Incorporate Movement When Photographing Couples for Natural & Authentic Images
How to Incorporate Movement When Photographing Couples for Natural & Authentic Images | Skyler Maire Photography
Ever felt like your couple looks a little too posed and stiff, even though you’re doing all the right things? I remember when I first started out, I’d have couples stand a certain way but didn’t quite know how to draw out that natural interaction or movement that really brought the image to life. It took time—and a lot of practice—to truly understand how adding just a little bit of movement to your poses can turn an okay image into a magic one.
One of my favorite phrases to use during a session is, “Feels awkward, looks great!” Movement brings photos to life. It helps couples feel less self-conscious and also captures their authentic connection. So today, I’m excited to share some of the ways I incorporate movement when photographing couples to get those natural and authentic images!
Set Your Couple Up For Success
Before we even begin our session, I like to give my couples a little “pep talk.” (I don’t normally call it that, but that’s the best way to describe it!) I let them know that I’ll gently guide them throughout the session, but there will be times when I get quiet and give them space. During those moments, I encourage them to interact with each other naturally as if I’m not even there.
It might feel awkward at first, but it gets easier as we go! I tell them to have fun and enjoy each other’s company, and I usually add something like, “Look, you literally can’t do anything wrong. Just have fun with it!”
You can (and should!) even tell them some of these things in their pre-session prep email. The more transparent you are about how you work with couples—on your website, social media, and email exchange—the more prepared they’ll be when they meet you at the photoshoot.
Incorporating Little Movements into Every “Pose”
I know posing has a bad rep right now, but I personally still use it all the time. Poses exist for a reason—they make people look good! They add fun variety to your images, and most people can recreate a simple pose.
With that said, I like to start by putting my couple into a pose and then adding a little movement. That movement could be as simple as, “Touch their face and trace their jawline with your thumb.” BOOM! Instant connection and a tender photo.
Some of the easiest movements are having them gently dance or sway back and forth. I like to start with these so they get into the habit of continuous movement. For a more playful image, have them tickle each other or blow raspberries on the other’s neck! I’ve even told couples to “stick your tongue in their ear!” which, 9 times out of 10, results in instant hilarity and the most genuine laughter.
Use Bigger Movements As Playful Prompts
When you’re aiming for that hair-flying, movement-filled shot, use bigger prompts like activities or games. Some examples include having the couple play tag (I once asked a couple to play “kiss tag,” where they each tried to kiss the other somewhere on their body before the other could – it was awkward, hilarious, and they had a ton of fun with it, which resulted in incredible images – see below!), running and jumping into each other’s arms, or playing bumper cars.
You can also ask them to dance, spin, or do airplane arms with each other. The options are endless! Which brings me to my last and most important point…
Don’t Be Afraid to Try New Things!
Remember that “kiss tag” idea I mentioned earlier? I had no clue whether it would work, but I asked my couple, “Hey, want to try something fun? I’ve never done this before, but it could be super cute!” They were down, and while it was awkward at first, they had fun with it—and the photos turned out amazing.
So don’t be afraid to experiment! If something doesn’t work, just move on to the next thing. The more you play around with movement, the more naturally it will flow into your sessions.
Final Thoughts: Let Movement Build Connection
Remember, movement isn’t just about getting fun photos (though it’s definitely a bonus). It’s really about building a connection between the couple—letting their personalities and interactions shine through. While it’s important to give direction, leaving space for spontaneity is equally valuable.
I encourage you to take a look at some of your past photoshoots and notice how you already incorporate movement. Then ask yourself, “How could I mix things up or improve?” Confidence will grow with time and practice, so try not to overthink it!
Ready to Take Your Posing to the Next Level?
I hope you found these tips for incorporating movement when photographing couples helpful! I’d love for you to try out some of these movement-based techniques at your next session. If you do, be sure to tag me on Instagram @skylermairephotography so I can see the magic you create!
And one more thing! If you ever struggle with directing your couples during a session, I’ve got a little something to help: my FREE guide, Nine Effortless Poses to Make Any Couple Look Great. It’s packed with foolproof poses to help you create authentic, natural-looking images every time.
and take the guesswork out of posing!
Happy photographing!
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