Who wouldn’t want to make their wedding day the best day ever? The best day of their life! As you might have guessed, your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and your photos should capture the genuine emotions and moments that make it special. But in an age where Instagram perfection reigns supreme, it’s easy to feel pressure to look perfect in every shot. It’s not even just that; look at old pictures from decades ago; they’re also super staged. Where are the candid shots?
Why is everything so staged with awkward poses (as awkward as prom poses)? Well, here’s the secret: the best wedding photos aren’t about perfection—they’re about authenticity. So, with all of that said, here are some tips to help you stay true to yourself and avoid looking fake or staged in your wedding photos.
Choose the Right Photographer
All right, by all means, this needs to be the first one, so you need a photographer who gets you. It’s best to spend time looking at different photographers’ portfolios and find someone whose style resonates with you.
You have to keep in mind that there are so many different photography styles out there, too. For example, there are some photographers who can only do the generic poses and won’t really capture anything else, while there’s the polar opposite, photojournalistic wedding photography, where everything is candid the whole time (so it’s 100% authentic nonstop).
So, just understand that not all photographers are the same; plus, it’s also a good idea to meet with them beforehand to discuss your vision and see if you click. This doesn’t even need to be in person, but a Zoom call is fine, too. But overall, a photographer who makes you feel comfortable and at ease will capture your true essence. When you feel like you’re hanging out with a friend rather than posing for a stranger, your photos will reflect your genuine personality and emotions.
You Have to Be Present in the Moment
It sounds simple, but one of the best ways to look authentic in your photos is to be fully present on your wedding day. Don’t stress about the camera or try to create perfect moments. Focus on your partner, your family, and your friends. With that all said, you’ll need to laugh, cry, dance, and soak in every moment. When you’re genuinely experiencing the day, your photos will naturally reflect those authentic emotions. The best shots often come when you forget the camera is even there.
Wear Something You Feel Comfortable In
Now, this one is such a big mistake that couples keep making. So, your wedding attire should make you feel like the best version of yourself. Overall, just choose outfits that you feel comfortable and confident in. If you’re not used to wearing high heels, don’t force yourself to wear them all day. If a traditional wedding dress or suit doesn’t feel like you, opt for something that does. When you’re comfortable with what you’re wearing, you’ll feel more relaxed, and your true self will shine through in your photos.
Trust Your Photographer
Once you’ve chosen a photographer you trust, let go and trust their process. They have the expertise to know how to capture your best moments. Don’t worry too much about how you look or what you should be doing. You’ve seen their portfolio, so their photos can’t be that bad, right? So, overall, just focus on enjoying your day and let your photographer do what they do best. The less you try to control the situation, the more natural and authentic your photos will be.
