The anticipation of a couples photoshoot often brings a mix of emotions – excitement, nervousness and maybe even a little anxiety. While the experience can be enjoyable and rewarding, coming in with a bit of preparation can help put people at ease. Here are some tips for feeling comfortable in front of the camera for couples. And don’t worry if you forget in the moment – A good photographer will remind you when necessary. 🙂

Keep things light.

After all, this photoshoot should be fun! Remember that you’re there to have a good time and create memories with your partner. So don’t take yourself too seriously and try not to take the photos too seriously either. Enjoy the moment and use it as an opportunity to laugh and make each other smile!

Keep your body moving!

Adding movement makes a world of a difference!  It adds energy and personality to photos while creating beautiful shapes that catch the eye of viewers. Don’t be afraid to move around – try swaying your hips, walking in different directions, or even dancing together if you feel comfortable doing so! It may seem silly at first, but these movements will bring more authenticity to your photos that wouldn’t have been there otherwise.

Focus on your partner and shower them with love and affection.

If you’re anything like me, you probably feel SUPER awkward in front of the camera and never know what to do. When in doubt, keep your focus on each other rather than the camera lens! Look into their eyes, talk and laugh together, snuggle up close or just simply enjoy each other’s presence – whatever makes you happiest as a couple! This will help create images full of love and emotion that truly reflect who you are as partners.

Add props.

This is completely optional, but if you’re feeling super nervous about what to do, adding props can add an extra layer of personality to your photos. Consider bringing something meaningful along with you such as a custom blanket or piece of jewelry that holds special significance (ahem, engagement ring)! Or you can simply plan to stop for some ice cream during your session to add some fun and flavor to your images!

 Have fun with location choice.

If possible, pick a location for your shoot that has meaning for both of you; somewhere special where perhaps you shared an amazing date night or got engaged/married? Or maybe the neighborhood where you first moved in together? The options are endless!

Dress comfortably.

Make sure you both feel comfortable in your clothing choices and stick with what works well together color-wise. But also have fun with it and consider individual style preferences too – don’t forget this is about both people expressing themselves through fashion choices! Avoid trends that may come across cheesy (like matching outfits) but feel free to accessorize if it helps express who you are together as a couple.

By keeping these tips for feeling comfortable in mind during your couples photoshoot, I’m confident you’ll end up with stunning images that reflect all of the beauty and love between yourself and your partner! Questions? Drop them in the comments below!

If you enjoyed this post, you may also love:

Ari and Dan’s Unique Architectural Engagement Session

Lauren and Billy’s Engagement Session at The Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco

Best San Francisco Bay Area Photography Locations