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The Number One Thing Couples Say Before Their Wedding Day

June 21, 2026

(And Why It’s Not True)

If I had a dollar for every time a couple told me, “We’re awkward in photos,” I’d probably have enough for another camera lens.

Seriously.

Before engagement sessions, intimate weddings, micro weddings, elopements, and even anniversary sessions, I hear some version of the same thing:

“We’re awkward.”

“We don’t know how to pose.”

“My fiancé hates having his picture taken.”

“We’re probably your most awkward couple yet.”

And every single time, my response is the same:

You are not nearly as awkward as you think you are.

The couples you see featured on photographers’ websites aren’t professional models. They’re teachers, farmers, nurses, business owners, parents, and everyday people who simply showed up ready to celebrate a milestone in their lives.

The truth is, beautiful photos aren’t about knowing how to pose. They’re about connection, trust, and being present in the moment.

Remember Why You’re Here

Whether you’re planning an intimate wedding with your closest family members or an elopement focused entirely on the two of you, your day isn’t about performing for the camera.

bride and groom kissing black and white photo

Some of the most meaningful images happen when couples stop worrying about looking perfect and simply focus on what brought them there in the first place: celebrating their marriage.

Hold hands. Laugh together. Take a deep breath. Soak it all in.

When you’re focused on the experience instead of the camera, your photos naturally feel more authentic.

Trust Your Photographer

One of the biggest misconceptions about wedding photography is that you’ll be expected to know exactly how to pose.

bride and groom kissing in front of pond black and white

That’s my job.

Most of my couples have never had professional photos taken together before, and I promise you’re not expected to show up knowing exactly what to do.

I don’t expect my couples to arrive knowing what to do. Throughout your portrait time, I’ll guide you with prompts, movement, and simple direction that feels natural.

You don’t need to memorize poses from Pinterest or practice in the mirror beforehand.

Just show up ready to enjoy your day.

Focus on Your Partner

If you’re feeling nervous, take your attention away from the camera and put it on the person standing next to you.

bride and groom kissing ring shot black and white

Talk to each other.

Share a memory.

Tell an inside joke.

Hold each other close.

The most genuine smiles and reactions often happen in those small, unscripted moments.

Build Extra Time Into Your Timeline

One of the quickest ways to feel uncomfortable is to feel rushed.

When wedding timelines are packed too tightly, couples often arrive at portraits feeling stressed and overwhelmed.

Giving yourself a little extra breathing room allows you to relax, slow down, and actually enjoy the experience.

Some of my favorite portraits happen when couples realize they don’t have to hurry.

One of the reasons I love photographing intimate weddings and elopements is that they naturally allow for a slower pace. Without a packed schedule and a long list of obligations, couples often have more time to be present, enjoy the experience, and truly connect with one another.

Embrace Movement

You don’t have to stand perfectly still and smile at the camera for every photo.

Walking together, twirling your dress, holding hands, leaning into each other, and simply moving naturally often creates photographs that feel effortless and genuine.

Movement helps ease nerves and keeps portraits feeling relaxed rather than stiff.

Let Go of Perfection

The photos couples treasure most years later are rarely the perfectly posed ones.

They’re the moments that feel real.

The laughter after a joke.

The way your partner looks at you.

The wind catching your veil.

The tears during your vows.

The quiet moments in between.

Your wedding day doesn’t need to be perfect to be beautiful.

One of the Biggest Benefits of an Intimate Wedding

One thing I notice again and again when photographing intimate weddings and elopements is how relaxed couples feel.

Instead of spending the day worrying about entertaining hundreds of guests, they’re able to focus on what matters most. There’s more time for meaningful conversations, quiet moments together, and genuine connection.

That relaxed atmosphere naturally translates into photographs that feel authentic and effortless.

When couples are enjoying themselves, it shows.

In fact, some of my favorite images happen during the in-between moments—the walk back to the car, a quiet conversation after the ceremony, or the way a couple naturally reaches for each other’s hand when no one is watching.

The Secret to Great Wedding Photos

The secret isn’t knowing how to pose.

The secret isn’t having a perfect smile.

And it certainly isn’t being a model.

The secret is simply being present.

Trust your photographer, focus on your partner, and allow yourself to experience the day as it unfolds.

When you do that, the result is a gallery filled with images that not only look beautiful—but feel like you.

If you’re planning an intimate wedding, micro wedding, or elopement and feeling nervous about being in front of the camera, I promise you’re not alone. In fact, “We’re awkward in photos” is probably the most common thing I hear from couples before their day arrives.

The funny thing? Most couples leave their session or wedding day saying, “That was actually a lot easier than I thought it would be.”

The good news is that you don’t need to know how to pose, have modeling experience, or feel completely confident in front of the camera.

You simply need to show up, be present, and focus on the person you’re marrying.

As a Southeast Iowa photographer specializing in intimate weddings, micro weddings, and elopements, my goal isn’t just to create beautiful photos—it’s to create an experience where you can slow down, be present, and genuinely enjoy this season of your life. The beautiful photos are simply the result of that.

hello@tashamaephoto.com