Relaxed Wedding Portrait Ideas for Couples Who Hate Posing
Let’s get one thing straight: wedding portraits don’t need to be stiff, awkward, or take hours out of your day.
Some of the most emotive, genuine, joy-soaked images I deliver come from moments that felt more like hanging out than posing. And that’s the whole point.
Over the years, I’ve fine-tuned a set of low-pressure, connection-driven prompts I use with my couples. These aren't about performance—they’re about presence. Real conversations, spontaneous reactions, honest connection. That’s where the gold lives.
Here are five of my go-to portrait prompts that help couples relax, have a laugh, and actually enjoy being photographed.
1. The Walk & Talk
I ask couples to take a slow walk and talk about their favourite moment from the day so far. That might be the first look, the chaotic bridal prep, or the moment they locked eyes during the ceremony. Whatever it is, this simple prompt pulls them into the now—with real smiles, cheeky glances, and movement that feels effortless.
It’s not about the perfect shot. It’s about capturing their energy.
Bonus Tip : When walking, don’t look at me or the camera - focus on each other or your surroundings. This creates more emotion and connection between you in the photos.
2. The Outfit Whisper
This one gets couples close - physically and emotionally. I’ll ask the couple to whisper their favourite thing (or biggest surprise) about their partner's wedding outfit. Could be how damn good they look, a hidden detail that made them smile, or just a cheeky compliment. No need to pose - the natural reactions say it all.
These little exchanges? They tell the story far better than a staged shot ever could.
Bonus Tip : If you want to say ‘Holy sh*t you look hot' this is highly encouraged…
3. The Big Embrace
I will get the couple walking toward me, not looking at the camera, just laughing, talking, being them. And when they get close? I cue them to go in for a BIG hug - like they haven’t seen each other in weeks. I want arms flBonusying, genuine smiles, big laughs.
It sounds chaotic. And it is. In the best possible way.
Bonus Tip : The bigger the better, want to lift your partner in the air and spin them around? DO IT!!
4. The Quiet Moment
This one’s softer. I ask the couple to stand close, sync their breathing, and just be together. No talking, no posing - just stillness. It slows everything down and gives the couple a rare moment of calm amidst the whirlwind.
From the outside it might look like nothing’s happening. But from behind the lens? It’s everything.
Bonus Tip : Focus on syncing your breathing for 10 breaths, it will make you feel more grounded and in the moment.
5. The First Dance (Private Edition)
Before the couple do the big first dance in front of their guests, I often sneak them away, play their song, and let them run through it - just the two of them. There’s no pressure, just laughs, cuddles, and usually a few tears. And because it’s private, they get to feel the moment before the performance.
Bonus? It makes the actual dance less scary. And the photos? Chef’s kiss.
Bonus Tip : Let me know your first dance song, I’ll bring the speaker and we can bring the moment to life.
So, if you’re not into stiff posing or fake laughs... you’re in the right place!
Every couple is different. That’s why my approach is flexible, responsive, and built around you. I’ll guide you when you need it and step back when you don’t. No cringe poses, no endless photo sessions - just real moments, captured honestly.
Want this energy for your wedding day?