If you are nervous about feeling comfortable in front of the camera on your wedding day, then this post is for you! Your wedding day is one of the most memorable moments of your life, and of course, you want to have stunning photos to look back on. But, if you’re nervous about being in front of the camera, that can make the process feel a little daunting. The good news is that it’s totally normal to feel a little self-conscious, and with a few simple tips, you can feel relaxed, natural, and even enjoy the experience! Here are some tips on feeling comfortable in front of the camera on your big day:

1. Get to Know Your Photographer (and Trust Them!)

The first step to feeling comfortable in front of the camera is building a connection with your photographer. If you feel like a stranger is just there to capture your every move, it can feel a little intimidating. But when you take the time to get to know your photographer—whether through an engagement session, a pre-wedding meeting, or just chatting via email—it can make a huge difference.

Here’s why: A photographer who knows you will make you feel at ease because you’ll feel more like friends than just “client and vendor.” During your first meeting or engagement shoot, be open with them about your nerves and any particular concerns. A good photographer will know how to guide you through poses, help you relax, and create a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Trust that they know what they’re doing, and lean into the fact that they are there to make you look amazing—after all, it’s their job!

2. Practice Posing and Relaxing Before the Big Day

A lot of people feel awkward in front of the camera because they don’t know how to pose or where to put their hands! The good news is that posing doesn’t have to feel stiff or unnatural. A little practice ahead of time can go a long way.

If you’re nervous about posing, try doing a quick practice session in front of a mirror or with a friend. You can also look through other weddings or engagement shoots for inspiration and see what poses you like. I love giving gentle posing prompts during engagement sessions to help couples feel really comfortable and confident. Here are a few tips for looking natural:

• Keep your posture tall: Stand or sit up straight to avoid slouching, but don’t be rigid—think “relaxed elegance.”
• Shift your weight: When standing, put most of your weight on one leg to avoid looking stiff. This small shift can create a more natural stance.
• Smile with your eyes: A great smile can make a world of difference, but it’s not just about showing your teeth. Try to engage your whole face—sometimes called a “Duchenne smile”—which can help make the smile look authentic.
• Walk naturally: If you’re doing a walking shot, take relaxed steps and avoid trying too hard to look “perfect.” A natural stroll will create much more genuine-looking photos.

Practice can take away some of the tension, making you feel more confident when the cameras start clicking.

3. Communicate with Your Photographer During the Day

One of the most important tips for feeling comfortable in front of the camera is to keep the lines of communication open with your photographer throughout the day. If you’re feeling tense or unsure, it’s completely okay to let them know! A good photographer will pick up on your energy and adjust accordingly. I love also sometimes showing the back of the camera to my couples if I feel like they need a little reassurance!

Before the wedding day, talk to your photographer about any specific poses or moments you’re excited about, as well as anything you’d like to avoid. On the day of, don’t be afraid to speak up if you’re uncomfortable with something or if you need a moment to regroup.

You can also ask your photographer to give you little cues or guidance during the shoot. Simple directions like, “Turn your body slightly this way” or “Take a deep breath” can help take the guesswork out of posing and keep you relaxed. The more you communicate, the more the photographer can adapt to your needs, ensuring you feel like yourself and are enjoying the process.

Bonus Tip: Enjoy the Moment

Sometimes, the best way to look great in photos is to stop worrying about how you look altogether. Focus on your partner, your loved ones, and the excitement of the day. If you’re having fun and genuinely enjoying the moment, it’ll show in the photos. Let your photographer capture the real you—laughing, chatting, or just soaking in the joy of your wedding day. This will be a really big key in feeling comfortable in front of the camera on your wedding day. Just being present will allow you to show up naturally like your amazing selves!

Final Thoughts on Feeling Comfortable in Front of the Camera on Your Wedding Day

Feeling comfortable in front of the camera on your wedding day is all about preparation, communication, and a little bit of practice. By connecting with your photographer, practicing poses, and being open to direction, you can feel relaxed and confident as you create beautiful memories. And don’t forget—your wedding day is about celebrating love, so focus on that joy, and the photos will follow naturally!

Are you looking for a wedding photographer near South Bend, Indiana? Reach out here!