Hate Having Your Photo Taken? How to Feel Comfortable During Couple Portraits
Let’s talk about the part of the day most couples quietly dread: the couple portraits.
You’ve just had your ceremony, your cheeks hurt from smiling, and now someone (hi, it’s me!) wants you to stand in front of a camera and act natural. I get it. Having your photo taken can feel really weird, especially when it’s meant to capture something as personal as your love for each other.
But here’s the good news: couple portraits aren’t about perfect posing or pretending to be models. It’s a little breather from the buzz of the day—a chance to hang out together, catch your breath, and let me do the legwork (literally—I’ll be darting around with my camera while you two have a moment to yourselves).
To keep things relaxed, I usually split your portraits into two short, easy-going sessions—one before dinner, and one just before the dancing kicks off. That way, there’s no marathon photoshoot dragging you away from the party.
In summer, we’ll make the most of that dreamy golden hour light (it’s soft, flattering, and a bit magical). In winter, I’ll bring the drama with some creative night-time shots. Either way, we keep it quick, natural, and nothing that feels overly “posey.
The best thing you can do during portraits? Just go with the flow. There’s no pressure to pose or perform—I’ll guide you gently, suggest spots with great light, and help you feel at ease. You don’t need to know what to do with your hands (who does?!), and you definitely don’t have to be serious unless you want to be.
Whether you’re naturally touchy-feely or more the laugh-it-off type, I’ll follow your lead. This is about capturing you two being you, not turning you into something you're not.
If something magical happens—like an incredible bit of light, a misty sunset, or yes, a full-on rainbow—I might pop over and see if you fancy sneaking out for a quick extra shot. No pressure at all. I’ll probably be buzzing with excitement (I do love good light!), but if you’re deep into a cocktail and a catch-up, you can absolutely tell me to bugger off. It’s your day, after all.
A Few Thoughts for Getting Portraits You’ll Actually Love
You don’t need to do anything special to “nail” your couple portraits—but if you’re feeling nervous, here are a few little ideas that can help things feel more natural (and even fun!).
Embrace the awkward
Feeling a bit silly is totally normal. Laugh at yourselves, whisper something daft, or just talk about how wild the day’s been so far. One of you pulling a massive fake laugh often leads to a real one, and that’s where the good stuff happens.
Don’t skip the snacks
Portraits usually happen around canape hour, and no one looks their best when they’re hangry. Ask your caterer to set aside a plate so you can grab a bite afterwards—or bring a secret stash of snacks. Very pro move.
Stick Together (However That Looks for You)
You’ve just tied the knot, so whatever feels natural between you, go with that. Whether it’s holding hands, walking side by side, sharing a quiet laugh, or just being near each other, there’s no one right way to show connection. You don’t need to perform romance for the camera, just be yourselves, and I’ll take care of the rest.
Go with the weather
Rain, shine, or something in between—we’ll roll with it. I’m fully on board with wellies, brollies, and puddle-jumping if that’s your vibe. And honestly? Some of the most beautiful, dramatic photos happen when the weather refuses to behave.
Make the most of the light
If you’re getting married later in the day or in winter, there might not be loads of natural light left for portraits. Some couples opt for a “first look”, a quick meet-up before the ceremony to grab a few relaxed photos while it’s still light. It’s not for everyone, but it can be a great way to ease nerves and steal a quiet moment before the chaos begins.
At the end of the day, couple portraits really are just a tiny part of your wedding, often no more than ten or fifteen minutes. Some of my couples choose to skip them entirely, and that’s totally valid. But even carving out a few quiet minutes together can be such a lovely reset. It’s a rare chance to slow down, breathe, and actually take in the fact that YOU DID IT!! YOU GOT MARRIED!!!
The rest of the time, I’m all about capturing the real stuff, those honest, storytelling moments full of connection, joy, and the wonderfully unexpected. The portraits are just one chapter in your wedding story.
Looking for a wedding photographer who gets it? Someone who won’t make you pose awkwardly or pull you away from the fun for hours? I’d love to hear about your plans.