10 Ways to Look and Feel Proper Relaxed in Your Wedding Photos (Even if You’re Camera Shy)

Right then, let’s be honest. Most of us aren’t used to having a camera following us around all day. Unless you secretly moonlight as a supermodel (in which case, fair play), the idea of being the centre of attention can feel a bit… intense.

But here’s the good news: you don’t have to “perform” or nail some stiff, awkward poses to get wedding photos you’re chuffed with. As a Lancashire wedding photographer, I’ve worked with loads of couples who start off saying, “We’re awful in front of the camera.” By the end of the day, they’ve completely forgotten I’m even there…and that’s just how I like it. My whole approach is being a friendly shadow, blending in and catching the real stuff.

So if the thought of a camera makes you nervous, here are 10 simple ways to relax, enjoy yourselves, and get photos that look completely you.

1. Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera

Forget about me, honestly. Hold hands, whisper something daft, sneak in a kiss. Those little unscripted moments always look the most genuine, and they’ll be the ones you treasure for years.

2. Keep Moving

Standing frozen thinking “what do I do with my arms?” is where awkwardness lives. Walk, twirl, laugh, swing your bouquet about, a bit of movement makes everything look and feel natural.

3. Don’t Forget to Breathe

Sounds daft, but loads of couples hold their breath when they’re nervous. One slow, deep breath drops your shoulders, softens your face, and instantly makes you look more relaxed.

4. Trust Your Photographer

This bit’s on me. My job is making sure you feel proper comfortable, not staged or stiff. I’ll give you gentle prompts so you’re never stuck. You just bring the love and the laughter…I’ll handle the rest.

5. Embrace the Giggles

If you get the giggles, don’t fight it. Nervous laughter looks brilliant in photos. It’s genuine, full of joy, and usually ends up being a couple’s favourite set of shots.

6. Try an Engagement Shoot

If you really want to warm up to the camera, an engagement shoot is a game changer. It’s like a dress rehearsal for your wedding photos, so on the big day you’ll know exactly what to expect. Plus, you get some cracking relaxed photos of the two of you before the wedding.

7. Pick a Location That Feels Like You

Lancashire and the Ribble Valley are full of gorgeous backdrops, rolling hills, rustic barns, cobbled streets. But the real trick is choosing somewhere you actually feel comfortable. If you feel at ease, you’ll look at ease.

8. Forget the “Perfect Pose” Myth

Pinterest might give you ideas, but the best photos come from being yourselves. No copying strangers online. No awkward recreations. Real moments always win.

9. Slow It Down

When we do couple portraits, there’s no rush. We’ll take a walk, pause for a cuddle, let things happen naturally. Slowing down makes you relax… and that’s when the best photos happen.

10. Remember What It’s All About

At the end of the day, it’s not about the camera. It’s about marrying your favourite person and celebrating with your favourite people. The photos will always shine if you focus on that. And honestly, I swapped life as a forensic scientist for this, because standing in a lab doesn’t come close to hanging out with couples on their best day.

Ready to Feel Comfortable in Front of the Camera?

If you’re planning your wedding in Lancashire, Clitheroe, or anywhere across the North West and you’re worried about being in front of the camera, you’re exactly the kind of couple I love working with.

Let’s have a proper natter and create photos that feel relaxed, genuine, and completely you. [Get in touch here] and let’s chat about your wedding plans.