The Ultimate Guide to natural wedding photography for camera-shy couples
If you’re a camera-shy couple the thought of having a photographer with you for an entire day might fill you with the shudders. Or perhaps, you’re secretly a very distant relative of Chandler Bing. In which case, I can sympathize massively. Jokes aside, a wedding day is a really emotional and intimate occasion. It’s completely understandable to be a little nervous about having your photos taken.
It might come as a surprise that the majority of my couples are pretty camera-shy. And often tell me how much they hate posing and how terrible they look in photos, challenge accepted! The fact that my wedding galleries are full of joyful and natural photography, movie star confidence or not, is something I’m really proud of. And over the years, I’ve developed lots of ways to put my couples at ease. And even, dare I say it, enjoying having your couples portraits taken. So with that in mind, I’m sharing my guide to beautiful, natural wedding photography for camera-shy couples.
Book a photographer that specialises in candid and natural wedding photography
First and foremost, the right photographer is key to beautiful natural wedding photos, especially for camera-shy couples. Not only do you want to be working with a seasoned pro, but someone you get along with too. There’s absolutely no point in booking a photographer for their gorgeous portfolio if you think they are a complete wazzock. Your wedding day is super special, so book suppliers that you can relax and enjoy yourself around. Because that ease and joy will translate into your photos effortlessly.
Book full day coverage
Your wedding photography is an investment. And I would always recommend booking full day coverage if you’re at all camera-shy. Those couple of hours ahead of the ceremony is the perfect chance for me to put you at ease. So by the time you’re off to get hitched, I’m a part of your gang and you an forget I’m there.
Enjoy yourself!
It might seem obvious, but if you are having lots of fun. And enjoying squeezing your favourite humans, you probably haven’t noticed your photographer snapping away. On the day itself, there is so much to take in and enjoy, it’s really easy to forget about the camera completely. Unless referring back to my first point, you’ve booked the kind of photographer who wields ten cameras, batteries strapped to their chest, and army rolls Rambo style around the reception.
Perfect your wedding day schedule
Planning your wedding day schedule is a fine art. Bored guests aren’t going to enjoy themselves, but keep everyone too busy there’s no time to relax which isn’t much fun either. For me, it’s really important to make sure your photos are about your wedding day and not the other way around. That’s why in the months leading up to each wedding I photograph, I share my advice on how to plan a wedding day schedule for a stress-free day. Organising fun games are a great way to keep people entertained whilst you’re having your photos taken. And keep any requests short and sweet. That way you don’t miss any of the action.
If you’re looking for a creative photographer, I’d love to hear from you. Get in touch to have a chat about your plans and find out if your date is available. But if you’re still feeling nervous about your wedding photos, let me know. I’d love to put you at ease. Or, I found this article for camera-couples, on The Knot useful when we planned our own wedding.