Los Angeles Wedding Photography Tips for Natural, Fun Photos

Tips for Couples

Dec 5

Most couples walk into photo time thinking it’s going to feel awkward, stiff, or like a weird school picture day for adults. But wedding photos don’t have to be stressful. With the right approach, they can actually be one of the most relaxing parts of your day. How often do we get to be the center of attention and ham it up to the camera? Take those reins, and here are some tips to not only have fun, but get better images!

Here are five simple ways I make photos fun, natural, and totally you.

1. Skip the Stiff Poses — Keep It Moving

No mannequin vibes here. Instead of sticking you in rigid poses, I give you simple prompts that get you laughing, moving, and interacting with each other.
Think: “Walk toward me like you’re on your first date again,” or “Whisper the dumbest thing you can think of.”
It loosens things up fast and creates images that feel real. Leave the hardcore posing for headshots and modeling. Enjoy the moment with your loved one and the images will tell the rest!

2. Build Buffer Time Into the Timeline

Nothing kills the vibe like feeling rushed. When we plan your schedule, I always create extra breathing room. That way you’re never sprinting between moments, and the photos feel easy instead of stressful.

You want to make sure you get all the images you want, but also that your time for the day is limited. Planning ahead and making slots with some wiggle room will make sure you get the images you want AND not feel like you’re rushing to do the next thing.

I break my most important shoots into three easy blocks: Bridals, Family, and Couples portraits. Having everyone together and fresh in the day at the start gets those images all taken care of before we all start having fun and dressing down. Family Portrait time is where we can focus on everyone together and making sure we get all the photos grandma wants on her fridge this year. And lastly, take time for you and your newlywed to run away from the crowd and enjoy a few images of just each other, having some calm before getting back to the party!

3. Choose Locations That Actually Match Your Vibe

This couldn’t be more important! Well, I know the first thing you’re going to say is budget… budget… budget. But all budgets can find a location that can fit your vibe! It just takes a little hunting. It’s not just the place you’re going to be spending your special day, but it’s going to effect your photography and in the mood of the images that you cherish forever. Make sure you give your location an extra bit of time before you make a decision.

Depending on your location….

If you’re outdoorsy, we’ll find a quiet spot with trees.
If you’re bold and artsy, we’ll hit a wall with great texture or color.
If you just want something private and calm, we’ll sneak away from the crowd.
When you feel comfortable in the space, the photos look effortless.

4. Keep the Wedding Party Shots Short and Fun

The wedding party doesn’t want to stand still forever — so I don’t make them. I keep direction clear, move fast, let everyone be themselves, and get you all back to the party. Quick. Easy. Fun.

Making sure you let folks know ahead of time that images will be taken at a certain time reminds them and also keeps them from starting to swap out heels and undo ties that might slow things down. This also helps make sure no one runs off when we need you for that big group photo! Letting them know will make things smoother, and then let them out and about to enjoy the evening!

5. Take a 10-Minute Escape Together

My favorite moment: stealing the two of you away during golden hour.
It gives you a breather from the chaos, allows you reconnect, and usually ends up being the most natural photos of the whole day. No pressure — just the two of you soaking in the moment.

Not only is this the most creative for me, but I feel like it helps the couple as well have a moment to relax, finally enjoy a snack or a drink, and get a moment to process all that’s been going on. And for me as a photographer, I’m not just trying to give you great images: I’m trying to capture the feeling of the moment. When you can take a moment to relax, get your mind off everything but the person you just put a ring on, it allows me to give you moments that last for a lifetime.