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First of all, let's get one thing straight... Having someone snap photos of you while you look lovingly into your partner's eyes isn't exactly something you do every day. So it's completely and totally normal to feel a little apprehensive about it. That's why today's blog post is dedicated to the peeps who don't feel natural in front of the camera, where we're giving our 4 best tips to great photos regardless of feeling awkward or being nervous.
TRUST YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
Having a good relationship with your photographer will do wonders. Finding someone who you feel comfortable with, can have a laugh with, and who gets your vibe can be the difference in having photos you love. Always communicate with your photographer about how you feel when you're in front of a camera... If they're aware, they can navigate the shoot waaay easier, with your feelings in mind. Try to remember that they've photographed hundreds of people & strangers, and likely dealt with someone who felt way more awkward and nervous than you, but still successfully shot a beautiful wedding from it! They're pros at making you laugh, and trying different angles and poses that will make you feel natural and relaxed. Trust your photographer!
PRE-WEDDING/ENGAGEMENT SHOOT
Some people question whether a pre-wedding shoot is worth it. As professional wedding photographers, we can firmly say that YES, it absolutely is!! This is especially important and worthwhile if you're feeling nervous about being in front of the camera. It gives you & your photographer time to get to know one another in the context that your wedding day will be in. It's an opportunity to naturally practice poses you're comfortable with and help you to build more trust in your photographer. Feedback from pre-wedding shoots is key; what did you love? What would you rather give a miss? Do you prefer the 'fun shots' to the 'lovey coupley' ones? This will help your photographer GREATLY in tailoring your day to make sure your wedding photos include what you really love.
AVOID OVER-PRACTICE
What do we mean by this? We mean overdoing the practice in the mirror, or in test photos together... This can do the opposite of your goal and actually contribute to looking more stiff and overly planned-out in your photos! Taking inspiration from Pinterest and wedding blogs is great, but like all great things, only in moderation. You'll see way better results by going with the flow and letting the shots come naturally. (Plus, you'll enjoy your day more by not over-focusing on the 'right' poses!)
TIMING
Having enough time booked in the day for photos is always so important. But this doesn't mean you have to have a massive block in the middle of your day booked out to stand in front of the camera. We like to break our couple shots up into smaller sessions throughout the day to save you getting bored, and keeping it fun and natural. We feel you can always tell in pictures when a couple has been having their photo taken for too long! Another great benefit to breaking it up is making the most of the different light and moods that the day provides to keep the shots varied.
So there they are - our 4 best tips for feeling and looking your best in your wedding photos, regardless of how you may be feeling.
We hope this has helped you feel a bit more at ease about your photos, and feel free to drop us a message with any more questions!
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Photos by Alt Wedding Co
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