How to Look Natural in Wedding Photos (Even If You Hate the Camera!)
Relaxed, Natural Wedding Photography That Feels Like You
Not everyone feels comfortable in front of the camera, and that’s okay! If the idea of posing for wedding photos makes you nervous, you’re not alone. Many couples worry about looking stiff, awkward, or overly posed in their wedding pictures.
At Swanky Wed, we specialise in documentary-style wedding photography, capturing real, unscripted moments without forced posing. Whether you’re getting married in Oxford, the Cotswolds, or beyond, our goal is to make sure you look and feel completely natural in your photos.
If you’re camera-shy, don’t worry—this guide will show you how to look relaxed and confident in your wedding photos, even if you usually hate being in front of the lens.
1. Choose a Photographer Who Makes You Feel Comfortable
One of the biggest factors in looking natural in wedding photos is feeling at ease with your photographer. If you feel awkward, it will show in your images. That’s why it’s essential to choose a photographer whose style aligns with your personality.
✔ Look for a documentary-style photographer – This approach focuses on candid, storytelling images instead of traditional, posed shots.
✔ Have a pre-wedding chat – A quick Zoom call or in-person coffee meet-up helps break the ice before the big day.
✔ Engagement sessions help – A pre-wedding shoot can help you feel more comfortable and get used to being photographed.
💡 TOP TIP: When browsing wedding photographers in Oxford, Oxfordshire, and the Cotswolds, pay attention to their portfolios. Do the couples look relaxed? If yes, that’s a good sign!
2. Forget the Camera Is There
The best wedding photos happen when you’re not thinking about the camera. Instead of focusing on where to look or how to pose, just be present in the moment.
What We Do:
- We use a quiet, unobtrusive approach, capturing moments as they naturally unfold.
- We won’t ask you to pose awkwardly or hold forced smiles.
- Instead, we’ll gently guide you into relaxed interactions that feel natural.
💡 TIP: Focus on your partner, your guests, and the joy of the day—not the lens.
3. Keep Moving & Stay Engaged
One reason traditional wedding photos can feel stiff is because they rely on static poses. Instead, movement creates natural, relaxed images that feel alive.
✔ Walk hand-in-hand with your partner – Moving naturally creates fluid, organic images.
✔ Laugh, chat, and interact – Forget about looking perfect and just enjoy the moment.
✔ Do something together – Twirling, hugging, or even sharing a quiet moment together makes for stunning photos.
💡 Our TIP: Instead of standing stiffly, imagine you’re on a romantic date—it helps your body language look natural and effortless!
4. Focus on Each Other, Not the Lens
Many couples feel camera-shy because they’re too focused on how they look. The easiest way to look great in photos? Stop thinking about the camera and focus on each other!
✔ Talk about something funny – A genuine laugh always looks better than a forced smile.
✔ Have a private moment – Whisper something sweet or funny to your partner.
✔ Look at each other, not the camera – This makes your connection feel stronger in photos.
💡 GREAT TIP: If you feel awkward, take a deep breath, relax your shoulders, and enjoy the moment—you’re getting married!
5. Trust Your Photographer or Videographer & Enjoy the Day
The best wedding photos happen when couples let go and trust their photographer. You don’t need to worry about whether you’re standing at the right angle or if your hands are in the perfect position—that’s our job!
✔ We guide you subtly when needed – No awkward posing, just small, natural adjustments.
✔ We capture candid moments that feel real – The in-between moments are where the magic happens.
✔ We help you feel confident – Your job is to enjoy the day. Ours is to make sure you look incredible in your photos.
💡 NICE TIP: Your wedding is about love, connection, and celebration—not about being a model. Be yourself, and your photos will reflect that!
Real Couples, Real Moments
Still worried about looking awkward in photos? Check out our Wedding Photography Portfolio to see how we capture real, natural moments for couples across Oxford, Oxfordshire, and the Cotswolds.
Looking for a Relaxed Wedding Photographer in Oxfordshire & The Cotswolds?
If you want wedding photos that feel natural, effortless, and truly ‘you’, let’s chat! At Swanky Wed, we create candid, documentary-style wedding photography and cinematic wedding films, perfect for couples who want to focus on their day, not the camera.
Enquire Today – Let’s create wedding photos that feel like you!