No posing, no problem: How to get natural, candid wedding photos you’ll actually love

Here’s the truth: we all feel awkward in photos (unless maybe you’re a model or a double Leo). But for most of us, it takes a while to get comfortable in front of a camera. And if you’re getting married, you definitely don’t have extra time to worry about looking natural while being documented.

That’s where candid wedding photography comes in—less about stiff poses and more about the real, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments that tell the story of your day.

Here’s how to make the most of it, whether you’re camera shy or just want wedding photos that feel like you:

Embrace Your Unique Story: The secret sauce to natural wedding photos? Stop trying to look like someone else’s Pinterest board.

Let go of what you think wedding photos should look like and lean into who you are as a couple. Do you two roast each other nonstop? Great. Are you all about the quiet eye contact and soft hand squeezes? Love it. Whether your vibe is goofy, chill, spicy, or all of the above, that’s the magic we’re trying to bottle up.

Live in the Moment: One of the biggest mistakes couples make when trying to “look natural” is… trying too hard. Candid photos work best when you’re fully in the moment—not when you’re overthinking where to put your hands.

And yeah, being present on a day with a packed timeline and a million emotions is hard. But if you build in small breaks to breathe, let go of the pressure to perform, and soak up what’s actually happening around you, the photos will follow. And with a bit of intention you can stay present and in the moment on your wedding day.

Movement is Magic: Want candid wedding photos that look and feel alive?

Move. Seriously.

Whether it’s dancing down the aisle, walking hand-in-hand through downtown Portland, twirling in your reception outfit, or stealing kisses between toasts—motion brings energy. It softens your body language and gives your photographer something to work with beyond just “smile at the camera.”

Connect with Each Other: The most captivating candid photos capture the genuine connection between two people in love. So, instead of worrying about where to put your hands or how to angle your body, focus on connecting with your partner on a deeper level. Look into each other's eyes, share inside jokes, and let your love speak volumes without saying a word.

Trust Your Photographer: Trust in the vision and expertise of your candid wedding photographer (that's me!). A skilled photographer knows how to capture those fleeting moments of authenticity without making you feel like you're posing for a magazine cover. So, relax, have fun, and let your photographer work their magic.

Tell a Story With Your Wedding Theme: A killer theme isn’t just for aesthetics—it gives people something to interact with. And interaction = incredible candid moments.

Whether it’s a whimsical Alice in Wonderland backyard bash, a retro disco elopement, or a moody fall equinox wedding in the woods, building a vibe your guests can lean into will lead to more genuine reactions and photos that tell a cohesive, unforgettable story..

Find the Right Balance: Even the most laid-back couples usually want a few traditional group shots—especially with family. And that’s totally fair.

The key is not letting those shots eat into your whole day. Block out 10–15 minutes here and there. I’ll guide you through them quickly and painlessly, so you can get back to dancing, drinking, and doing the things you actually want to remember.

Embrace the Unexpected: Weddings are unpredictable. Your timeline might shift. Your uncle might cry unexpectedly. Someone might spill a drink on your dress, and the photos will still be iconic.

As more couples opt for smaller, intentional celebrations and micro weddings or elopements, there’s more room to focus on what matters—connection, experience, joy. Let go of perfection. Make room for spontaneity. That’s where the real memories live.

The most memorable wedding photos don’t come from posing perfectly. They come from feeling fully. Being there. Laughing, crying, dancing, kissing, tripping over your dress a little—because that’s real life.

Want more advice on how to have a wedding you'll actually enjoy? Check out this guide for planning the most fun wedding ever.

If you’re looking for candid wedding photography in Portland, the PNW, Montana, or wherever your love story takes you—I’m your person. Let’s plan the kind of wedding photos that don’t just look good, but feel like you.

Reach out today and let’s celebrate your love.