Help! I’m awkward in front of the camera!
Today, I want to address a topic that I know a lot of couples dread about their wedding day - being in front of the camera 📸 If this describes you or your partner, hopefully this blog can put your mind at ease just a little.
Here are my top 5 things to keep in mind for those who are nervous about being in front of camera:
1) There is wayyy less 'posing' on your wedding day than you might think
The truth is - 95% of your video will be candid shots (I suspect the same is largely true for your photos). Generally speaking, when it comes to your videographer, they will be like a fly on the wall capturing events and moments as they unfold. The only part of the day which will be choreographed in any meaningful way is your couple portrait shots. So, when you think about it, your photographer / videographer will be with you for roughly 12 hours and the only part where you will likely be conscious of the camera will last about 15-20 minutes. That's not a lot. But if those 15-20 minutes still make you feel anxious, read on..
2) Your photographer / videographer will guide you step by step
"Where should I look?" 'Where do I put my hands?" "What way should I stand?" These are perhaps the type of questions that race through your mind when you think about getting your picture taken. Please know that neither the photographer or videographer will expect you to have done extensive research on how to pose for pictures or videos. Let's be honest, for most of us on our wedding day it is the first time we have done anything close to 'modelling' - your photographer / videographer will be well aware of this.
3) Even your couple shots will be a lot more candid than you think
So many couples actually really enjoy their 15-20 minutes getting portraits together because it gives you a chance to catch your breath, step away from the madness, and actually chat to each other for a bit. The reality is, much of what you’ll be asked to do involves you just pretending like the photographer / videographer are not there and you’re simply chatting to one another. It might be walking and talking or sitting on a bench and having a laugh; but for video in particular, the more natural moments as a couple are the thing that work best.
4) Your couple shots will reflect your personalities
Every couple is different in terms of their personalities and expectations. Some couples want a particular focus on the more 'couply shots' in their video whilst others want a few thrown in and the majority of the video to be guests having fun. Some couples genuinely hate the thought of a quick kiss in front of the camera, whilst other couples need to get a room (seriously though 🤣). All that to say, your photographer / videographer will be able to gauge pretty quickly what sort of vibe you are going for and will press into that. This is always the sort of thing that is helpful communicate to your photographer / videographer ahead of the wedding so they know ahead of time what sort of vibe you would like to go for.
5) If you'd like a test run - consider an engagement shoot with your photographer
Booking and engagement shoot with your photographer will ensure there are absolutely no surprises on your wedding day. The portrait session on your wedding day will literally be a mini version of what you did on your engagement shoot. If you didn't get one and have regrets, you could reach out to your photographer or someone that you know who is into photography and it will give you a bit of a warm up before the big day.
If you or your partner feel nervous about being in front of a camera at your wedding, I hope these tips were somewhat helpful. What other fears do you have as you think about the big day? Let me know in the comments below 👇🏻