kiss.” Having an action to focus on makes photos feel much less staged.


Venue: The Barn At Villa Venezia

See their full wedding gallery

Groom in black suit kisses bride on cheek while embracing her in white wedding dress outdoors.

 

4. Practice being photographed before the wedding day

 

This is where the engagement session really helps you understand how I photograph and you can get used to being in front of the camera. As your photographer, I always come to your session for wedding day prepared with prompts and poses.

Young couple standing by a serene lake surrounded by lush green trees, woman in white dress and man in blue shirt.

 

5. don't worry about being PERFECTLY still

 

Real moments aren't perfectly symmetrical. A crooked laugh, messy veil, windblown hair, or slightly imperfect pose can make a photograph feel more alive.

Bride in white gown holding floral bouquet walks with groom in black suit carrying her train outside a brick church.

Getting comfortable in front of the camera doesn't mean you suddenly become someone who loves being photographed. It means you feel safe enough, supported enough, and guided enough to be yourself while it's happening.


Because the goal isn't to make you look perfect. The goal is to create wedding photos that feel connected, natural, and true to you, even if you feel a little nervous while we were taking them.



Are you planning your New York wedding? Now's the time to check "hire wedding photographer" off your to-do list.