Nervous about your engagement photos?
Awkward in photos? You're in good company. Most of my couples say they're "not photo people," and they end up with some of my favorite sessions. Here's how we get you there.
If you've ever said "I hate having my picture taken," you're in good company. Almost every couple I work with tells me some version of this before their session. Some are worried they won't know what to do with their hands. Others picture a stiff, forced smile. Many have a partner who agreed to photos only because they love you.
The good news is that you don't need to be a natural in front of the camera. That's my job. My sessions aren't about posing perfectly. They're about you two being together while I capture what's already there.
You're Not Supposed to Know What to Do
This is the biggest thing I want you to hear: you don't need to arrive with poses planned or practice in the mirror. I'll guide you through the whole session, from where to stand to where to walk to when to lean in.
Instead of saying "smile at the camera," I give you prompts, little actions and moments that make you move, react, and connect with each other. You'll be so focused on each other that you'll forget I'm there.
Movement Is Your Best Friend
Standing still is what makes people feel awkward. Movement fixes that almost instantly. Walking, swaying, spinning, and pulling each other close give your body something to do and create the kind of real, in-between moments that feel cinematic.
Some of my favorite frames from every session come from the seconds after a prompt, when you're laughing because a twirl went sideways or one of you whispered something ridiculous.
Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera
Most of your session will be about connection, not eye contact with me. Talk to each other, tell each other stories, tease each other a little. When you're focused on your person, your faces soften and your body language relaxes, and it shows.
A little tip: if you ever feel stuck, just hold each other and breathe. Slowing down reads beautifully on camera.
The First Ten Minutes Are the Warm-Up
Almost everyone feels a little stiff at the start, and that's completely normal. I plan for it. The first part of every session is easy and low-pressure, walking and chatting while you get used to the camera.
By about ten minutes in, something shifts. Shoulders drop, laughs come easier, and you stop thinking about the camera. That's when the best photos happen.
A Few Small Things That Help
- Wear something you feel great in. If you're comfortable in your clothes, you'll be comfortable in front of the camera.
- Bring something meaningful. A dog, a favorite blanket, or a bottle of wine to share gives you something natural to do.
- Have a little fun beforehand. Grab coffee or a snack together, put on your favorite music in the car, and show up as a team.
- Let go of perfect. The photos couples love most are rarely the "perfect" ones. They're the ones that feel real.
You Get to Just Be You
The reason I love working with "non-photo people" is that you don't come in with a picture-perfect performance planned. You show up as yourselves, and that honesty is what makes cinematic photos feel like a real story instead of a staged one.
So if you're nervous, that's okay. Come as you are, and I'll take care of the rest.
Ready to plan a session that feels like you?
I'd love to hear about you two and help you create something relaxed, real, and beautiful. Let's chat!
