How to get natural wedding photos that you’re proud to hang on your walls
Four things you can do to get candid, natural wedding photos
Wedding photography is about more than simply capturing beautiful shots of how great you looked; it’s about capturing the emotion of the day so you can remember that excited energy every time you flick through your wedding album or gaze at a framed photo on your desk. My photography style is all about capturing natural moments between couples and their guests, but it can be hard for people to act naturally when they know a camera is near. Here are some of my favourite tricks for getting natural wedding photos that feel like you — not a posed version of you.
1. Look at each other
This might seem obvious, but people have a tendency to look at the camera as soon as one appears. Which makes sense! You want to make sure the photographer catches you at your best with your hair perfectly in place and your head tilted just so.
There will always be time for those photos at weddings, but I like to strike a balance between posed and natural — or aware and unaware of the camera. I always encourage people to look at each other while I’m taking photos, as it helps them relax and forget the camera is there for a moment. These moments are always a lot of fun because people naturally start talking or joking with each other, which elicits laughter and pure, honest smiles — the kind where you can see the sparkle in your eyes.
You can use this super simple trick for any of your wedding photos, whether it’s with your partner, bridesmaids, guests, or parents. It’s a great way to take the awkwardness out of having your photo taken and can help put shyer guests at ease.
2. Get moving
Don’t worry; I’m not suggesting you run a marathon before your ceremony. But adding a bit of movement to your photos is a great way to get natural, unposed images. If you look at vintage wedding photos from hundreds of years ago, the poses can look stiff and awkward; this is because couples had to sit or stand extremely still to get a clear image, as any movement could distort it.
Luckily, technology has come a long way and cameras today can capture a lot more movement. Gone are the days of sitting perfectly still and expressionless as you waited for the shutter to click. Now, your photographer can capture every little detail of your day — including all the in-between moments with your loved ones.
Something as simple as taking a stroll together can add a lot of natural movement to an image. Have fun with it: pack some wine and snacks to enjoy with your wedding party. Try to forget the camera is there and lean into the fun and excitement of the day with your partner and loved ones. Talk, laugh, and look at each other as much as you like. Your photographer will capture these natural, honest moments so you can remember the fun times — rather than any stress, nerves, or awkwardness — for years to come.
3. Sneak some quality time together
Weddings have a lot of moving parts, and it can be hard to find a moment to breathe — let alone enjoy your newlywed bliss! The day can go fast, especially after the ceremony. You’ll be doing a lot of mingling and accepting congratulations from extended family; there will be speeches to enjoy and cake to cut; and that’s usually before the dancing begins!
When I photograph weddings, I like to sneak away with the couple for 10 minutes or so after the speeches and formalities, to capture some of those loved-up feelings. Usually by this time, couples are a bit more relaxed and grateful to enjoy a few minutes together.
If your reception is in the late afternoon or evening, this is also a great time to grab some gorgeous sunset photos when the light is at its most beautiful. Your photographer will know how to make the most of the natural light throughout the day, and will no doubt return a beautiful gallery that encapsulates the changing light from morning to evening.
4. Choose vendors you love
Make your wedding yours by choosing vendors you absolutely love and connect with. Visit a few venues and chat with the owners; choose a location that matches the vision you and your partner have for your wedding, where you can see yourself making wonderful memories.
Get to know your celebrant and photographer, and make sure you connect with them. Share your story with them so they can get to know you as a couple. They’re both an important part of your day, and building that connection before your wedding day means they won’t feel like strangers when it comes time to work together. Take the time to communicate what you and your partner want from the ceremony and reception, and what’s most important to you about your wedding day.
When deciding on catering, florals, stylists, and any other suppliers, look for local vendors that share your values and are as excited about your day as you are. When you connect with the people who are making your vision a reality, it’s easier to get on the same page about what you want — or don’t want. And when you trust them to deliver what they promised, you can enjoy your wedding day without worrying about the little details.
The easiest way to get natural wedding photos is to relax and enjoy it. Make the day one that reflects you and your partner — and the love you share — and you’ll find it easier to act naturally when the camera appears. Remember, this is your day and your photographer is there to help you remember it as it is. If you’re interested in natural, candid photography for your wedding, get in touch and we can chat about it over coffee!
