"You CAN'T be in the center aisle!!"
Vanessa Joy is a wedding photographer and educator helping photographers grow profitable businesses.
If you’ve ever looked at a beautiful wedding photo and thought, “How do photographers capture those natural, romantic moments?” this post is for you. Whether you’re a wedding photographer yourself or just curious about what happens behind the camera, I’m breaking down the process step by step.
The problem this post solves: how to guide and pose clients naturally so your photos feel authentic instead of stiff.
Setting the Scene
A photoshoot isn’t just about snapping pictures, it’s about creating a story. Every little detail matters, from how a bride adjusts her veil to the tilt of her chin.
During this shoot, one of my favorite moments was asking the bride to pause by the window, softly hold her dress, and look away as if lost in thought. That simple adjustment transformed a simple pose into an emotional, story-driven image.
Other highlights? Capturing those small, in-between moments — fussing with her veil, a playful toss, or a fleeting laugh. These unposed interactions often end up being the most memorable photos.
Pro Tips for More Natural Shots
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Posing is Everything → Give clear, visual prompts like “Look up as if you’re walking upstairs” or “Pretend you’re slow dancing.” These directions create natural movement that feels less posed.
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Play with Perspectives → Try unexpected angles, like shooting from above or framing the bride leaning on a railing. A new perspective adds depth and emotion.
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Engage Your Clients → Keep the session fun and light. Compliments, laughter, and encouragement help your clients relax, and that comfort shines through in your images.
Learn More with Photo Insiders
Want more behind-the-scenes education like this? That’s exactly what you’ll find in my Photo Insiders community.
Inside, you’ll get:
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🎥 Exclusive Tutorials → Step-by-step lessons on posing, lighting, and troubleshooting.
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📸 Behind-the-Scenes Access → Watch real shoots with real clients, not just models.
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💬 Community Support → Connect with photographers in our private Discord, share your wins, and get feedback.
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🎙️ Live Coaching Calls → Monthly sessions where I answer your biggest business + photography questions.
Photography is more than just pressing a shutter. It’s about creating experiences, building confidence, and capturing moments that matter. If you’re ready to take your photography to the next level, join us inside Photo Insiders.
