Written by Devon wedding photographer – Lee Maxwell Photography
Not everyone feels comfortable in front of a camera, and that’s completely normal. In fact, the majority of couples say they feel awkward about being photographed in everyday life, let alone on a day as emotionally charged as their wedding. The good news is this: you don’t need to be confident, practiced or “good at photos” to end up with images you genuinely love. With the right approach and a little preparation, camera shy couples can have some of the most natural, heartfelt portraits of all.
Choose the Right Photographer—They Set the Tone
Your photographer will influence your comfort level more than anything else. It’s not just about their portfolio; it’s about how you feel around them. A relaxed, personable photographer can help dissolve nerves simply by being someone you trust. That’s why it’s worth arranging a call or video chat during your research stage. Hearing their voice, talking through the day and getting a sense of their personality builds confidence long before the wedding. On the day itself, this familiarity makes it far easier to be yourself, knowing the person behind the camera genuinely understands you.
Pick the Right Time of Day for Portraits
Timing plays a huge role in how comfortable you’ll feel. Most couples are naturally more relaxed later in the day, once the key moments – like the ceremony and speeches – are behind them. Choosing a moment after the wedding breakfast, while guests are stretching their legs or heading to the bar, helps keep the atmosphere calm and unhurried. This is just one example where hiring a coordinator really pays off, helping you and the suppliers align to create these pockets of time whilst guests are entertained and looked after. With the big emotional milestones complete, your shoulders drop and the portraits become less of a performance and more of a chance to enjoy ten quiet minutes together.
Step Away From the Crowd for Privacy
Even the most confident people can feel self-conscious when dozens of guests are watching. Taking your portraits a short walk away from the main celebration removes that pressure instantly. Whether it’s a garden path, a quiet lane, or just around the corner of your venue, that small bit of distance creates space for comfort. Without an audience, you’re free to reconnect with each other, settle into the moment, and forget that a camera is even present.
Don’t Worry About Looking at the Camera
One of the biggest myths about portraits is that you need to look directly into the lens. For camera shy couples, this can be the moment where nerves kick in. The reality? Some of the most beautiful images happen when you don’t look at the camera. Looking at each other – laughing, leaning in,
walking arm-in-arm – creates genuine connection that feels natural rather than performed. Trust your photographer to guide you; they’ll know when a candid moment is perfect and when a gentle prompt might help bring out the emotion in the frame.
Focus on the Experience, Not the Result
The final and often most important piece of advice is to shift your attention away from “How will I look?” and toward “How do I feel right now?” When you focus on being present, with your partner, with the moment, with the reality of your wedding day, the photos naturally follow. A good photographer will take care of posing, light, composition, and timing. Your only job is to take a breath, hold onto the person you love, and enjoy a few quiet minutes together. When you let go of the pressure to perform, your photos stop being a task and start becoming a memory.
If you need help selecting the right photographer a Wedding Planner can help recommend options to help you find the right photographer to suit your personalities and vision. Get in touch with Kept Weddings for further support with capturing those special moments on your wedding day.
