Wedding photographers and videographers share their advice.
Photo: Masha Sakhno Photo
Get comfortable with your photographer before the big day. "Building a relationship with your photographer is key. Many professionals suggest scheduling an engagement session, not just to get beautiful photos, but to get used to the camera and learn how your photographer works. It’s the perfect trial run and a great way to ease any photo jitters before the main event." —Cortiella Photography
Consider scheduling an engagement session with your same vendors. "To feel more confident and at ease on your wedding day, I highly recommend scheduling an engagement session with your photographer. Think of it as a fun and relaxed practice run — it gives you the chance to get comfortable in front of the camera, learn how your photographer poses and interacts with clients, and build a natural rhythm together before the big day.
“Consider timing your engagement session with your hair and makeup trial. It's the perfect opportunity to see how your look photographs and get the full pre-wedding experience, while walking away with beautiful images to use for save-the-dates, your wedding website, or just to celebrate this special season of life." —Rachael Crowe, OkCrowe
Photo: ModWedding Studios
Trust your photographer's direction. "The pros know how to guide you. If you're unsure what to do, trust your photographer to give you prompts that feel natural and help bring out your personality. Whether it's movement-based or a simple suggestion to whisper something sweet to your partner, their goal is to help you look and feel your best." —Cortiella Photography
Add movement to your photos. "If you're feeling camera shy, adding movement is the easiest way to feel natural. Walk together, twirl, sway, touch your partner's face, play with your dress, have a chat — anything that gets you out of your head and into the moment will make your photos feel more effortless and organic." —Masha Sakhno, Masha Sakhno Photo
Photo: Masha Sakhno Photo
Focus on each other, not the camera. "The best photos often happen in the in-between moments — when you're laughing together, holding hands, or sharing a quiet glance. One photographer shared, 'I always tell my couples to forget I'm there and just be in the moment. That's when the magic happens.'" —Cortiella Photography
Breathe and be present. "This day is about you and your partner. The more you can ground yourself in the moment — taking in the joy, the emotions, the love—the more your photos will reflect exactly how your day felt." —Cortiella Photography
Photo: Cortiella Photography
Let go of the idea of perfection. "Your wedding photos are meant to capture the emotion of the day, not a perfectly posed version of yourselves. Don't worry about striking a certain angle or holding a pose too long. If something feels awkward, laugh it off! Natural reactions make for the most beautiful, honest images." —Cortiella Photography
Be yourself! "After many years working as a Fashion and Wedding Photographer, I've realized that the most unforgettable photos come from real, genuine moments — when you're relaxed, being yourself, and truly present. Couples come to us because they want more than just pretty pictures. They want something totally unique and authentic, full of candid depth that tells their love story in a way that feels like they're transported back into that moment — something beautiful, real, and polished all at once. We know how to capture those raw, emotional reactions that turn everyday moments into treasured memories." —Isolda Marie Tilson, Lead Photographer of ModWedding Studios
"Here's a little secret: If you're nervous about what to do in front of the camera, just fake your confidence — pretend you're an actor or model if you have to. But the most important thing is not overthinking it. Focus on having fun with your partner, really enjoy the moment, and trust that the camera will catch your genuine love and joy. When you let go and allow yourselves to be fully present, that's when the magic happens naturally." —Isolda Marie Tilson, Lead Photographer of ModWedding Studios
Photo: Masha Sakhno Photo
