How to Look and Feel Natural in Front of the Camera | Tips for Relaxed Photos

Stepping in front of a camera can feel intimidating. Many people worry they’ll look awkward or feel uncomfortable, but I promise—it doesn’t have to be that way! The most important thing you can do is trust me as your photographer. I know how to guide you into natural, beautiful moments. If you’re willing to buy into the process and let go, you’ll walk away not only with stunning images but also with a fun, memorable experience!

There’s a reason the people in my images look so natural: I help them get there! The most common feedback I hear after a session is, “That was super fun and a lot easier than I thought it was going to be!” Here’s how I make that happen.

Step One: Step Into Your Indie Love Film

When we start, I always tell my clients to pretend they’re in an indie love film. Think about those movies—how do they show human connection? One of the biggest ways is through touch.

If you really observe, hands are featured a lot in those films. That’s because touch is one of the most important ways we demonstrate connection as humans. Here’s ways I incorporate touch in my own life:

• When my daughters are having a hard time, I brush their hair off their foreheads with my fingertips.
• When my husband is tired, I rub slow circles on his back.
• When the dog is anxious i’m running my hands through his fur to calm him
• When my grandmother needs steadying I’m holding her hand firmly in mine.

How we touch one another matters. So, as much as possible, I want you to touch each other with intention. Be tender. Soften into one another. Feel what the other person’s skin actually feels like under yours. This isn’t about performing—it’s about being present with your person.

We live such busy lives that we rarely take time to just be with our partner. But right now, you have that time. Welcome the present moment in. Be here now, together.

Step Two: Let Your Eyes Speak

You’ve probably heard the saying, “The eyes are the window to the soul.” Just like with touch, I want you to look at your partner with intention.

Really see them. Take them in.

• What do they look like in this exact moment?
• How many colors are in their eyes?
• What’s your favorite thing about seeing them right now?

This simple shift in focus makes an incredible difference in your photos. When you look at your partner like they’re the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen, it shows—and it makes for the kind of images you’ll treasure forever.

Three Practical Tips for Feeling Natural

Beyond mindset, here are three tangible things you can do to feel and look more natural in front of the camera.

1. Avoid the “Pyramid Hug”

A lot of couples instinctively do what I call the pyramid hug—feet apart, torsos leaning together, creating a disconnected look. Instead, move your feet in! Keep your hip bones connected so your centers of gravity mesh. It instantly makes your connection look (and feel!) more natural.

2. Keep Moving

When people get nervous, they stiffen up—I call this the turtle effect (shoulders up, body locked in place). The best way to combat this is movement! Think of a yoga flow—it’s hard to be stiff when you’re moving through poses.

Apply that idea here:

• Rub your hands up and down your partner’s arms.
• Slow dance.
• Give forehead kisses.

The specific movement doesn’t matter—just don’t stay still for too long. Movement keeps you feeling natural and relaxed.

3. Embrace Prompts, Not Poses

I’m not here to get you into picture-perfect Pinterest poses. Instead, I use prompts to bring out real connection. Think of me as your director in this indie love movie.

For example, I might say, “Wrap each other up and keep one another warm.” I don’t have a specific pose in mind—I want to see how you two naturally fold together in this moment.

Bonus Tip: Stay in the Moment

I move around a lot during sessions, capturing different angles and perspectives. If I’m not giving direction, keep doing what you’re doing! Don’t stop to look at me for instructions—just stay with your partner. The more present you are, the more natural your photos will look.

Let’s Make Magic Together

At the end of the day, feeling comfortable in front of the camera isn’t about doing things “right”—it’s about trusting the process and being present with your partner. If you show up ready to let go, have fun, and embrace the moment, I promise you’ll walk away with images that truly feel like you.

So, take a deep breath, step into your indie love film, and let’s make some magic together.