06/25/2025 Your wedding day is filled with real emotions, genuine moments, and spontaneous joy. But when the camera comes out, it’s not uncommon for couples to feel self-conscious or stiff. The goal of any good photographer is to capture your authentic selves—and that begins with helping you feel natural, relaxed, and confident in front of the lens.
Here are some expert tips to help you look and feel your best in your Wellington wedding photos.
When you trust your Wellington wedding photographer, you’ll feel less pressure to “perform” and more free to just be yourselves.
2. Book an Engagement or Pre-Wedding ShootA great way to get comfortable in front of the camera is to schedule an engagement session before the big day. You’ll learn how your photographer works and get a feel for posing that looks and feels like you.
It also builds confidence. You’ll know what angles flatter you and what to expect during your wedding photos.
3. Focus on Each Other, Not the CameraWhen it’s time for couple portraits, try to forget about the camera altogether. Look at your partner. Whisper inside jokes. Hold hands. Laugh naturally.
Photographers love capturing these unscripted moments of connection—because they’re real, raw, and romantic.
4. Keep Moving, Even SubtlyStanding still and posing can feel awkward. Instead, move naturally:
- Walk together hand-in-hand
- Dance slowly during a quiet moment
- Play with your veil or bouquet
- Kiss on the forehead
5. Embrace the ElementsWellington is known for its breeze, hills, and ever-changing skies. Rather than fighting the weather, let it become part of your story.
A wind-swept veil, moody clouds, or sunlight breaking through the trees can all add beauty and authenticity to your wedding photos.
6. Breathe and Take Your TimeIt’s your day. There’s no rush. Deep breathing calms nerves and relaxes facial muscles. If you're feeling stiff, take a moment, breathe, and reset.
Professional photographers will gently guide you into flattering poses that don’t feel forced. Trust the process.
7. Wear What Makes You Feel ConfidentThis goes beyond just your dress or suit. Everything from shoes to hair and makeup plays a role in how you feel.
Choose attire and styling that reflect your personality and make you feel like the best version of yourself. When you feel good, it shows in every photo.
8. Laugh Often, Even at YourselfOne of the best ways to loosen up is to laugh. Whether it's a nervous giggle or full-on belly laugh, it creates warmth and connection.
Your photographer for wedding day coverage will likely be watching for these spontaneous bursts of joy—so don’t hold back.
9. Trust Your Photographer’s DirectionEven when a pose feels silly or unfamiliar, trust your photographer. They know how to position you for the best light, angles, and composition.
Sometimes a candid moment happens right after a posed shot—those few seconds in between can be magic.
10. Stay Present in the MomentForget about perfection. Let the day unfold as it will. Focus on your partner, your guests, and the meaning of the day.
Natural beauty comes from presence—not perfection. A relaxed, joyful couple makes for unforgettable images.
Final ThoughtsLooking natural in your wedding photos isn’t about learning to model—it’s about being yourselves and trusting your photographer to tell your story.
With the right guidance, a relaxed mindset, and a touch of Wellington’s charm, your photos will be as timeless and authentic as your love.

At A Wedding Story, we’re honoured to be the wedding photographer Wellington couples turn to for heartfelt and timeless wedding imagery. Our mission is clear — to document real emotions, meaningful connections, and natural moments through relaxed, elegant wedding photography that truly reflects …