Top Tips for Combatting Wedding Photo Nerves
Nervous in front of the camera? Me too! In fact, I’m not sure I’ve met many couples that don’t feel at least a little bit awkward and camera shy on their big day. It’s totally normal, and I’m here to help. Here are my top tips for tackling those wedding day photo nerves.
GET TO KNOW YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
It makes sense that you’d feel more comfortable with a friend than a stranger, right? So take the time to get to know your photographer a little before your wedding day. That doesn’t necessarily mean inviting them over for dinner or out to lunch, BUT a few friendly emails back and forth or even a phone call or two can work wonders in building trust in your relationship. Follow them on Instagram, get to know their work and their style and don’t be afraid to reach out to them with any questions or concerns. The more comfortable you feel with your photographer, the more relaxed you’ll feel in front of the camera.
FORGET ABOUT THE CAMERA
It might sound obvious, but try not to pay attention to the camera. My style of photography is documentary style, meaning my role is to be in the background, unobtrusive but always working to capture you in the most natural way. I’m there to catch the genuine laughter, the quiet romantic moments, all the tears and all the joy. I might offer some gentle direction if you need it, but mostly I’ll just leave you to it and capture you being yourselves.
HAVE A LAUGH
My most loved photos are the ones that capture pure joy, so I’ll always try to catch you laughing! We might play a few little games to take your mind off the camera and get the laughter rolling, and nervous giggling always has a way of transforming into a round of joyful belly laughs, so go with it!
My goal is always to help my couples feel comfortable, relaxed, and present, and I must admit, by the end of our couples portraits (when you’re blissfully newlywed!) most people feel so comfortable they’d happily keep going! If only they didn’t have an epic party to get to!
SHARE YOUR FEARS!
If you feel uncomfortable, say so! I promise you there is no fear too silly or too big to overcome. Your photographer is there to help you, and there are so many things they can to do to encourage you to let your hair down and have some fun on the day. I know I’ve certainly got a few little tricks up my sleeve to get my couples feeling more relaxed!
Trust me when I tell you, you won’t be the first or the last person to feel a little anxious and awkward when having your picture taken. Chances are all the relaxed and happy looking couples you’ve been spying in your photographer’s portfolio started off just as nervous as you are.
KEEP IT MOVING
As you know, I’m not one to capture overly posed or staged photos. Apart from the family portraits, it’s rare that I’ll even ask you to look directly at the camera! So when it comes time to get your couple portraits taken as newlyweds, you’ll notice we’ll spend a lot of our time moving. Casually walking hand in hand, chatting and catching up on the joy of your day, it all helps you feel more relaxed and takes the pressure off what to do with your body.
For more tips and tricks on tackling wedding photo nerves, or if you have any other questions, feel free to get in touch anytime at hello@jeremyblode.com or via the contact form.