Camera Shy Wedding Photography: Will My Photos Still Look Natural?

"We hate having our photo taken." Honestly, if I had a pound for every time a couple told me this, I'd be very rich by now!:)

So if you feel awkward in front of a camera, please know you're definitely not alone. Most of my couples tell me they're camera shy, and it's one of the most common worries I hear when people are looking for a wedding photographer.

The good news? You don't need any modelling experience, a list of poses or a perfect smile. Your wedding photos can still look completely natural, relaxed and like you. That's exactly what camera shy wedding photography is all about.

How camera shy wedding photography works with me

Most of your day is captured naturally

For most of the day, I blend into the background and capture everything as it happens. The ceremony, the hugs, the laughter, guests catching up. You won't be asked to stop and pose every five minutes, so you can just get on with enjoying your wedding.

You don't need to know how to pose

When you do need a bit of help, like during your couple portraits, I'll give you simple, gentle prompts. Nothing awkward or forced, just little things that help you relax and be yourselves together.

Portraits can be a breather

Your couple portraits don't need to be long at all. They can actually be a lovely five or ten minutes away together, to breathe and take it all in before heading back to your guests.

Group photos are quick and organised

I'll gather everyone and work through your list, so the group photos are done and out of the way and you can get back to celebrating.

What my camera shy couples say

Honestly, some of my favourite reviews have come from couples who were dreading having their photos taken.

"We usually hate photographs of ourselves and having them taken, and were almost dreading that part of our wedding. Steph really made us feel at ease for our pre-wedding photoshoot and at our wedding!" Charlotte & Ethan, Harefield Barn

"As a couple that avoid cameras at all costs, we were really not very hopeful of getting any decent pictures of our big day however, Steph managed to capture it perfectly!" Ziggi & Gareth, Devon

"I normally hate having my photo taken and always feel awkward posing, but she made everything feel so natural, relaxed and completely effortless." Marjorie & Alistair, Winkworth Farm

A few little tips if you feel nervous

• Look at each other, not the camera. Some of the most natural photos happen when you're just chatting, laughing or having a little moment together.
  

• Keep moving. Walking, holding hands or having a cuddle feels much less awkward than standing still.

  
  

• Think about a pre-wedding shoot. It's a lovely way to get to know me and get comfortable in front of the camera before the big day. It's definitely not essential, but lots of camera shy couples find it helps.

  
  

• Tell me you're nervous! There's absolutely no need to hide it. Knowing how you feel helps me make everything as easy and relaxed as possible.

  
  

Camera shy wedding photography in Devon, Somerset and the South West

Your wedding should feel like a wedding, not one long photoshoot. My job is to help you feel comfortable, capture your day exactly as it feels and let you enjoy every moment with your favourite people.

If you're planning your wedding in Devon, Somerset, Bristol, the Cotswolds or anywhere across the South West and feel a bit nervous about your photos, I'd absolutely love to hear from you:)

You can have a look at my packages or get in touch here.