You love photography, but truth be told, you don’t love being IN the photos. You’d much rather take them or look at how beautiful someone elses photos are. The idea of having a professional photographer all up in your grill gives you nightmares. You know your wedding day needs to be captured well and with personality, but the idea of seeing yourself makes you want to run for the hills. I feel you. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve looked at a photo and cringed. I was absolutely terrified of being the center of attention on my wedding day. So I took some of my own advice and put some things in place that guaranteed I would love my wedding photographs. So don’t worry boo, I got you! Here’s my ultimate guide to looking fantastic in your wedding photos!

Hire a Great Photographer

I’m going to start with the most obvious tip and that’s hire a photographer you love! Make sure you’re in love with their work but also their personality. The more comfortable you feel with someone the more comfortable you’ll appear in your photos. We all know that awkward photographer that wants to pose you like you’re at your prom. Don’t hire that guy and you’re off to a really great start! 😉 You’ll also want a photographer who’s style fits your personality. Is your style clean and polished? Then an editorial style may fit you best. Are you creative or appreciate creativity then photojournalism might be up your alley. Find a style that jives with you as a couple and you’ve done 90% of the hard work.

Practice Makes Perfect

Most wedding collections will come with an engagement session. These are a great opportunity to get to know your photographer better but also practice in front of the camera. Pro tip: the first 30 minutes of an engagement session are always awkward. Don’t worry so much about getting great photos at that point, just let the photographer guide you. Engage in conversation & enjoy being close. By the end of the session you’ll have forgotten why you were nervous in the first place and the poses will be second nature!

Pretend the Photographer isn’t There!

How would you interact with each other if it were just the 2 of you? Would you snuggle in close, hold hands, grab a butt cheak, make funny faces? By choosing to focus on each other and your relationship you’ll allow your photographer to get some amazing moments. Those moments will connect you to the photograph in a way that no pose can. It also helps you know what to do with your hands! If you’re staying connected then posing will come naturally.

Pop Dat Hip & Other Practical Tips

There are 5 million things you can do to ensure your photos are flattering. I’ll run through them, but to be honest the most amazing photographs come when you’re completely in love with one another and you let it show. Your photographer should be able to guide you through these next practical tips if they’re nessisary.

1: Appear slimmer -If you’re wanting to elongate your body & look slimmer, pop your hip away from the camera. This is as simple as shifting your weight to your back foot.

2: Slender arms – Put your on your waist (not the hip) this will create space between you & your body giving you beautiful arms.

3: Enhanced Jaw line – If double chins are your nemmisis start by pushing your chin forward then slowly move it down. Make sure it’s just your chin that your moving & not your whole head & upper body. Once you’ve moved your chin relax your shoulders and bam your jaw line will be poppin!