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

Let’s be honest — very few people feel naturally comfortable in front of a camera.

Most couples tell me right away:

“We’re a little awkward in photos.”

“We never know what to do with our hands.”

“We just want to look like ourselves.”

And I get it — because the truth is, being photographed on one of the biggest days of your life can feel a little intimidating. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to be a model to look and feel amazing in your wedding photos.

With a little preparation (and the right photographer), your photos will feel natural, joyful, and true to you.

Here are my top tips to help you feel completely comfortable in front of the camera on your wedding day — straight from years of photographing couples all over NYC.

💍 1. Focus on Each Other — Not the Camera

This one might sound simple, but it’s everything.

When you tune into your partner — the way they smile, the sound of their laugh, the way they look at you — the camera disappears.

Your connection is what makes the photo come alive, not your pose. I’ll guide you through prompts and movement that help you stay in the moment (think walking, laughing, holding hands), so it never feels stiff or forced.

📸 You’re not “posing,” you’re just being you — together.

⸻

🕊️ 2. Schedule an Engagement Session First

If you’re nervous about being in front of the camera, doing an engagement session before your wedding is a game changer.

It’s a low-pressure chance to practice, get comfortable with my shooting style, and learn how to move naturally in front of the lens. By the time your wedding day arrives, you’ll already know what to expect — and it’ll feel more like hanging out than posing.

Plus, it’s a great way to celebrate your engagement (and get some gorgeous photos for your invites or wedding website!).

⸻

💫 3. Choose a Photographer Who Feels Like a Friend

Your wedding photographer will spend more time with you on your wedding day than almost anyone else — so the connection matters.

When you feel relaxed around your photographer, you’ll automatically look more comfortable and confident in your photos.

That’s why I always spend time getting to know my couples before the big day — learning your personalities, what makes you laugh, and what moments mean the most to you.

💬 When you can be yourself, your photos will reflect that — effortlessly.

⸻

🌸 4. Plan Your Timeline with Breathing Room

Nothing makes people tense up like feeling rushed.

Build a little extra time into your photo schedule so you can pause, take a breath, and enjoy the moment. Whether it’s before the ceremony, during your portraits, or between events, having those pockets of calm makes a world of difference.

I always help my couples plan timelines that work — realistic, stress-free, and designed around natural light (because no one wants to race the sun!).

⸻

💕 5. Embrace Imperfection — It’s Where the Magic Happens

Your favorite photos probably won’t be the perfectly posed ones.

They’ll be the ones where you’re laughing so hard your nose crinkles. The one where your veil flew off. The one where your partner looked at you like it was the first time all over again.

Those imperfect moments? That’s the real story — and that’s what makes your wedding gallery feel alive.

⸻

🌆 6. Remember: You’re Not Performing, You’re Remembering

At the end of the day, your photos aren’t about performing for the camera — they’re about remembering how it all felt.

Your wedding day moves fast, but photography slows it down just enough to hold onto every look, laugh, and tear.

So breathe, trust your team, and stay present with each other. I’ll take care of the rest.

⸻

✨ Final Thoughts

Feeling comfortable in front of the camera isn’t about learning how to pose — it’s about finding a photographer who helps you feel at ease being yourself.

And when that happens, the photos take care of themselves.

If you’re planning your NYC wedding and want images that feel genuine, relaxed, and full of emotion — I’d love to be part of your story.

📩 Let’s connect →Contact me

Let’s capture your day the way it truly felt — beautiful, real, and uniquely yours.