How to pose naturally and feel comfortable on camera for the best candid wedding photos

Here's the truth: we all feel awkward in photos. It takes a while to get comfortable in front of the camera and feel natural while being documented. And if you're getting married you don't necessarily have extra time to worry about being comfortable in front of the camera.

Luckily there are a few things you can keep in mind and prepare beforehand to make for the best candid wedding photos possible. Candid wedding photography relies less on posing than more traditional wedding photos. But there are still ways to ensure you're getting the best wedding photos possible.

Embrace Your Unique Story: The key to nailing those natural poses is to let go of any preconceived notions of what a "perfect" pose should look like and to lean into what makes your love unique. Let go of the expectations of traditional photos and think about what makes your love story unique. Do you love to goof around? Share quiet moments? Embrace your quirks, your idiosyncrasies, and your individuality as a couple.

Live in the Moment: One of the biggest mistakes couples make when trying to pose for wedding photos is overthinking it. Instead of worrying about how you look or whether you're doing it "right," focus on being present in the moment. Forget about the camera and let your love for each other shine through organically. Being present can be hard on a day with so much planning and fanfare surrounding it. But with a bit of intention you can stay present and in the moment on your wedding day.

Movement is Magic: This is probably the number one key to better candid wedding photos. Who says you have to stand still like statues for your wedding photos? Incorporating movement into your poses can add a dynamic energy that takes your candid shots to the next level. Take a stroll hand-in-hand through Portland's picturesque streets, dance like nobody's watching, or steal a kiss under the city lights—whatever feels natural to you.

Connect with Each Other: The most captivating candid photos capture the genuine connection between two people in love. So, instead of worrying about where to put your hands or how to angle your body, focus on connecting with your partner on a deeper level. Look into each other's eyes, share inside jokes, and let your love speak volumes without saying a word.

Trust Your Photographer: Last but certainly not least, trust in the vision and expertise of your candid wedding photographer (that's me!). A skilled photographer knows how to capture those fleeting moments of authenticity without making you feel like you're posing for a magazine cover. So, relax, have fun, and let your photographer work their magic.

Tell a Story With Your Wedding Theme: The best wedding photos are the ones that tell a story so why not go all out with a wedding theme that has a narrative all of its own. Whether it's a colorful Alice in Wonderland backyard wedding or a magical dark fantasy wedding on the fall equinox, a theme can go a long way for amazing candid photos. A theme gives guests and the wedding party more to interact and engage with.

Find the Right Balance: Even if you are in the market for candid wedding photos, chances are you'll still want a few more posed, traditional shots - especially with friends and family. The key is to find the right moments throughout the day when you can take 5 or 10 minutes to grab a few portraits or group shots between the main events. With the right candid wedding photographer, this can happen seamlessly throughout the day. But blocking out a small amount of time for newlywed portraits and group/family photos is always a good idea too. I personally never recommend more than an hour for either of these types of shoots so you spend less time posing in front of a camera. (I lay out more of my wedding photography process in this quick Wedding Photo Guide for PNW Couples)

Embrace the Unexpected: Wedding trends are shifting as we look ahead to 2025 and beyond as more and more couples are opting for smaller, more intimate weddings. This shift away from the huge, meticulously planned out events is allowing couples to scale back and focus more on what really matters. Don't be afraid to let loose on your wedding day and ditch the traditional expectations for something that feels authentic and natural to you. If that means you don't have every moment planned out to a T, that's ok. Prioritize having fun and staying in the moment and you won't miss your agenda.

In the end, the most memorable wedding photos are the ones that reflect the true essence of your love story. Ready to capture your love story in all its glory? Let's chat! Reach out today to learn more about my Portland candid wedding photography services and start planning the epic photo adventure of a lifetime.

Also available in the greater PNW and Montana. Looking to book someone for a travel destination? I'm suitcase and passport ready :)