"From Awkward to Stunning: How to Feel Confident in Front of the Camera on Your Big Day"
- Sasha Hearts
- Apr 11
- 3 min read
Let’s be real — most people feel at least a little awkward in front of the camera. You’re not alone, and you’re not doing anything wrong if that’s you. The good news? Confidence in photos isn’t about being a model. It’s about being present, prepared, and letting your connection shine through.
Whether you're camera-shy or just want to feel your best on your wedding day, this guide breaks it down with zero fluff. Let’s get you from stiff to stunning.
Why You Feel Awkward (And Why That’s Normal)
Here’s the truth: most couples aren't used to being photographed for hours. Add in the pressure of “the biggest day of your life,” and it’s easy to overthink every move.
You’re center stage. Everyone’s watching — it’s unfamiliar territory.
You want to look “perfect.” But perfection isn’t the goal — authenticity is.
You think you need to pose. You don’t. You just need to be yourselves.
Awkwardness usually comes from self-consciousness. The key is shifting that attention away from performance and toward presence.
Mindset Shifts That Make You Photogenic (No Practice Required)
1. Focus on your partner, not the camera.
This is your love story. Look at them, hold their hand, laugh about something only you two would understand. Forget the lens exists — that’s my job.
2. You’re not posing — you’re connecting.
The best photos happen between the poses. A stolen glance, a shared smile, the way you instinctively lean into each other — that’s what makes the magic.
3. Trust your photographer.
You hired a pro for a reason. I’ll give you direction when you need it and step back when the moment takes over. Your job is to enjoy. Mine is to document it just like you're dreaming of.
Pre-Wedding Prep: Confidence Starts Before the Big Day
Engagement Session
This isn’t just a bonus — it’s a warm-up. You’ll learn how I work, get comfortable being in front of the camera, and build trust so by wedding day, you’re not thinking about photos at all.
****P.S. Some packages already include an engagement session, so there's really no risk for you!
Talk to Me
If you’re nervous, say so. If you hate a certain angle or feel weird about something, tell me. Good photography is about collaboration. I’ll meet you where you are.
Practice Lightly
Try a few photos with your phone. Play around. Laugh at yourselves. This isn’t about mastering a pose — it’s about learning that you don’t need to be anyone but yourselves.
Take Care of Yourself
Sleep. Hydrate. Eat something. Stretch. Do whatever makes you feel grounded and confident. That feeling shows up in the photos.
On-the-Day Strategies That Actually Work
Breathe and Move Naturally
Take deep breaths. Keep your shoulders relaxed. Move how you normally would — walk, sway, dance a little. The less you freeze, the more natural you’ll look.
Invite who you want to
This is your big day, sometimes nerves come from having someone judgemental around you (sorry for the hard truth, but I'm here to tell you the uneasy parts too!). So, be mindful about who you invite.
Don’t “Try” to Look Good
You will look good when you’re fully present. Trying too hard makes you stiff. Let yourself feel — the love, the nerves, the joy. That’s what people connect with.
Let Go and Follow the Flow
I’ll direct you when needed — where to stand, where the light is best, what to do with your hands. But the best shots happen in between. Trust that.
Look at what my clients said about working with me.
...and many many more!
I have a way of making you and your partner comfortable in front of the camera - I will guide you through poses seamlessly, and I will make you two giggle and tickle each other (sometimes the silliest things bring out those gorgeous candid smiles, so we will embrace them together!
Real Talk: You’ve Got This
I’ve seen couples go from “we’re the most awkward people ever” to magazine-worthy moments — not because they changed who they were, but because they let themselves be seen.
Your job isn’t to be perfect. It’s to show up, love hard, and let your day unfold. I’ll handle the rest.
One Last Thing…
Confidence doesn’t come from knowing how to pose. It comes from trusting the process, being real with your person, and knowing someone’s capturing it all with care.
So breathe. Be yourselves. And don’t worry — you’re going to look stunning.
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