How to Choose a Wedding Photographer If You Don’t Love Being in Front of the Camera

christaschiesslpho
3 days ago
3 min read

If the idea of being photographed all day makes you feel a little uneasy, you’re not alone. One of the most common things couples tell us is, “We’re so awkward in front of the camera.” And honestly? That’s completely normal.

You don’t need to be a model or know how to pose to have beautiful wedding photos. You just need the right photographer—one who knows how to guide you, put you at ease, and capture moments that feel real instead of forced.

If you’re planning your wedding and already worrying about feeling stiff, uncomfortable, or overly posed, here’s how to choose a wedding photographer who will actually make the experience enjoyable.

Look for a photographer who prioritizes connection over posing

If a photographer’s portfolio feels stiff or overly styled, chances are the experience might feel that way too.

Instead, look for imagery that shows:

natural movement
genuine laughter
quiet, emotional moments
candid interactions between couples

These are signs your photographer knows how to create space for real moments, not just direct poses. The best photos often happen in between—the glances, the deep breaths, the way your partner squeezes your hand when no one’s watching.

Ask how they guide couples who feel awkward

This is such an important question, especially if being in front of the camera doesn’t come naturally to you.

A great photographer won’t expect you to “just know what to do.” They’ll:

give gentle prompts instead of stiff poses
explain what’s happening so you don’t feel lost
help you move naturally rather than freeze in place
step back when you need a private moment

You should feel supported, not performed.

Read reviews for how couples felt, not just how photos looked

Anyone can say their photos were beautiful—but pay attention to reviews that talk about the experience.

Look for phrases like:

“made us feel comfortable”
“felt so natural”
“easy to work with”
“helped us stay calm and present”

Those words tell you the photographer understands that weddings are emotional, fast-paced, and deeply personal.

Your photographer should help you feel present on your wedding day

Your wedding day isn’t a photoshoot—it’s one of the biggest days of your life.

The right photographer will:

help build a timeline that feels relaxed
keep things moving without rushing you
know when to guide and when to step back
capture the big moments and the in-between ones

When you feel comfortable and taken care of, your photos naturally reflect that.

Choose someone you genuinely trust

You’ll spend more time with your photographer than almost anyone else on your wedding day.

Trust your gut:

Do you feel at ease reading their words?
Do their photos feel honest and emotional?
Can you picture yourself laughing with them on your wedding day?

When trust is there, everything else falls into place.

Our approach

We work with couples who don’t love being in front of the camera—and we’re really good at it.

Our approach is relaxed, guided, and rooted in connection. We’ll talk you through everything, offer natural prompts, and give you space to simply be together. No awkward posing. No pressure to perform. Just you, your partner, and a wedding day that feels exactly like you.

If that sounds like what you’re looking for, we’d love to hear more about your plans.