Most couples feel awkward in front of the camera—but you don’t have to fake it to get authentic, soul-stirring wedding photos and video. With the right approach, photographer, and mindset, your true connection can shine on camera without ever saying “cheese.”

What “Natural” Really Means in Wedding Photography

Let’s get this straight: “natural” isn’t about ignoring the camera or pretending you’re a professional model. It’s that in-between magic that happens when you forget the pressure, lean into each other, and let your personalities take center stage.

Think:

• A quick laugh over an inside joke

• A quiet glance exchanged during your vows

• That little moment when you're adjusting a boutonnière or wiping away a tear

Great wedding photos aren’t about pageantry—they’re about truth. The best photographers and videographers know how to create space for those moments to unfold without demanding them.

Why Your Story Matters More Than Any Pose

Instead of worrying about whether your foot angle is “flattering,” shift the focus inward.

Ask yourselves:

• What’s our natural chemistry like?

• Are we playful? Tender? Laugh-out-loud goofy?

That’s the energy your photographer and videographer want to tune into. That’s the story worth capturing.

This is why engagement sessions matter so much—they’re less about curated content and more about learning your rhythm as a couple. The result? More comfort, more connection, fewer awkward smiles (we promise).

Movement Over Posing: Where the Magic Lives

When you’re told to “freeze and smile,” the result is almost always stiffness. But movement? That’s where your sparkle lives.

Here are some tried-and-true prompts we love:

• Walk toward each other and talk about your honeymoon dream

• Whisper the silliest thing you can think of in their ear

• Adjust their outfit or brush their hair back

• Slow dance to your song—even without music

These moments let you focus on each other, not the lens. And your real reactions—the giggles, the soft glances, the comfort—become pure cinematic gold.

You Don’t Have to “Ignore” the Camera (Because That’s Weird)

Pretending the camera isn’t there? Not only is it hard—it just creates a new kind of pressure. Instead, think of your photographer like a good friend with a really great eye and a silent shutter.

Great professionals know how to meet the moment. They’ll guide subtly when needed, then melt into the background when it counts. Your job? Stay in the moment, with each other. That’s where the best shots live.

Your Personality Is the Secret Sauce

Here’s the warmest truth we’ve learned: the most emotional, memorable wedding photos and video don’t come from flawless lighting or perfect hair. They come from truly showing up as yourselves.

• Are you tender and romantic? That’s gold.

• Are you silly and full of chaotic good energy? We love that.

• Are you introverted and soulful? Beautiful.

No matter your vibe, it’s 100% photographable. All you need is to embrace it.

Practice Makes Comfortable (Not Perfect)

This isn’t about mastering the perfect selfie routine. It’s about getting comfy in your own skin in front of a lens.

Try this:

• Snap a few photos each week just doing life together—making pancakes, walking the pup, bingeing a show

• Get used to being seen, not as “picture-perfect,” but as yourselves

This mini-photo practice builds ease and comfort that'll carry into your big day.

Your Wedding Day Is a Story—Tell It Honestly

Your wedding isn’t a posed photoshoot. It’s the story of your love, your quirks, your once-in-a-lifetime moments. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s connection.

Let’s help you tell that story the way it deserves: with heart, with ease, and with total authenticity.

📸 Ready to create wedding photos + film that look and feel like YOU? Let’s start planning something extraordinary. Reach out to the How Lucky team today.