How to Feel Comfortable in Front of the Camera on Your Wedding Day

Your wedding day is one of the most exciting days of your life, filled with joy, love, and a whirlwind of emotions. But for many couples, there’s one thought that lingers in the back of their minds: “What if I feel awkward in front of the camera? I’m not good at posing.”

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. As a wedding photographer, I’ve worked with dozens of couples, and one of the first things they often say to me is, “We’re not great at posing” or “We feel nervous having our photo taken.” The truth is, almost no one feels like a natural model — and that’s absolutely fine. Your photographers job isn’t to turn you into something you’re not. Instead, it’s to capture the real you: the laughter, the tears, the quiet moments, and all the love in between.

So how do you feel relaxed and comfortable in front of the lens on your big day? Here are my top tips, gathered from years of experience photographing weddings of all styles — from intimate register office ceremonies to country estate celebrations.

1. Choose the Right Photographer for You

Feeling at ease starts long before the camera is even out. One of the biggest factors is choosing a photographer whose style and personality you connect with. Do you want someone who blends into the background, capturing natural, candid moments? Or someone who gives lots of direction and poses?

I specialise in a relaxed, documentary-style approach, which means I don’t force stiff poses or staged smiles. Instead, I capture genuine interactions — the way you glance at each other during the vows, the laughter when a joke is shared, or the proud tears of a parent. If you feel that your photographer understands your vision and vibe, you’ll naturally relax in their presence.

2. Have a Pre-Wedding Chat

Meeting or chatting with your photographer before the big day is a game-changer. This doesn’t have to be a formal meeting — it could be a phone call, video chat, or a coffee. The goal is simple: to get to know each other. I am a wedding photographer based in Surrey but I travel all over the South of England. It’s therefore not usually possible for me to physically meet most couples. However, I will have multiple video and audio calls with the couple before teh big day. The initial conversation is for both parties to see if they are a good fit for one another.

When you’ve had a chance to talk through your story, your plans, and what matters most to you, it helps build trust. On the wedding day, instead of feeling like a stranger is pointing a camera at you, you’ll feel like a friend is there documenting your memories. I’m the realxed, chatty type and I don’t really let anythign phase me. There is almost always a solution to any problem.

3. Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera

One of the simplest ways to forget about the lens is to focus on your partner. Hold hands, whisper something silly, or simply take a moment to breathe together. When you’re concentrating on each other rather than the fact that someone is photographing you, the connection and emotion shine through in the pictures.

I often encourage couples to walk together, chat, or laugh during their portraits. This creates movement, spontaneity, and natural smiles — so much more flattering than standing stiffly with forced grins.

4. Embrace the Candid Moments

Not every photograph has to be perfectly posed. In fact, some of the most treasured images come from unscripted, candid moments — the flower girl spinning in her dress, your best friend cracking a joke, or your grandparents holding hands.

When you allow yourself to simply be in the moment, rather than worrying about how you look, your photos will reflect genuine joy. Remember, your photographer’s eye is trained to find flattering angles, beautiful light, and authentic emotions. Trust that process.

5. Do a Pre-Wedding or Engagement Shoot

If you’re particularly nervous, booking an engagement shoot can work wonders. It gives you a chance to practice being in front of the camera in a low-pressure setting. Many couples tell me they feel much more confident on the wedding day because they’ve already experienced how relaxed the process can be. It doesn’t even need to be with your wedding photographer, or though this would be ideal. You can book a different photographer or get a friend to take images of you both.

Plus, you’ll end up with some beautiful pre-wedding photos that you can use for save-the-dates, wedding websites, or simply to frame at home.

6. Don’t Worry About Posing Perfectly

Here’s a secret: you don’t need to know how to pose. That’s my job. I’ll gently guide you into flattering positions that still feel natural, whether that’s adjusting your angle slightly towards the light, suggesting where to put your hands, or prompting a playful moment.

Think of me as part photographer, part cheerleader, and part friend. My goal is to help you look your best without you even realising you’re being posed.

7. Surround Yourself with Supportive People

Your wedding day is about joy and celebration. If you’re surrounded by people who make you laugh and feel loved, your comfort in front of the camera will come naturally. Bridesmaids fixing your veil, groomsmen cracking jokes, family members hugging you — all these interactions create beautiful moments that are easy to photograph.

8. Trust Your Photographer’s Experience

When you’ve chosen a professional who has photographed hundreds of weddings, you can relax knowing they’ve seen it all before. From tricky lighting in barns to unpredictable weather in garden ceremonies, I’ve learned how to adapt quickly and creatively.

That experience means you don’t have to stress about “getting the shot” — that’s my responsibility. Yours is simply to enjoy your wedding day.

9. Remember: Imperfections Are Beautiful

Your wedding day won’t be a photoshoot — it’s real life, with all its little quirks. Maybe the wind catches your veil, the confetti gets stuck in your hair, or someone makes you laugh so hard you snort. These moments are pure gold because they’re real. Don’t worry about looking “perfect” in every frame. The beauty lies in authenticity.

Final Thoughts

Feeling comfortable in front of the camera isn’t about being photogenic or knowing how to pose — it’s about trust, connection, and allowing yourself to enjoy the day. When you choose a photographer who understands you, takes the time to get to know your story, and helps you feel at ease, the nerves melt away.

Your wedding photos should be a reflection of your love, your personalities, and the unique story of your day. My approach is all about capturing those fleeting glances, bursts of laughter, and quiet moments you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

So if you’re worried about being camera-shy, know this: you don’t have to perform. You just have to be you. Your photographer will take care of the rest. Get in touch!