Top 5 Tips For Feeling Comfortable in Front of The Lens.

Lets talk about five ways I help my clients feel comfortable in front of the camera. First up is starting with a video chat. It’s a great way to build a connection and get to know each other before i document your love story. During this call, we’ll chat about your vision for the session, ideal locations, your chosen date, outfit ideas, and my approach to photographing couples. It’s also a chance for you to see if I’m the right fit as your photographer. If we’re planning your wedding, the conversation will include all the details surrounding your day, timeline, and what to expect. A video chat is the perfect time to ask any questions and ease any nerves. When you trust your photographer it becomes so much easier to relax and be yourself in front of the lens.

One of my favorite tips to share with clients is: Keep moving! Movement helps shake off the stiffness and creates natural, candid moments that feel true to you. I often guide couples into poses that involve walking, swaying, spinning, or playing with each other. Stiffness can feel awkward, but movement brings joy and life to your photos.

For example as you walk together, try adding some playful hip bumps, Swaying your arms, or doing a little twirl. Don’t be afraid to laugh, be silly, or talk with each other during your session, it eases any nerves and helps you feel connected. Some of the best giggles come from chatting about how awkward poses feel (and yes, I totally encourage that, it’s part of the fun!).

Other ideas? Whisper something ridiculous in your partners ear, try a spontaneous dance move, or compete to see who can make the other laugh first. The more fun your having, the more your photos will feel like you.

Tip #3 Focus on each other, not the camera.

The more you connect with one another during your session, the more authentic and heartfelt your photos will be. Instead of worrying about where to look and how to pose, tune into your partner. Hold hands, play with each others fingers, steal little kisses, or whisper something sweet (or totally goofy) in their ear, whatever feels natural to you.

I also love playing music during sessions, especially songs that are meaningful to you as a couple. It helps set the tone and create a moment that feels more like a memory than a photoshoot. When your laughing, swaying to your favorite song, or wrapped up in each others arms, the connection becomes real, and that’s what makes the magic happen!

The more you lean into your love and let go of the camera, the more raw, and real your photos will feel.

Tip #4 Wear Something That Feels Like You!

One of the best ways to feel confident and comfortable during your session is by wearing something that feels true to who you are. While I often recommend solid colors, especially earth tones or neutrals, to help your outfit pop beautifully in natural settings, the most important thing is that you feel good in it.

When you feel like yourself, it shows. Coordinating colors with your partner can create a nice visual flow, but don’t stress about perfectly matching. Instead, focus on wearing something that reflects your personality and connection as a couple. Love boots and a cozy sweater? Go for it! Prefer flowy dresses, denim, or something a little quirky? Yes, please!

Bonus Tip: Avoid stiff or uncomfortable clothing, if your constantly adjusting or tugging at your outfit, it can pull you out of the moment. Layers, textures, and movement, friendly pieces are always a win.

Your photos should reflect you, not a version of yourself that doesn’t feel right. So, dress in a way that makes you feel amazing, and your confidence will shine through every shot!

Tip #5 Embrace The Awkward, It’s Where The Magic Happens.

I love using silly or awkward prompts during sessions. Sure, I might get a few confused or funny looks when I say something like; “Hold hands, wave your arms around, and go in for a big hug!”, but trust me there is a reason for it!

Prompts like that shake off the nerves, break the ice, and lead to real, unfiltered laughter. Just like in this photo, their faces lit up with genuine smiles, and that pure joy shines through.

These playful moments are where the magic happens, so, don’t worry about looking perfect, embrace the weird, silly, and the unexpected. Whether it’s a goofy dance move, a fake model runway walk, or shouting your favorite pizza topping mid-spin, the goal is to feel something, not just pose. And when your having fun, the photos become uniquely you!

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over time, it’s that no two sessions are ever the same. Each one brings its own vibe, energy, and personality, that’s what makes them so special!