Your love feels specific to you - but you find that photos of the two of you don’t capture your spark. And let’s face it: posing as a couple for photography can feel weird.
Whether it's the first time or the hundredth, that “okay, now smile” moment often leads to stiff smiles and awkward hands.
But here’s the thing — capturing real, authentic moments has little to do with “posing” and everything to do with the context outside of the pose.
Studies show that nearly 60% of people feel a bit self-conscious in front of a camera (Gavin Jowitt).
Makes sense, right? We’re used to seeing “perfect” images on social media, so when it’s our turn, that pressure builds. But that’s where I come in, here to help you loosen up, laugh, and capture what really matters.
Here are my top tips to feel more like you when you’re in front of the camera:
1. Pick a Meaningful Location
The best photos happen when you’re in a space that feels like a piece of your love story. According to environmental psychology, familiar places can ease anxiety and promote comfort (Suen, 2021, The Positive Psychology People).
Think about it — if date night for you looks like a sunset picnic, hiking to a scenic overlook, grabbing cocktails, or even bowling, these places already feel like you. When we shoot in these spots, your connection shines, bringing out the natural chemistry between you.
2. Trust Your Photographer (aka - The Vibe Check)
Having a photographer who feels like a friend makes a huge difference. Studies show that when people trust the person behind the lens, they experience less self-consciousness and a greater sense of comfort (Positive Psychology People).
Think of the difference between handing your phone to a stranger to take a photo of you on vacation and when your best friend takes your photo... the difference in your body, the way you feel, your openness for creative poses or expressions - you get what I mean right?
Before we commit to working together - we will meet virtually to see if I'm the right photographer for you. I fully believe that it's my job to understand you. That way, you’re not just posing for some stranger, but enjoying an experience that lets your real personalities shine.
3. Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera
It’s not about performing for the camera; it’s about losing yourselves in a moment together. Find ways to make it fun for you both — tell a story, share a favorite memory, or just look each other in the eyes. Eye contact isn’t just romantic; research shows it strengthens emotional connection and reduces self-awareness (Shin et al., 2017) Forget about the camera, and focus on each other — that’s where the magic happens.
4. Get Moving!
Movement brings life to your photos and melts away those stiff feelings in a snap. Movement reduces anxiety and heightens mood, whether it’s a playful twirl, a hand-in-hand stroll, or a goofy dance. Moving helps shift the focus off of “posing” and instead lets you have fun, making your natural chemistry come alive in every shot.
5. Let Go of “Perfect”
We’re not here for perfect — we’re here for real. Perfection is overrated, and in the world of photos, it’s those authentic, sometimes messy moments that stand out.
Studies even show that images with natural emotions are perceived as more appealing and memorable than polished poses.
So if you’re laughing too hard, accidentally tripping over each other, or doing something spontaneous, that’s perfect. Those moments, quirks and all, capture who you are together.
6. Trust the Process
My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable to just be. When you feel safe and unpressured, your real expressions come forward. This is a collaboration, where the photos become more than just images — they’re pieces of your story, captured authentically. Posing as a couple is so much deeper than just photography - I often overhear the couples I photograph get emotional and share how much they love each other during the process. Photography is such a powerful connection tool and the more we create a session that feels authentic to you, the more authenticity will come through in the final product.
Final Thoughts
Your relationship is one-of-a-kind, and that’s what we want to capture.
Lean into each other, laugh without worrying about what’s next, and embrace all the moments that make your connection beautifully you. Together, we’ll create images that feel as genuine and unforgettable as your love.
Looking for photos that reflect how you feel about each other? Schedule a consultation call for us to get to know each other a bit and start making it happen!
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