Your wedding day is a collection of fleeting moments, and amongst them, the often-neglected photo session holds a special place. From familial line-ups to intimate couple portraits, every frame tells a part of your love story. But the question is – how do you make sure that you look your best? Posing for the cameras might not come naturally to everyone, but with a few simple tricks up your sleeve, you can turn your photos from ordinary to extraordinary. Here are ten wedding photography tips that will ensure you and your partner look picture-perfect on your special day.
10 Tips to remember when posing for wedding photos
10 tips to remember when posing for wedding photos
1. Relax and Forget the Lens
One of the keys to a great wedding photo is to look natural and at ease, even with the pressure of the day. It’s normal to feel a bit self-conscious with all eyes (and cameras) on you, but try to take a few deep breaths and focus on the person you’re about to marry. Forget about the lenses zooming in; this moment is about both of you. A relaxed expression and comfortable body language show through in the photos, making them much more compelling.
10 tips to remember when posing for wedding photos
2. Stand Up Straight with Confidence
Good posture is a game-changer when it comes to looking your best in photos. Whether you’re walking down the aisle or posing with your partner, standing up straight and holding your shoulders back not only makes you look more confident but also helps your clothes fall more naturally. This simple adjustment can give you a more refined and elegant look in your photos.
10 tips to remember when posing for wedding photos
3. Avoid Stiffness – Bend Those Elbows and Knees
While good posture is crucial, it’s also important to avoid looking too stiff. Keep a slight bend in your knees and elbows to add fluidity to your poses. This tip is particularly relevant if you’re standing for a long time posing for formal photos or if you’re in a dress with a full skirt – it will prevent your arms from sticking out awkwardly and help maintain a graceful posture.
10 tips to remember when posing for wedding photos
4. Your Best Angles – Pay Attention to Your Chin
No one wants to look like they have a double chin in their wedding photos. To avoid this, extend your chin slightly forward and down. It might feel a little unnatural, but it’s a tried-and-true technique to define your jawline and present your best facial features. Practice this in front of the mirror before the big day, so it becomes second nature.
10 tips to remember when posing for wedding photos
5. Touch Ups, Not In Your Pockets
When it comes to posing for wedding photos, unexpected bulges can distract from an otherwise beautiful shot. Before the photos begin, ensure you’ve emptied your pockets – or opt for a bag or purse to keep your essentials on hand. If you’re carrying too many items, it may cause your clothing to bunch awkwardly, which is particularly noticeable in formalwear.
10 tips to remember when posing for wedding photos
6. Jacket Rules – Button Up or Not?
The classic suit or tuxedo jacket can be a prop or a hindrance in photos, depending on how it’s worn. If you’re wearing a jacket, it’s customary to keep it buttoned up while standing, but you can also open it for a more casual look. Unbuttoning the jacket offers a relaxed vibe, whereas keeping it buttoned can serve as a more traditional and polished touch to your portraits.
10 tips to remember when posing for wedding photos
7. Keep the Accessories Minimal – Save the Hair Ties and Watches for Later
Accessories can say a lot about your style, but when it comes to wedding photography, less is often more. Remove elastic hair ties, large statement jewellery, and smartwatches to maintain a timeless look. If you have piercings, consider subtle options for the wedding day, so they don’t dominate your images. Your photographer will likely work with you to find the right balance for the aesthetics of the day.
10 tips to remember when posing for wedding photos
8. Coordinate with Your Feet – Point To Your Partner!
Subtle footwork can make a world of difference in your wedding photos. When standing or walking with your partner, point one or both of your feet slightly towards each other. It’s a non-verbal sign of the bond between you and adds a layer of intimacy to your photos, even in group shots. Your wedding album will reveal the chemistry of your relationship through these unconscious cues.
10 tips to remember when posing for wedding photos
9. Lean on Each Other – Literally and Psychologically
Physical touch is a powerful way to convey emotion in your wedding photos. Whether it’s a light hand on the small of your partner’s back, or leaning in close for a kiss, these small touches showcase the connection and love between you. They also serve to relax both of you and can result in some of the most heartwarming photos of the day.
10 tips to remember when posing for wedding photos
10. Authenticity Over Perfection – Why You Shouldn’t Over-Pose
It can be tempting to strive for the picture-perfect pose, but sometimes the most beautiful photos are the ones taken in a spontaneous moment. Your photographer will guide you, but it’s important not to ‘over-pose.’ Allow for natural interactions and don’t be afraid to show your personality. The laughter, the stolen glances, and the unscripted moments are often the ones that you’ll treasure most.
10 tips to remember when posing for wedding photos
Remember, your wedding photos are a reflection of your love and joy; don’t get too caught up in the technicalities. These are simply guidelines to help highlight the best version of you. Trust your photographer, and most importantly, trust in the day itself. Your happiness and the emotion of the occasion will be the true stars of your wedding album. Enjoy every moment, and the photos will undoubtedly shine with the warmth and spirit of the day.