"We're just not photogenic" is something we hear constantly, and it's almost never actually true — what's usually happening is nerves, not a lack of photogenic-ness. Here's what genuinely helps if the idea of a full session in front of a camera makes you anxious.
Remember: this is our job to manage, not yours
You don't need to know how to pose, what to do with your hands, or how to find good light. That's entirely on us. Your only job is to show up and interact with your partner — we'll guide everything else.
The first 10 minutes are always the hardest
Almost everyone feels a little stiff at the start of a session. This is completely normal and it passes — by the middle of the session, most couples have forgotten the camera is even there. We plan for this by starting with easier, movement-based prompts rather than jumping straight into posed portraits.
Talk to each other, not the camera
The moment you stop trying to "perform" for the lens and just talk, laugh, or tease each other the way you normally would, the photos immediately look more natural. We'll often ask a question or prompt a conversation specifically to get you looking at each other instead of us.
It's okay to laugh at the awkwardness
If a pose feels silly or you both start laughing at how strange it feels, that's genuinely a good sign, not a bad one — real laughter photographs beautifully, and it breaks tension fast.
A drink beforehand can help
If it's appropriate for your session and you're both comfortable with it, a coffee or a casual drink before you start can take the edge off nervous energy without affecting the shoot itself.
Trust the process
Even couples who are convinced beforehand that they'll hate every photo are very often thrilled with their gallery afterward. Nerves rarely show up in the final images the way people fear they will.
Still feeling nervous about it?
Tell us honestly when you book — we're happy to plan extra time to ease in, or talk through what would help you feel more comfortable. Get in touch any time.