You Want Beautiful Wedding Photos But Hate Posing
If that sounds like you, you’re not alone. In fact, most of the couples I work tell me exactly that when they first get in touch. My entire approach is built around capturing beautiful photos for people who don’t like to pose.
You don’t have to fake anything or be someone you’re not. You absolutely can have photos you love without feeling awkward or over-posed.
What “Unposed” Really Means
There are countless natural, unscripted moments during a wedding day that make for genuinely beautiful photographs—exchanging vows, the first kiss, confetti tosses, or simply moving from one part of the venue to another. These instances allow me to capture genuine emotions without you even noticing the camera.
But most couples still want a few lovely pictures of just the two of them, looking their best in a nice setting. You might have seen other people’s couple portraits but maybe you thought, “That’s nice… but I’d feel ridiculous doing that.” I get it!
Often, I see couples in standard wedding poses that are meant to look romantic but don’t always fit the couple. It’s not that the poses don’t work they just don’t work on that particular couple. If it’s not something you’d naturally do, the whole thing can feel a bit off. Sometimes, I look at those pictures—even when I don’t know the couple—and sense the awkwardness. If I feel that, I imagine the couple probably do too.
"Both my husband and I feel self-conscious with photos, but Gary’s warm and reassuring approach made all the difference."
—Karen and Steve
"Gary, these are amazing! We are crying! We honestly can't thank you enough, not only for the fantastic photos but for how comfortable you made us feel. We aren't naturals in front of the camera but wow you have done an amazing job."
—Leanne and Dave
My Approach: Natural Moments in A Relaxed Setting
That’s where Couple Time comes in. I usually suggest we take just 15–30 minutes away from the wedding party—not to pose stiffly, but to give you a few minutes together and to create something a bit more composed, yet still totally relaxed.
I won’t be giving you instructions like “chin up, head to the left, hold that smile.” Instead, I’ll guide you to a spot with good light and a nice background, then let you two just be yourselves. I might say something to make you laugh or ask you to do something small and simple. That moment—that look between you, that shared smile—is what I’ll capture. I am shooting through these moments to capture that spontaneity - this is totally the opposite of setting a pose and having you fix a grin on your face (agony!).
"These photos are incredible. You've got everyone in the family crying. This is a gallery of absolute magic. We couldn't be happier, thank you so much! You have no idea what these mean to us and the family."
—Nicole and Ashley
What if you're Not A Touchy-Feely Couple?
No problem at all. Quite a few people aren’t comfortable with public displays of affection, and many don’t like being the centre of attention. That’s absolutely fine. The photos will still be gorgeous because they’ll reflect you.
It’s not about putting on a performance. It’s about capturing something genuine, in a way that’s flattering, relaxed, and real. I’ve found that when people feel at ease—when they feel safe and not under pressure—they actually enjoy this part of the day. It’s often the only time the two of you get to be alone for a few minutes.
Think Of Couple Time As A Little Escape - Just For You!
Though most people think of me as an extrovert, at heart I’m actually quite introverted. Wedding days can be full on and I really understand my clients who get exhausted from being the centre of attention all day. That’s why you should think of Couple Time as the perfect excuse for some alone time, away from the crowd. I promise, it’s actually fun and most of the time I just want you to be you, so even though I am taking your photos, it’s actually a pretty chilled, fun time. It’s a moment for you both to connect and enjoy an (almost) private moment before returning to the crowd and the party.
How To Get Natural, Beautiful Photos Without The Cringe
Here’s how I ensure your photos are real, relaxed, and never awkward:
I work around your comfort zone. Whether you're confident or camera-shy, my approach adapts to suit you.
We embrace natural moments. The ceremony, confetti toss, and candid interactions—all offer genuine moments without forced poses.
Couple Time is short and sweet. We step away briefly, have a bit of fun, and create something relaxed and beautiful. The moment I sense you’ve had enough, we stop.
No awkward posing. I won’t tell you where to put your hands or make you hold a grin. I’ll set the scene, then let the moment unfold.
You won’t feel exposed. You’ll never be on show or forced to act like someone you’re not. It’s about the real you.
You’ll actually enjoy it. Really. You’ve just got married—what better excuse for a quiet, happy moment together?
If this sounds like your kind of wedding photography, you’re exactly the kind of couple I love to work with. Feel free to get in touch—or just keep browsing to get a feel for how I work. The main thing to know is: you don’t have to perform to get beautiful wedding photos. You just have to be yourselves.
"As a couple, we don’t feel comfortable posing for photos, Gary made us feel at ease, he blended in with our guests and that has resulted in some amazing photos."
—Victoria
YOUR LONDON BASED DOCUMENTARY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
If you're looking for more than just posed photographs, if you want your wedding day to be documented authentically, capturing real emotions and heartfelt connections – then you've found your documentary wedding photographer. Get in touch and let's create memories together. Send your enquiry and you'll be able to download a free copy of my very useful Wedding Guide.
